Hot off the press - March Visa Bulletin. I will post some commentary later today or tonight. Feel free to drop your comment below.
The most obvious development was the progress in the employment-based third preference (EB3). The cutoff date jumped ahead for “EB3 Philippines” and “EB3 All Chargeability Areas” (everywhere but China, India or Mexico).
What did the notes of the March visa bulletin say about this movement?
The cut-off date movement for March in several Employment categories has been greater than those experienced in recent months. Advancement of the cut-off dates at this time should prevent a situation later in the fiscal year where there are large amounts of numbers available but not enough time to use them. If the expected increase in CIS number use materializes, future cut-off date movements could slow or stop.
March 2008 // Employment-Based Visa Bulletin:
March 2008 // Family-Based Visa Bulletin:
135 responses so far ↓
1 samir patel // Jan 31, 2008 at 11:54 am
my parents became citizen of usa in 2003 Nov, and i am married can u tell me when my visas can come?..thanks.
2 Irene Mahusay // Feb 1, 2008 at 8:31 am
hi john,
Im irene an RN in the philippines & had my interview last nov. 28, 2006 im also done with my medical exam but unfortunately after a week i received a letter from the embassy that my case was affected by the retrogression. Whats my chances of having the visa? Would it be possible early next year after the election? Coz if not im planning to apply for canada or australia for the mean time 2 yrs working visa. Is it reasonable to apply or il just have to wait after election?? Pls advice… thnx.
3 Irene Mahusay // Feb 2, 2008 at 9:40 am
hi joh,
its irene again! I 4got to tell you that my priority date is july 2004.Pls advice… thnx again.
4 John C // Feb 4, 2008 at 9:46 pm
@Samir: Have you filed anything? What are the priority dates? I need more info.
@Irene: Hi Irene. The cutoff date for EB3 Philippines is about 18 months behind your priority date. So it’s possible that your date might become available within the next year. Is it probable? I’m not really sure. The only way to tell is to keep watching the visa bulletins and reading the notes that go along with each one.
[Update Feb. 12th: The March bulletin just came out and I am emailing Irene to give her the good news.]
5 Gary B // Feb 7, 2008 at 10:42 pm
John, my stepdaughter in Russia has a priority date in the first family preference of August 30, 2002. Can you tell me if the cutoff date for Russia is behind the priority date? I am also curious as to why her class only moved 6 days in the February bulletin, when they said in January we could expect the same movement as in the previous months?
6 jo // Feb 8, 2008 at 5:21 am
Hi John,
Im jo a nurse in the Philippines. I passed already the nclex and ielts since 2006. I have already visa screen certificate. Also, my family and I has a tourist visa, is it safe and advisable for me to go to america this April or May and wait there until the retrogression be lifted (hopefully) on July- September? Please advise. Thanks.
7 John C // Feb 8, 2008 at 6:36 am
@Gary: Russia is in the “all other” first preference category and the current cutoff date is February 8, 2002. Your stepdaughter will likely be waiting until that cutoff date progresses past your her priority date (August 30, 2002).
The visa bulletin changes without notice and the cutoff dates don’t always progress as the notes of previous bulletins say they will. It’s a very complicated system to manage and the State Department is forced to predict (read guess) how many visa applications have been filed and will be filed. Sometimes they predict incorrectly and must adjust the dates in later months.
@Jo: Hi. Who told you that retrogression will be lifted in the summer of 2008?
There are a couple things wrong with that. First, it’s impossible to predict what might happen this summer. Second, it’s very unlikely to happen in my opinion.
My guess, and I hope I’m wrong, is that whoever told you that retrogression would be lifted in 2008 did so in their own self-interest.
8 jo // Feb 9, 2008 at 7:55 am
John, thanks for your opinion. Is it possible that my tourist visa be converted into F1?
9 A. Rampal // Feb 9, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Hi john
my priority date is in the first family preference of September 2003. I predicted that it will go smoothly as it was happening in last months and ill expect my visa by September 2009. But as the cut off date just moved 8 days in Feb, its difficult to predict.
I have a B1/B2 visa too. What do you suggest should i sit back and wait. Or go there and get F1 or any other option you suggest, that works best for me.
10 Ramsey // Feb 9, 2008 at 12:33 pm
john, need to add to Jo’s question. Is it possible that my tourist visa be converted into F1 student visa when i am already in queue for immigration?
11 lilibeth // Feb 9, 2008 at 2:32 pm
hi,
my priority date is april 30,2004, when can i expect my visa, until now i haven’t been called for interview,thank you.
lilibeth
12 weng // Feb 9, 2008 at 3:02 pm
hello john!i would like to inquire if it’s possible that i apply for an H1C visa while waiting for the retrogression to be lifted?
i have already signed a contract at a certain facility.can my papers still be processed if i withdraw my agreement to the said facility after i have paid them the amount that they spend with the papers that they have processed?Thanks!
13 chirag // Feb 10, 2008 at 7:03 am
hello john
my file date is in june 29 and i am in the F3 category please tell me an approx time in which i may be moving there
thank you
chirag
14 Arnel // Feb 10, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Hi John,
My wife is a daughter of a U.S. world war II veteran here in the Philippines. She is 43 yrs. old
Her priority date is December 1992. Her father is already at his early 80’s. How come it took her ( including her brother and sister ) too long to get to the United States when her father fought under the U.S. flag during world war II.
15 march 2008 visa bulletin Trendy Here! // Feb 11, 2008 at 6:02 pm
[...] and I will post it here immediately. Bookmark this page for the March visa bulletin and the … credit : [...]
16 John C // Feb 11, 2008 at 7:47 pm
@Jo: What do you mean converted? Do you mean converted inside the United States? You should also consider that to enter the United States on a tourist or student visa, you must have no intention to stay permanently.
@A.Rampal: I can’t give you any specific advice. But see my comment to Jo above. The March bulletin should be out any day and maybe that will give us more insight.
