1. What is the purpose of the visa bulletin?

The visa bulletin is a monthly publication by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs that provides information on the availability of immigrant visas. The bulletin provides information on which immigrant visa categories are current, backlogged or suspended. It also provides the priority dates for visa categories, which indicate when a person can apply for a visa based on their place in the line for available immigrant visas.

2. How do I determine if a visa is available for my particular classification?

You can determine if a visa is available for your particular classification by using the Department of State’s Visa Availability and Priority Dates tool. This tool is updated monthly to reflect the current availability of visas for each type of nonimmigrant visa category. The tool also provides information on the priority dates for each visa type, which can help you determine when your application may be processed.

3. How often does the visa bulletin get updated?

The visa bulletin is typically updated on the first Tuesday of each month.

4. What is the difference between an immigrant visa number and a NVC processing number?

An immigrant visa number is a unique number assigned to an individual when their immigrant visa application is approved. It is used to track the visa and must be provided to the U.S. embassy or consulate in order for the individual to receive their visa. A NVC processing number is assigned when an immigrant visa application is filed with the National Visa Center (NVC). It is a code assigned to the case by the NVC and used to track progress and communication between the NVC and the applicant.

5. What is a “cut-off date” in the visa bulletin and how does it apply to me?

A cut-off date, also known as a Final Action Date, is the date used by the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin to determine which applicants are eligible to receive an immigrant visa. This date is based on an individual’s Priority Date, and if their Priority Date is before the cut-off date then they are eligible for an immigrant visa. The cut-off date is updated monthly and used to calculate who is eligible for visas in each category.

6. How is priority date established?

The priority date of an application is the date that it is first filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. This is a critical date for determining priority and is used to establish the right of the applicant to obtain a patent for their invention before someone else.

7. What is the “Final Action Date” and how does it affect me?

The Final Action Date is the date set by the U.S. Department of State in which individuals with a certain priority date may be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa or adjust status to permanent residence. It is important to note that this date only applies if the individual is from a country with a high demand for visas, as these dates can be subject to rapid changes based on the demand. Depending on an individual’s eligibility, the Final Action Date can affect how long they have to wait for processing of their immigrant visa or adjustment of status application.

8. What are the three main types of visa categories listed on the visa bulletin?

The three main types of visa categories listed on the visa bulletin are family-based, employment-based, and diversity visas. Family-based visas are available to certain close family members of US citizens or permanent residents. Employment-based visas are for foreign nationals who plan to work in the United States. Diversity visas are available to foreign nationals from countries whose immigrants are underrepresented in the U.S. population.

9. How can I check my priority date to determine if I am eligible to file my immigrant petition?

You can check your priority date by visiting the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin. The Visa Bulletin lists categories of immigrants and the date each category was established. Your priority date should be listed in the appropriate category. If it is not, it may be listed in a related or similar category. You can also contact the National Visa Center to get information on your priority date.

10. What types of documents will be required for NVC processing?

The documents required for NVC processing depend on the visa type for which you are applying. Generally, it will include a passport-style photo, a birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce decree (if applicable), police certificates, financial evidence, and affidavits of support. Additionally, if you are applying for an immigrant visa, you will also need to complete and submit Form DS-260.

11. How do I know when my priority date is current so that I can begin filing for adjustment of status?

You can check the Visa Bulletin, which is published monthly by the U.S. Department of State, to see when your priority date is current. This bulletin is available on the U.S. Department of State website. Additionally, your immigration attorney or an accredited representative at your local USCIS office may be able to provide you with an updated version of the Visa Bulletin if the one online is out of date.

12. What is the difference between the “Dates for Filing” and “Final Action Dates” listed on the visa bulletin?

The “Dates for Filing” indicates when immigrant visa applicants should be ready to submit their applications. The “Final Action Dates” indicates when an application may be approved and visa number may be available.

13. How will I know when I have completed all of the NVC processing requirements?

The National Visa Center will send you a letter with the instructions to complete the final steps of the NVC processing, such as paying the visa fees and submitting any required documents. Once you have completed all of these steps, your application will be forwarded to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will be interviewed for a visa.

14. What if my priority date is not yet current according to the visa bulletin?

If your priority date is not yet current according to the visa bulletin, you will need to wait until it is current before you can proceed with your immigration application. You may check the USCIS website for updates on visa availability.

15. What are the associated costs for completing NVC processing?

The associated costs for completing NVC processing include the immigrant visa application processing fees, the immigrant visa fees, and affidavit of support fees. Additionally, some applicants may need to pay for medical exams, passport services, and courier services.

16. When does NVC processing start and what are the associated wait times?

NVC processing starts after the petition has been approved by USCIS and the National Visa Center (NVC) receives it. The current wait time for NVC processing and visa issuance varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence and visa class. In general, wait times range from four to six months, although some cases can take up to a year or more. Check the Department of State website for current wait times.

17. What should I do if I have any changes in address or contact information during NVC processing?

If you have any changes in address or contact information during NVC processing, please contact the National Visa Center (NVC) directly. You can call NVC at 603-334-0700 or email them at [email protected].

18. What happens if a petition expires while I am in the midst of NVC processing?

If a petition expires while you are in the midst of NVC processing, the NVC will inform you that you must submit a new petition in order for your application to move forward. The NVC will not be able to continue processing without a valid petition.

19. Can I expedite my NVC processing if necessary?

Yes, you can contact the NVC to request expedited processing, but the NVC cannot guarantee that your case will be expedited.

20. Are there any additional documents or information that I need to submit in order to complete NVC processing?

Yes, depending on the visa category you are applying for, you may need to submit additional documents such as police clearance certificates, birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of financial support, and other forms and documents. It is important to review your visa instructions package carefully to determine what documents and information are required.