The Department of State’s August Visa Bulletin has been released. For the first time in recent memory, the Family-based Second Preference, covering the spouses and minor children of lawful permanent residents, is “current.” This means that, while there may still be processing delays, in August, visas will be available on a “current” basis for eligible immigrants in this category. For individuals in this category, this represents a very substantial change and may mean the difference between legal immigration status and being out of status. For more information on the filing of family-based applications for permanent residence, please contact us.
In addition to changes in the family-based categories, the August bulletin shows substantial progress in the Employment-based Second Preference for India. However, the bulletin shows no forward movement in the Employment-based Third Preference, for holders of bachelor’s degrees and skilled workers, and the cut-off date remains at January 1, 2009. This means that persons with “priority dates” from on or before January 1, 2009, may proceed with the final steps in the green card process; if your case was initiated after that date, then you are still waiting for a visa number to become available.
Please contact us with any questions or concerns regarding your case, and we will continue to keep you updated with changes in immigration law.