@Ramsey: What do you mean converted? See my response to Jo above.
@Lilibeth: Hi. Which category have you applied for?
@Weng: Hello. I’m not very familiar with H-1C visas. I have never applied for one myself. Regarding your second question, that’s between you and that facility. I’m not privy to your contract.
@Chirag: June 29th of which year?
@Arnel: Hi. Have you checked to make sure your wife is not a US citizen? You might want to have an immigration lawyer take a closer look if you haven’t already.
Otherwise, the long wait is because of per country limits on visas.
17 Arnel // Feb 12, 2008 at 12:31 am
Hello John,
My wife still is a Filipino citizen. It’s only her father who became a US citizen after he took oath sometime in 1991. I just want to know if US government do give special priority to those children of a world war II veterans. Or do US government really care about those veterans and their children?
18 John C // Feb 12, 2008 at 1:04 am
@Arnel: I think the US government does care about its veterans and their children. But I personally don’t know of any fast-track for the children of naturalized veterans of WWII - I’ve never applied for anyone in that situation or researched it.
If I come across anything, though, I’ll email you personally Arnel. Or if anyone has some idea, feel free to post and help us out!
19 amor // Feb 12, 2008 at 2:47 pm
can i apply h1c visa though i have pending immigrant visa,,,the employer paid the bill already,,,i want to apply h1c to be sure
20 Arnel // Feb 12, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Thank you John. Am just really wondering why its taking too long and that my wife’s father has been feeling hopeless about seeing his children going to the US. Honestly, I wanted to ask her father if it was worth risking his life fighting under US flag. But I can’t ask him regarding on that matter thinking that I might just add insult to an injury. Well, thanks again John and God Bless..
21 Hafiz // Feb 13, 2008 at 3:46 am
Dear John,
I sponsored my wife and she’s in category 2A. Her priority date is March 19th 2003
thank you
22 John C // Feb 13, 2008 at 3:54 am
@Amor: I don’t know anything about H-1C visas. But you cannot have immigrant intent when you enter the US in most nonimmigrant classifications. There are exceptions for people in H-1B and L status. I’m not sure about H-1C, but I don’t think so.
@Hafiz: You are obviously close - the priority date is April 15, 2003 for that category. But I have no idea how long until the cutoff date moves forward past your wife’s priority date.
23 PTbydefault // Feb 13, 2008 at 4:18 am
Hi! I am a physical therapist from the Phillippines. I have a pending EB3 application, priority date - July 2006. Is it ok to apply for a cap exempt H1B visa with another employer?
24 John C // Feb 13, 2008 at 4:39 am
@PTbydefault: Hi. Yes. H1B is for current employment. EB3 is for future employment. H1B is a nonimmgrant visa, EB3 is an immigrant visa.
Although most nonimmigrant visas require that the applicant not have any immigrant intent, H1B visas allow for “dual intent” … making immigrant intent irrelevant.
25 dev // Feb 13, 2008 at 6:22 am
hello john
my file date is august 22 2000 and i am in the F3 category please tell me an approx time in which i may be moving there
thank you
26 dev // Feb 13, 2008 at 6:25 am
hi john i forget to tell you that i am canadian citizen
and leaving in canada india born
27 jot // Feb 13, 2008 at 12:24 pm
hi john! My husband petitioned me and my daughter under F2A category. While waiting for our priority date to become current, we had another child. Is it possible that our “later acquired son” can be added even though he’s not listed in the original petition? thanks!
28 Fredrik // Feb 13, 2008 at 12:43 pm
John,i have tourist visa for US. I got my admission in UCLA but should i apply for it from my home or i can do that while in US too. Is it legal to apply for Student visa while on b1/b2?
29 JOSEPH M.TENORIO // Feb 13, 2008 at 3:16 pm
hi,
Im joseph,a nurse from riyadh,my priority date is Augost 2005 and my visa screen certificate is expiring on February 2009.Do you have any prediction when my visa will be available,knowing the obvious big jump on the march 2008 visa bulliten?Will it be available before the expiration of my visa screen certificate?
30 tammy // Feb 14, 2008 at 12:08 am
Hi John,
Thanks for posting the bulletin, I’m glad I found, my embassy page is still in the FEB Bulletin!
We are almost there, I’m hoping end of March, beginning of April… let’s cross our fingers so they don’t go back on the numbers and continue moving forward!!!
Tks again!
Tammy
31 Carmen Pilapil // Feb 14, 2008 at 3:41 am
My PD is July 2006, would it be possible that cut-off dates for the VB continue to move fast like what happened now in March? I’m under EB3 category from the Philippines.
32 Irene Mahusay // Feb 14, 2008 at 6:03 am
john,
my priority will be current for march EB3 category philippines(jan. 1 2005). My priority date was july 26, 2004 im already done with my interview & medical exam last nov. 2006 yet my passport is still @ the embassy since the interview up to now but, unfortunately still affected by the retrogression that year. Will i get my visa next month march? what should i do next to expedite its release?
33 Leslie // Feb 14, 2008 at 11:52 am
John,
This is Leslie again.. im a nurse from the Philippines. My priority date is Oct 2006. what does the March bulletin means? does it mean that the retrogression has been lifted already?
34 Leslie // Feb 14, 2008 at 12:07 pm
im under EB3 category.
35 ratna patel // Feb 14, 2008 at 12:12 pm
my f3 pitition filed march 2001 but not process by national visa center
36 Tania // Feb 14, 2008 at 1:38 pm
Hi, John. My name is Tania. I am currently here in the U.S. accompanying my daughter attend school. I have a non-immigrant visa (B1/B2) and a I-539 pending application for extension filed Dec 2007. Been checking on processing time frames for Vermont, it still says July 27, 2007. When do you think will I get an answer for my I-539? I am worried because it is already past my allowed stay (Jan 24, 2008). When do you think will USCIS give me an answer on my I-539? In addition to that, I’ve come across some employers who offered to sponsor me since I am also a nurse, and an I-140 petition was filed for me last Oct 2007. They say I can file for an adjustment of status and work permit once my category becomes current. With the present situation and my allowed stay still pending, what is the best advice you can give me? Do I have other options? Thank you for your time.
