The Department of State has released the February 2026 Visa Bulletin, showing significant movement in several employment-based categories.
Employment-Based Categories
EB-1 (First Preference)
- Worldwide: Current (no backlog)
- China: Advanced 3 months
- India: Advanced 2 months
EB-2 (Second Preference)
- Worldwide: Current
- China: Advanced 4 months to April 2020
- India: Advanced 2 months to June 2012
EB-3 (Third Preference)
- Worldwide: Current
- China: Advanced 5 months to September 2019
- India: Advanced 1 month to March 2012
Family-Based Categories
Movement also seen in family-sponsored categories:
- F1 (Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens)
- F2A (Spouses and children of LPRs)
- F2B (Unmarried adult children of LPRs)
- F3 and F4 categories
What This Means
Priority date advancement indicates:
- More visa numbers becoming available
- Shorter wait times for pending applications
- Opportunity to file adjustment of status
- Progress toward green card approval
Two Date Charts
The bulletin provides:
- Final Action Dates: Determines when cases can be approved
- Dates for Filing: Determines when applications can be filed
USCIS announces which chart to use monthly.
Next Steps for Applicants
If your priority date is current:
- Check with USCIS for filing chart determination
- Gather required documents
- File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) if eligible
- Prepare for biometrics and interview
Retrogression Risk
Be aware:
- Priority dates can move backward (retrogression)
- File promptly when dates become current
- Monitor bulletin updates monthly
- Consult with immigration professionals
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