Visa Bulletin June 2024: The Visa Bulletin is a vital resource for anyone involved in family-based immigration to the U.S. The June 2024 edition reveals the latest information on backlogs and processing times. In this article, we’ll break down the bulletin and guide how to use it.
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The Visa Bulletin Explained
- What is it? The Visa Bulletin is a monthly report issued by the U.S. Department of State. It outlines the availability of immigrant visas across both family-sponsored and employment-based categories.
- Why does it matter? The U.S. has annual and per-country caps on the number of family-based immigrant visas issued. The Visa Bulletin shows how the backlogs are progressing and helps you estimate when your visa might become available.
Understanding the Visa Bulletin’s Charts
- Final Action Dates (Chart A): If your priority date is on or before the date listed for your category and country, your visa is likely available. This means it’s time to take the next steps in the immigration process!
- Dates for Filing (Chart B): If your priority date falls within this chart, you may be able to begin gathering documents and filing paperwork with the National Visa Center (NVC). This prepares you for when a visa becomes available.
Key Terms for Understanding the Visa Bulletin
- Priority Date: This crucial date is when USCIS officially received your I-130 petition (the form used to start the family sponsorship process). Your priority date determines your position in the immigration line.
- Chargeability Area: Your country of birth matters because it determines which country’s visa limits apply to you. This can significantly impact your wait time.
- Family Preference Categories: Visa Bulletin Family Immigration The categories (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, F4) are based on your relationship to your U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor (e.g., spouse, child, sibling). Each category has different wait times.
How to Read the Visa Bulletin
The Visa Bulletin has two central charts:
- Final Action Dates (Chart A): This chart shows the length of the overall backlog for a specific category. If your priority date is before the listed date, your visa should be available.
- Dates for Filing (Chart B): Shows when people with specific priority dates can start the documentary qualification process with the National Visa Center (NVC) after USCIS approves their I-130 petition.
Essential terms to understand include:
- Priority Date: The date USCIS received your I-130 petition.
- Chargeability Area: Your country of birth.
- Family Preference Categories:
- F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (over 21) of U.S. citizens.
- F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents.
- F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (over 21) of lawful permanent residents.
- F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
- F4: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens.
Visa Bulletin June 2024
| Category | All Chargeability Areas | China | India | Mexico | Philippines |
| F1 (Final Action Date) | July 8, 2015 | July 8, 2015 | July 8, 2015 | Jan 1, 2002 | July 8, 2015 |
| F2A (Final Action Date) | Nov 1, 2021 | Nov 1, 2021 | Nov 1, 2021 | Feb 1, 2021 | Nov 1, 2021 |
| F2B (Final Action Date) | Apr 1, 2016 | Apr 1, 2016 | Apr 1, 2016 | July 1, 2004 | Apr 1, 2016 |
| F3 (Final Action Date) | Mar 1, 2010 | Mar 1, 2010 | Mar 1, 2010 | Dec 1, 2010 | Dec 1, 2021 |
| F4 (Final Action Date) | July 22, 2007 | July 22, 2007 | July 22, 2007 | Feb 1, 2001 | Dec 1, 2022 |
June 2024 Visa Bulletin Analysis
Compared to the May 2024 bulletin, the significant movements observed were:
- F2A: Advanced around 5+ months for all chargeability areas.
- Mexico: Positive movement across several categories (F1, F2A, F2B, F3), showing potential to catch up with other countries.
Unfortunately, limited movement was seen in most other categories. If your priority date matches any of the dates above, it’s worth checking the NVC portal for updates on your case.
What to Do If Your Priority Date is Current
- NVC Action: The National Visa Center will contact you with instructions on the next steps in the visa application process.
- Prepare Documents: Begin gathering the required paperwork as early as possible to ensure a smooth and timely process.
Staying Informed
- Official Sources: For the most accurate and up-to-date Visa Bulletin information, emphasize consulting the Department of State website (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin.html) and USCIS.
Conclusion
The Visa Bulletin can be complex, but understanding its structure is essential for navigating family-based immigration. Monitor the bulletin regularly, exercise patience, and always refer to official sources for the most accurate updates.
FAQ Visa Bulletin June 2024
This means there is no backlog for your specific category and country of birth. You may be eligible to file for an immigrant visa immediately.
Check your I-130 notice of receipt from USCIS or log into your NVC portal.
The NVC will contact you about the next steps in the visa application process.