37 Ols // Feb 14, 2008 at 10:17 pm
How long does it take to get an interview after your PD is earlier than cut off date?
38 Butch_Phil // Feb 15, 2008 at 1:21 am
Hi John,
im a nurse from the philippines under EB3 category. my PD is Oct 2006. my agency just asked me to submit my DS230. Im already in packet 3. Can u tell me an approx time when can i have my visa? could it be possible this year? Is there a possibility that retrogression could happen again like what happened last year? Thank you in advance john..
39 mel // Feb 15, 2008 at 2:13 am
hi John, im currently in the us under tourist visa. my i94 expires on march 28. is it advisable to look for an employer and file for a petition before going back to the philippines? is it possible to go back to the us under my tourist visa again once visa becomes available even if an I140 is filed? if i opt to file for a petition and the visa becomes available, would they ask in the interview how i got an employer? would i get into trouble knowing that i got an employer while under a tourist visa? thank you so much!
40 Ron // Feb 15, 2008 at 2:35 am
Hi John - Do we know how many immigrant visa numbers for EB-3 other countries category have been used, and how many are still remaining to be used? I fall under EB-3 category in “All Other” country and my priority date is like mid-June 2007. My H-1B Status expires May 2010. My lawyer filed I-140 on July 17, 2007, and already filed I-485 on August 22, 2007. I believe last year there was the July chaos where all the categories became current, and then they closed it, and and then reopened, and that’s why my laywer was able to get my I-485 in last year. So now that ALL my paperwork are already in (By the way, I received receipt notices for I-140, I-485, and I-131 last year so I am good there), but I am wondering about the likelihood of getting an immigrant visa number this year?
Also, my I-131 and my I-140 still have not been approved, and historically how long it takes to approve I-131 and I-140?
41 David // Feb 15, 2008 at 3:08 am
Hi John,
Looks like you’re the go-to guy for many soon-to-be immigrants. My hats off to you for the advice you give.
Background:
My wife is a legal permanent resident (EB3)already in the US. We (me plus 4 kids) chose not to leave for the US with her when she left. We are, however, already registered as following-to-join beneficiaries, with a priority date of Nov. 20, 2003. The US embassy has our papers already, as we submitted it to them last July 2007.
With this, are we supposed to do anything, or simply wait for the application packet? Are we supposed to coordinate with the National Visa Center, or will they just get in tocuh with us?
Thanks.
42 John C // Feb 15, 2008 at 5:51 am
@everyone: As some of you know, I just put up this site a few weeks ago. I had no idea it would get so much traffic and attract so many comments. Thanks to all of you for your interest.
Because I am receiving so many questions in the comments section here and most of the comments are not always related to the main content of the original post, I’m planning to start a forum where all questions and answers will be more organized.
If you’d like to be given a special “sneak preview” as a private beta tester of this new forum, shoot me an email at thevisabulletin@gmail.com. I’m grateful for your help.
@Dev: Hi. The cutoff date in the March bulletin for your category (India F3) was May 15, 2000. I don’t know how long until your August priority date will be current. Maybe this summer or fall, but you can never know for sure.
@Jot: Hi. I don’t know the answer to that one. Most of my experience is with work visas - less with family issues like this. But if I come across the answer, I’ll be sure to post it (in the new forum) and here.
@Fredrik: Your answer depends on a lot of timing issues specific to your situation. But it generally shouldn’t matter. The bigger problem is when someone comes on a tourist visa and then starts going to school shortly after arriving. I don’t think that applies to you, but don’t do that.
@Joseph M. Tenorio: Hi. I don’t know what’s going to happen in the coming visa bulletins. But be sure to read the quote that I included above in the original post… the notes to the March bulletin said that the cutoff date might slow down or stop.
@Tammy: Those embassies are too slow.
Thanks for stopping by again. I’m looking forward to the April bulletin already and hope it brings you some good news.
@Carmen Pilapil: See my comment above to Joseph. I think that the cutoff dates will slow or stop, just as the notes suggested. This jump forward for EB3 in the March bulletin was a one time thing in my opinion.
@Irene: This is a very local question. I would call the embassy right away and ask how to proceed. Good luck!
@Leslie: Hi. Thanks for stopping by again. The March bulletin jumped forward just because they wanted to be sure to use all visas for the fiscal year - at least that’s what the notes from the State Department said.
I have said it in other comments before, but I don’t think retrogression will be lifted in 2008. It is not a yearly thing. It happened last summer due to a big miscommunication. I thinkn the chances of it happening again are very slim. I am probably the only immigration lawyer telling people this.
I just don’t like getting your hopes up for nothing. I hope retrogression is lifted, but I expect that it won’t be.
@Ratna Patel: Call the NVC.
@Tania: I am confused how your extension of nonimmigrant status (I-539 filed December 2007) can be approved if you filed an immigrant petition (I-140) in October 2007??
I don’t want to give you any specific advice. Does the company that filed the I-140 have a lawyer? They should be advising you about these possible issues.
If you are in the United States on a nonimmigrant visa, you have to be very careful about showing immigrant intent.
@Ols: Depends on a lot of things, especially your local procedures. I don’t know.
@Butch Phil: Hi. Thanks for writing. I don’t want to repeat myself, so please see my response above (@Leslie). Stay tuned for the next few bullletins…
@Mel: Hi. I don’t give out specific advice. But you have the same issues as @Tania I discussed above. You are in the US as a nonimmigrant. Be careful. Good luck.
