Visa Bulletin explained: EB-1 and EB-2 dates
Every month we explain the State Department's Visa Bulletin for the green card categories our clients use: EB-1, which includes the EB-1A, and EB-2, which includes the national interest waiver (NIW). Each month has its own page with what moved, what it means for India, China and the rest of the world, and a link to the official bulletin.
Latest: November 2026
EB-2 for the rest of the world moved forward three months, and EB-1 China moved forward one month. EB-1 stays current for most countries, and India did not move in either category.
| Category | Rest of world | China | India | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-1 | CurrentNo change | Aug 1, 2023Up 1 month | Feb 1, 2023No change | CurrentNo change | CurrentNo change |
| EB-2 | Apr 1, 2025Up 3 months | Oct 1, 2021No change | Nov 1, 2013No change | Apr 1, 2025Up 3 months | Apr 1, 2025Up 3 months |
Read the full November 2026 breakdown
Final action dates, month by month
| Bulletin | EB-1 India | EB-1 China | EB-2 India | EB-2 China | EB-2 rest of world |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 2026 | Feb 1, 2023 | Aug 1, 2023 | Nov 1, 2013 | Oct 1, 2021 | Apr 1, 2025 |
| October 2026 | Feb 1, 2023 | Jul 1, 2023 | Nov 1, 2013 | Oct 1, 2021 | Jan 1, 2025 |
All months
Frequently asked questions
What is the Visa Bulletin?
A monthly notice from the U.S. Department of State that shows, for each green card category and country of birth, which priority dates can move forward. If your priority date is earlier than the date shown, a visa number is available to you.
What is a priority date?
Your place in line. For EB-1A and EB-2 NIW self-petitions, it is the date USCIS receives your I-140 petition.
What is the difference between final action dates and dates for filing?
Final action dates show when a green card can be approved. Dates for filing show when you can submit the green card application. Each month USCIS says which of the two charts it accepts for new filings.
Which country does the Visa Bulletin use for me?
Your country of birth, not your citizenship or where you live. In some cases you can use your spouse's country of birth instead.
Does the Visa Bulletin apply to the O-1 visa?
No. The O-1 is a temporary work visa with no annual limit by country. The Visa Bulletin only applies to green cards such as EB-1A and EB-2 NIW.
These pages explain the bulletin in plain words and are not legal advice. Always confirm dates in the official Visa Bulletin and ask a licensed immigration attorney about your case.