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In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. Department of State has announced a severe retrogression in immigrant visa availability in the August 2023 Visa Bulletin. This sudden development has significant implications for those waiting to obtain their green cards.
Retrogression Explained
Retrogression refers to the backward movement or regression of the cutoff dates in the Visa Bulletin. It means that the waiting time for certain visa categories has increased or that the doors have temporarily closed for certain individuals. In simple terms, if your priority date falls after the listed cutoff date for your visa category, you may face delays in obtaining your green card.
Impact on Immigrants
The August 2023 Visa Bulletin brings with it an unfortunate setback for many immigrants eagerly awaiting their turn to acquire legal permanent residence in the United States. This retrogression affects several family-based, employment-based, and diversity visa categories.
Family-based visa applicants may experience a delay in their visa processing, as the cutoff dates have moved back significantly. This means that family reunification could be postponed for those looking forward to being with their loved ones in the United States.
This retrogression also affects applicants for employment-based visas in the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories. The longer waiting times can lead to uncertainty and challenges for individuals and employers who rely on skilled workers from overseas.
Exploring Options
It’s crucial for those who are suffering from the severe retrogression in the availability of immigrant visas to stay informed and look into alternative options. This might include seeking legal advice, exploring other visa categories, or considering adjustments to immigration strategies.
Remember that while retrogression can be disheartening, it is a temporary setback. Visa availability typically fluctuates from one month to another, so imonitor future Visa Bulletins for any updates at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin.html
Staying Informed
The U.S. Department of State regularly publishes the Visa Bulletin to keep applicants informed about visa availability and priority dates. Make sure to visit their website regularly to check for updates on your visa category and priority date. New visa numbers become available in October of each year so the retrogression might improve substantially at that time.
Additionally, consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the complex immigration process and offer tailored advice based on your unique circumstances.
This article is provided as an educational service and is not legal advice. Consult with an attorney for your specific circumstances. For a comprehensive evaluation of your immigration situation and options, you are invited to call us at 214-393-4917 text us using our chat box, or complete our contact form.