@Ron: Hi. You are correct about the chaos last July. It wasn’t pretty at all. And it seems like you are one of the few people who understand that being eligible to file last July doesn’t really help you all that much. It is your priority date that rules - always. The chaos did help some people out who had no other option but to go into “advanced parole status”. But for everyone else, it was just a whole lot of drama.
Form I-131 is usually approved about the same time as the EAD card, so I’m surprised you don’t have it yet. You might want to call USCIS (or your lawyer). But first check the processing times. See processing times. Same goes for I-140 - check the processing time where your application is pending.
Will you get a green card this year? I don’t think the EB3 category is going to go too much further forward in 2008 (if it goes forward at all). But we’ll see. Thanks for your comment, Ron.
@David: I didn’t know that putting up this site would attract so much interest. And so quickly. But I’m grateful and maybe something good will come out of all this.
You are in the
2A category and the cutoff date is April 15, 2003 for everyone except nationals of Mexico. So you still have some waiting if your priority date is November 2003. Keeping checking the visa bulletin each month andEB3 category (Ed. he is following to join, I misunderstood originally). Contact the embassy for directions once your date approaches.43 David // Feb 15, 2008 at 6:11 am
Hi John,
Thanks for the quick reply. Actually, we’re in the Employment EB3 Category (my wifey’s a nurse), and so our PD is well within the March 2008 dates. I was just wondering what would happen next. But as you advised, might be best if I just call the embassy here. Thanks.
44 John C // Feb 15, 2008 at 6:17 am
@David: Sorry, you were the last one and I misunderstood your question. I’m glad you don’t have to wait!
45 Irene Mahusay // Feb 15, 2008 at 7:21 am
ok john thank you very much for your reply. Pls do inform me right away for any advice that i should take & the chances i have to get that visa. thnx again john…
46 kiki // Feb 15, 2008 at 7:23 am
Hi,
I am RN from india(EB3)
My priority date is jul2006
My I-140 approved in june2006.
in jan 2007 we submitted the DS-230 form
Based on the above details till how many years to take my turn will come?
47 Cacey // Feb 15, 2008 at 3:01 pm
John,
Im under EB3, Im a nurse from Philippines and my PD is February 2005. If my PD will be current on april visa bulletin, is it possible that i could have my visa even if theres still retrogression? To those PD’s earlier than the cut off date (Jan 2005), what are there status in NVC? are there papers being processed already? could there be a chance that they can have their visas this year? Thanks in advance john!
48 Ron // Feb 15, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Hi John - Thank you for your concise and insightful response! I can tell you that your website here is so helpful!!
I did check the processing times, and I am not sure I understand how to interpret it. I already received my EAD sometime last year, I think it only took them 3 months to approve my EAD (I think the paperwork for I-765 went in July 2007, and then by October or November 2007 I received my EAD), so I am surprised when you said tha I-131 is usually approved at about the same time as I-765. So back to my question on how to intrepret the processing times on the USCIS website.
Nebraska says I-140 for skilled workers & professionals to have a processing timeframe of Jan 22, 2007 –> What does it mean? Does it mean it is processing cases that they received by Jan 22, 2007? If that’s the case, then it means they have not worked on my case yet, since my I-140 went into USCIS in July 2007.
Same question with I-131, Nebraska says a date of June 8, 2007, and my I-131 paperwork went in also around July 2007.
Appreciate your help.
Ron
49 Gisele // Feb 15, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Hi there,
My first question is why can’t all these departments get their act together and help create a streamlined process instead of a MILLION forms and applications. It is such a waste of time, effort, money and is useless. I feel like we are being asked to wait in line then told to wait in another line. Seems pathetic to me. You would think a country as progressive as the U.S would develop a more efficient process for handling immigration! Then you have people who walked over the boarder into California finding loop holes in the system and getting their Green Cards faster than I can type this email. My company screwed up royaly and applied for me under the EB3 category when I have the experience to be under the EB2 category. Do you honestly not think the date will move up any more than 2005? I heard immigration is trying to move faster and remove these ridiculous backlogs?
I know you don’t want to put up our hopes but this is much better than the 2002 date they had for (all other countries) category which is usually current. I recently applied for my I-140 so I have a nice long road to go.
Thanks!
50 Peter // Feb 16, 2008 at 12:35 am
Hi John,
I am from Taiwan. I filed I-485 on July 23, 2007 with EB3. My priority date is April, 2006. I am happy that the cut-off date for EB3 (world) moved so fast this month. On the other hand, I am worried because I planed to get married in April this year and wait for the right time to file the adjustment for my wife. Do you think my I-485 may be approved any time soon?
Appreciate your help.
51 john paul kelley // Feb 16, 2008 at 2:02 am
I am visitor at your site and would like to shoot you a question. Thanks in advanced.
I am currently on F2B category and the priority date was just updated to Feb 01, 97.
My priority date is April 97 and I have been waiting for 11 years now. Do you think it will be soon? Are there any chances that I will be able to go to the US this year?
Thanks for any information you can give. I’ve waited too long and I was hoping to see my siblings whom I haven’t seen since birth. hehehe
Thanks again
John Paul Kelley from the Philippines
52 SoloMon // Feb 16, 2008 at 7:44 am
Hey John,
I have a question for you.
I have been wondering if my case has been move down to F2B. I turned 21 in 2007 and when i file my case, i was 19. One of my document has listed that I’m in the F2A priority date 15NOV2004. I also remember reading of bush signing a law about aging out.
Thanks
53 David // Feb 16, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Hi. Just a thought for those in EB3 Phils and Other Countries…especially those whose priority dates are now current with the release of the March VB (and that includes me).
The last time the PD’s moved this fast was in May-July 2007, when the PDs moved from Aug 2002 to Aug. 2003 to June 2005 to Current to Unavailable, all in a span of four months. We all know about the confusion that followed that fiasco. I’m hoping that those guys in the State Dept. have learned their lesson, and that we aren’t facing a repeat of what happened last year. One never knows what the next Visa Bulletin will say, so let’s just keep our fingers crossed. John, woudl appreciate your thoughts on this… Thanks.
54 John C // Feb 17, 2008 at 7:59 am
@Irene Mahusay: Anytime.
@Kiki: Hi. That’s the million dollar question. The best we can do is keep checking the next visa bulletin.
@Cacey: If your priority date is current, there is a chance your visa will be approved. There are too many factors making it difficult to know exactly how cases are prioritized. But those with earlier priority dates should have priority. If anyone else knows more about this, feel free to post in a new comment.
@Ron: Yes, processing times listed are receipt dates of applications. You’ve got it right.
@Gisele: Hi there. I wouldn’t wish some of those loopholes upon anyone. It’s no secret that the system is complicated and sometimes nonsensical, but it sounds to me like you should direct more anger at your company.
I don’t know what will happen to the EB3 dates. But I’m not optimistic. Any updates or even rumors will be posted here..
@Peter: Hi. I don’t think EB3 will go forward much further. But anything is possible. Congrats on your engagement!
@John Paul Kelley: I don’t know anything you don’t. I hope you get to see your family soon.
@SoloMon: Hi. I’m not very familiar with the aging out provisions. But maybe I’ll try to post some information about it in an upcoming post.
@David: Hi. I think you make a good point. The notes said they might need to slow down or stop the movement. And I think it’s very possible the dates could even go backwards.
55 edz // Feb 17, 2008 at 11:24 am
HI ! I am an RN from the Philippines. Iwould like to know if it possible within this year I could have my consular interview? I am in EB3 category and my PD is August 2005. I really pray to God that everyone of us will finally make our dreams come true. Godbless us all and may God speed our deployments to the USA.
56 SoloMon // Feb 17, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Thanks john, it will be very helpful for me.
57 Tania // Feb 18, 2008 at 12:24 am
Hi, John. This is Tania again. First and foremost, I would like to commend your website. Thank you for putting this up and for taking time to answer all our queries. In response to your Feb 15 answer, I understand your confusion about my situation. My case is complicated… my petition was filed Oct 2007 since it was during that time when I was already here in the US that I was offered future employment. I filed an extension of stay last Dec 2007 since I had to stay longer based on my daughter’s request since she attends school here. (She is a US citizen). I do however plan to go back to the Philippines by July (which is the timeframe I’ve requested for my extension) and wait it out there until my petition gets processed. My husband is based there as well. My question now is… based on the current events with processing and the retrogression status, when do you estimate movement with regards to my EB3 petition that was just filed Oct 2007? Around how long would my wait be in the Philippines? I still do not have a priority date listed on my receipt since it was just recently filed. And would it be possible for me to apply for a tourist visa again (despite the filed EB3 petition) since my multiple entry B1/B2 non-immigrant visa is expiring this July 2008 and I would definitely want to come back frequently to check on my daughter while she stays with my sister here in the US. I do have immigrant intent that is why I have agreed to the petition of my employer but I have behaved well in my past frequent visits here in the US and I still intend to keep my status clean since I wouldn’t want to jeopardize my petition. Do you think I would still be given a B1/B2 should I apply for one again? If the chances are slim, I would rather bring my daughter back to Manila with me this July and we’ll all wait it out there. But if the waiting time for my EB3 petition is not that long, I can probably make her stay here and not waste her opportunity to study here. It depends on the big scenario you would be able to give me, that is why I am asking you. Thank you for your time again. And more power to this website!
58 Jean // Feb 18, 2008 at 7:46 am
Hi John,
I would like to ask regarding Family Based Visa under 4th category. My Father’s petition date was Dec. 1986. I would like to ask when is the estimate date that it will we process? Thanks .
59 Elaine // Feb 18, 2008 at 8:44 am
Hello john,
I am a nurse in the Philippines, my PD is 07/04 and I am under EB3 status, my question is how long do you think will it take for our papers to be processed?
60 Babette // Feb 19, 2008 at 2:24 am
I’m a guest here, John.
I’m a nurse in the Philippines with PD of July,2006 under EB3 with application at the NVC and paid for the immigrant visa processing fee just waiting for my application to be current. My question is about my SSN. I passed the CA NCLEX Oct. 2006 but permanent license cant’ be issued unless i have an SSN or else my NCLEX records or file will be destroyed if I can’t give them my SSN within three years. If my application does not become current in the next 18 mos. does that mean I have to repeat my NCLEX?
PLS look for an answer to this querry . THANK YOU SO MUCH.
61 john kelley // Feb 19, 2008 at 7:05 am
Just would like to say thanks.
62 Murad Hussien // Feb 20, 2008 at 8:20 pm
my priority date is 2,4,2002 and the current bulletin is 2,15,2008 and i dont why i havent got any appointment for an interview.
63 Joseph S // Feb 20, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Hi John, I’m new here….
I don’t live in the US and I don’t have any legal status.
I’m waiting for Employment Base 3rd (Venezuela) with priority date December 2003. I will need to apply for consular processing. I have a Labor Certification aprooved and also I-140 approved (December 2007) and I received a letter from the National Visa Center (also on December 2007) collecting some fees to continue with my case.
Since I’m not living on the US I want to try to apply for an H1B with the same sponsor of my Employment Base 3rd.I almost came to a decision to do so, when this weekend realized my priority date became current.
Now I don’t know what to do, it’s kind of important that I move to the US this year because there’s an open position on the company that won’t be there for me for eternity.
I’ve already investigated and there´s no problem to apply for h1b, I mean it won’t interfere with my current Employment Base 3rd.
My concern is Employment Base 3rd retrogression again on the following months. And H1B can only be applying on April of each year. So if I don’t apply this year for H1B, and then retrogression again, I will have to wait until April 2009 to apply for H1B.
What would you advise? Will it be likely to have retrogression again this year?
Thank you.
64 Louryn // Feb 20, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Dear john ,
my brother sponsered me and my daughter im in the catagory for “FAMILY 4TH” . my priorty date is January 13, 1998, and i was wondering do u know how long it would be cause my daughter will be turning 21 in june this year. if not then she’ll be out . thank you
65 Aurora // Feb 21, 2008 at 6:30 am
Hi John,
I am 25 yrs old and my mother filed petition (I130) for me and my priority date is Oct. 23, 1995. I was placed to perference 2B for Mexico because I turned 21 a few months before my appt. I have now been waiting for 12 yrs. This category is moving so slow. Do you know why is it taking so long to get visas for this category? Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?
66 Zaina c. Manejo // Feb 21, 2008 at 7:30 am
i have a question about my case status.it was said that it was returned as undelivered on may 11,2002.pls help m on what to do!im under F2b category and priority date is on Jan 17 1998.
67 John C // Feb 21, 2008 at 8:27 am
@Edz: I hope your dreams come true. But I don’t think EB3 Philippines category will move forward much further. I hope it moves past August 2005 though.
@SoloMon: My pleasure.
@Tania: Hi. Thanks for your comment. I would love to advise you on your situation or help in any way possible, but I can’t give you any specific advice. Truthfully I don’t know how long you will have to wait. Based on the current date and the fact that numbers are not expected to go forward very far (if at all) in your EB3 Philippines category, I don’t see your priority date of October 2007 becoming current with the bulletin for a long time. Hopefully you’ll come back often and update us on your situation. Best of luck!
@Jean: Hi. I’m not sure. The April visa bulletin will be out in a couple weeks and maybe it will give us some more information.
@Elaine: Hi. I’m not sure. Do you mean your priority date is July 2004 for EB3 Philippines? What other information can you provide?
@Babette: Welcome, Babette. This is actually not something I’m very familiar with. Can anyone answer Babette’s question about the NCLEX? I would guess there is an extension/renewal process but I’m not sure. If I come across that info, I’ll post it.
@John Kelley: You’re welcome.
@Murad Hussien: Follow up with whoever you need to follow up.
@Joseph: Hi. Thanks for your comment. The chances of your H-1B application (or the applications of anyone else) being accepted for processing this year are less than 50%. I expect just as many applications as last year, probably even more this time around. Last year there were about 130,000 applications filed for about 65,000 slots… on the first day (two days actually because of regulations). So everyone starts off with a 50/50 shot of being processed. It’s not something you can rely on.
Regarding retrogression in 2008… I’m not sure. The State Department didn’t hint at it. They only said in the notes of the March bulletin that dates might slow down or stop. But I think retrogression is possible again in 2008. Good luck.
@Louryn: Which country are you charged under?
@Aurora: Hi. I’m sorry your category has been moving so slow. I’m not sure why (probably demand peak) but let’s hope for more progress in the April visa bulletin. Good luck, Aurora.
@Zaina C. Manejo: That sounds terrible. You need to figure out what happened.
68 chas // Feb 21, 2008 at 9:39 am
Hi John,
Im an RN from the phils. my case will be current this march. My priority date was July 2004. I’m done with my interview & medical exam last Nov. 28 2006 but unfortunately still affected by the retrogression. In fact my passport is still in the embassy since my interview last nov. 2006. Will i get my visa by march hopefully? What should i do to facilitate its release? Whats my chance of having that visa? Please advice john… Thanks in advance.
69 Mel // Feb 21, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Hello John, I filed for 1-485 last August 2007, my priority date is Jan. 2006. What are the chances of me getting my green card this year? I’m from the Philippines, employment-based, third preference.Thanks for the wonderful service you provide, your website is really helpful.
70 Joseph S // Feb 21, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Thank you for taking time to answer.
Regarding my EB3, how optimistic should I be?
(priority date December 2003. I will need to apply for consular processing. I have a Labor Certification aprooved and also I-140 approved (December 2007) and I received a letter from the National Visa Center (also on December 2007) collecting some fees to continue with my case)
Again thank you…
71 tammy // Feb 21, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Hi John,
How are you?
I was wondering if you could help me with a query, I lived in the USA for 10 years illegally, and for that I am not allowed in US soil for another 10 years as of 2001, which is when i moved back to Brazil and we got started on the paperwork. (FEB252002 Priority Date)
I was recently hired by an American Cruise company and was denied a C1D visa because of that contingency. Is there anything I will need to do as far immigration because of the 10 years???
Such as a fine that I might need to pay???
I know my mom had to pay a fine when she became a resident, and we were wondering how that will be for me to get back in the USA.
Thank you for your time.
Tammy
72 tammy // Feb 21, 2008 at 5:55 pm
ps*** same tammy waiting for the april bulletin with good news! =)
73 Louryn // Feb 21, 2008 at 9:54 pm
hi john , u asked me what country i was charged under . and im not charged on any i live in the United States and doing it here its the one coulmn that says “All charge abilitiy areas accepted those listed”….. this is the question i wrote you : My brother sponsered me and my daughter im in the catagory for “FAMILY 4TH” . my priorty date is January 13, 1998, and i was wondering do u know how long it would be cause my daughter will be turning 21 in june this year. if not then she’ll be out . thank you
74 JESSICA // Feb 22, 2008 at 9:20 am
Hi John
My grandfather is an American citizen.
On September 05th, 2000, my grandfather applied the IV petition with the U.S Immigration and Citizenship Services (USCIS) for my family.
The USCIS approved the IV petition.The main applicant is my father. I am the child who follow my father.
On Jun 2001, my family received one letter from the U.S Immigration and
Citixenship Services (USCIS). This letter informed my family as follow:
* The category: F3.
* The priority date: September 05, 2000.
My family have waited the immigrant visa since 2000. Now I am over 21
years old. My birthday is August 23, 1982.
I known the Child Status Protection Act of 2002. So I would lile to ask
the Information Unit as follow:
1. Do I qualify for benefits under the Child Status Protection Act 2002?
2. Can I have the immigrant visa at the same time with my family in the
future ?
Thanks
75 Joseph S // Feb 22, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Ahother tought, if i apply for H1b, can it interefe in any way with my eb3?
Thank you for this wonderfull help you are providing…
76 Joseph S // Feb 22, 2008 at 5:23 pm
another question, and i dont mean to abuse is a quick one, if my case is at the National Visa Center it meas it will be consular processed? Or all cases even Adjustment of status also go there to wait?
I want to make sure i apply for consular….
Thank you, sorry for shooting that many questions….
77 Tim // Feb 22, 2008 at 9:01 pm
Hello John! First of all I want to thank you for your free job, helping people like us. I’m in EB3 worldwide; my priority date is September 2005, for consular processing. I understand they will move slowly or stop but do you think they will go back again, like last year in July? I keep fingers crossed and hope this year I will be back to US. Once again, THANKS a lot!!!! God bless you!
78 GIGI SANTIAGO // Feb 23, 2008 at 2:46 am
Hi John,
I applied for I-485 EB3 on June 25,2007 and my I-140 was approved on Aug.2007. My PD is Aug.18, 2003 and I’m from the Philippines. Based on the March 2008 visa bulletin, what’s my chance of getting approved? If I get the green card this year, can I get my eldest son who is 19 years to join me here before he turns 21?
Thank you!
79 lilibeth // Feb 24, 2008 at 1:11 am
thank you i am under eb3 category from phillipines ,
80 Ron // Feb 25, 2008 at 12:00 am
Hi John - I am on H-1B and my current petition is supposed to end July 2009, but that’s only my 5th year and the 6th year ends ~May 2010 according to the approval notice. At what point in 2009 should I apply for a 1 year extension to May 2010? I am now still waiting for my I-140 and I-485 to be approved ( I applied concurrently last year), and I am EB-3 from Indonesia, and my priority date is ~June 2006.
Thanks,
Ron
81 John C // Feb 25, 2008 at 7:33 am
@Chas: Hi. I like your chances. But get in touch with the embassy. Let us know what happens.
@Mel: Hi. Sorry to say, I don’t think the cutoff date for EB3 Philippines will move forward past your priority date.
@Joseph S: You are in a good spot. Let us know what happens. Good luck.
@Tammy: Hi. There should be no fine. It sounds like your mom had to pay the “245(i)” penalty fee of $1,000. 245(i) refers to section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act where an applicant’s work/stay without authorization are excused if, among other things, they pay a fine. April bulletin will be out soon…
@Louryn: Hi. I don’t know how long. Best we can do is keep checking the new visa bulletin each month.
@Jessica: Hi. I’m not comfortable enough with the CSPA to give you any advice. Sorry.
@Joseph S (2/3): It is fine to do both. NVC=consular.
@Tim: Hi. I don’t think EB3 will go forward much more (if at all).
@Gigi Santiago: Hi. I think you have good chances based on your priority date, but anything is possible. I don’t know enough about family immigration to advise about your son. Good luck.
@Lilibeth: Follow up with the consulate. Let us know what happens.
@Ron: Hi. You can only apply for an H-1B six months in advance. The LCA (Labor Condition Application) filed with petition needs to have a start date no more than six months away.
So the best strategy is usually to file the H-1B extension within six months of status expiration, but as early as possible. So if we assume your H-1B status would expire May 2010, the H-1B extension could be filed December 2009.
82 emem // Feb 25, 2008 at 1:14 pm
hi john! I applied fr I824 for my husband and was approved last Dec 6, 2007. My priority date is April 29, 2004 EB3 category. What are the chances of my husband joining me here in US?Thanks
83 Joseph S // Feb 25, 2008 at 5:32 pm
Thank you for your answers…when I dont have all the information I tend to get stresses and ask a lot. You been very helpfull
Sorry if I’m being redundant but I still not clear to me.
If the case is at the NVC I can be 100% that is set for consular processing?
84 tammy // Feb 25, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Thanks John!
That’s what I was thinking…. I’ll have her look in her papers, but I do believe that was it.
On another note, do you think the fact that this American company wanting to hire me, could help me with my immigration?
My hiring is valid until the end of the year.
Tammy
85 Jack Jacob // Feb 25, 2008 at 10:10 pm
Hi John,
what is your prediction for April ‘08 Visa bulletin , EB3 , All ? I heard rumors that it will be current ( or close to current).
86 Thalia // Feb 26, 2008 at 12:45 am
Hi john,
Im a nurse from the philippines under eb3. im worried about my husband because he is positive in hepatitis-b. is there a chance that he can go with us to america? im maybe out of topic but i hope you know about my case. thank you..
87 Babette // Feb 26, 2008 at 3:12 am
Thank you, John for being gracious.
My PD,July 2006, EB3, Papers at NVC and paid immigrant visa processing fee__ should I follow up my papers or is it the duty of the agency lawyer to follow it up. What do you think is my chance of having my immigrant visa this year?
Thank you again.
88 John C // Feb 26, 2008 at 4:23 am
@Emem: Hi. I like your husband’s chances. But it’s possible visas will be used by others with earlier priority dates. The April bulletin will be out soon and that might give some indication.
@Joseph S: My pleasure. Yes, NVC is for consular processing. But why not get the last piece of paper you received and verify this? Your recoreds should indicate where your case currently stands.
@Tammy: My pleasure. The only waiver (that I’m aware of) to the 10-year bar you are facing is an extreme hardship waiver. An extreme hardship waiver requires a showing that a US citizen, who is your immediate family member, would face an extreme hardship if the visa applicant is not allowed in the country. It’s a very difficult burden.
@Jack Jacob: Hi. I’m not sure about the April bulletin. EB3 in the April bulletin will probably go forward a bit or just stay the same. I don’t think it will be current, or even close to current. What rumors are you talking about?
@Thalia: Hi. I don’t know how big a problem this will be. But I’ll try to post something on that in an upcoming post. It will help me learn about it, too.
@Babette: Your priority date of July 2006 is about 18 months outside the cutoff date for EB3 Philippines. I don’t think the dates will go forward very much in EB3, or for EB3 Philippines specifically. But I’ll post the April visa bulletin as soon as it’s out and maybe that will give us a better idea.
89 Mel // Feb 26, 2008 at 5:22 am
John, thank you so much for your reply! I noticed that in a span of one month from Feb. to March, the EB3 dates for Philippines jumped from 2002 to 2005 (correct me if I’m wrong). So I’m hoping the coming April visa bulletin would show substantial movement for EB3 Philippines. I know there are many of us who are keeping our fingers crossed.
90 John C // Feb 26, 2008 at 7:13 am
@Mel: You are correct about EB3 dates jumping forward in the March bulletin. But I’m not as optimistic about the visa dates going forward.
You said:
I think the exact opposite is true and there will be less movement for the EB3 category now because the dates jumped so far forward in the March bulletin.
From what I am hearing (through the American Immigration Lawyers Association and beyond) is that visa dates jumped forward in the March bulletin because the State Department wants to avoid the confusion that happened in last year - in July/August 2007, where all employment-based categories became current. They want to make sure all visa numbers are used before the very end of the fiscal year.
91 emem // Feb 26, 2008 at 12:44 pm
thanks a lot! I called NVC by the way and they asked me to send a photocopy of my I824 approval since they dont have it yet on file. However according to my approval notice they will inform the consulate (manila, philippines) about the approval directly. I am just confused if this is possible that my papers will be forwarded directly to the consulate and curious that till this time, the NVC has not received approval papers from USCIS. PLease advise me. Thanks again!
92 Joseph S // Feb 26, 2008 at 1:12 pm
After the USCIS proved my I140 they sent me a paper saying they will send the case to the NVC. Then I received a letter from the NVC collecting 400$ in fees per person to continue.
So I’ sure the case is at NVC.
Now let’s hope there are enough numbers for me to get assigned this year.
Haven’t received packet # 3 yet, the automatic case status at the NVC contact phone system says they received my fees (last week) and on the next weeks I will receive something (I guess packet #3).
Will let you guys know what happens.
Thank you very much….
93 tammy // Feb 26, 2008 at 4:09 pm
I remember when we were in the States one of the lawyers said we’d be able to show that. As I ended up going there when I was 13, I have no imediate family in Brazil, I am an only daughter/ child. All I’ve is my mom and her husband, and all she has is me. We’ve been apart for 7 years now…
So, would this extreme hardship be the one that needs to be done by the Attorney General? how is that done????
Also my mom would like to know if you are in NY, so she could arrange a consult?
You can send this info by email: [email-was-here]@hotmail.com
Thank you so much for all your help!
94 John C // Feb 27, 2008 at 8:11 am
@Emem: I’m guessing they are just a little slow because the numbers jumped forward so far.
@Joseph S: Good luck! Do let us know what happens.
@Tammy: The application method for an extreme hardship waiver depends on the situation, but someone abroad usually applies at the appropriate consulate when applying for a visa (using Form I-601).
I am about 85 miles from New York City, but I don’t have any experience with a case like this. I might be able to help your mom find the right immigration lawyer in New York to set up a consultation.
[Ed. I've taken Tammy's email out of her public comment so she doesn't get spammed.]
95 Jmee // Feb 27, 2008 at 9:05 am
Hi! I’m a 23 year old nurse from the Philippines. I passed the NCLEX-RN exam Nov 2006 and got my visascreen May 2007…Unfortunately, my EB-3 petition was just filed Oct. 2007. Still no approval til now. Just want to ask if how long it would take me to have my immigrant visa because I’m considering applying for H1-B visa instead. Thanks so much and God bless!
96 John C // Feb 27, 2008 at 9:38 am
@Jmee: Hi. There are a lot of people in front of you. But there is no reason you can’t apply for an H-1B visa while you wait.
You said:
It doesn’t have to be either I-140/I-485 or H-1B. It can be both, and it usually should be.
97 Mel // Feb 27, 2008 at 9:43 am
John, thank you for the info! It’s disheartening news if the April Visa Bulletin shows little or no movement. But hey, as long as it moves forward and not retrogress then I’m happy with that.
I also wanted to ask about the 180 days rule (for name check)…when do we start counting - receipt or notice date? Are there other conditions that should be met in order to be considered?
Thanks again John, we really appreciate your untiring efforts in answering our questions.
98 edz // Feb 27, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Hi John! I really hope that the visa bulletin will move forward until my priority date becomes current and everyone else who are next in line. Godbless you for your great help.
99 Tania // Feb 27, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Hi, John. It’s Tania again. Hope everything is doing well. I would like to ask your honest opinion about changing my status (B1/B2 to F1). I have been thinking about it since I have been inactive for quite some time now while accompanying my daughter here in the U.S. (maybe a nurse refresher course). This would also be a good chance for our daughter to continue her studies here as well while I am also here studying. I plan to attend the Fall 2008 classes and the whole program would take about 2 years. I also have relatives (sister and aunt) who are U.S. citizens willing to sponsor me. Would that be workable since I have an I-140 petition filed last Oct 2007 and a pending I-539 application for extension ? Won’t those applications have an effect on the change of status to F1? I arrived July 2007 and requested for an extension last Dec 10, 2007, 45 days before my allowed stay expired (Jan 24, 2008). I have been waiting for USCIS decision and up to now, the processing dates still show July 2007. I am worried, am I out-of-status now even if I followed the extension-filing guidelines accordingly? Would appreciate your opinion on this and the idea of changing status to F1. Thank you again, John.
100 che-che // Feb 27, 2008 at 2:50 pm
hi john,im a nurse from phil. my employer filed for my immigrant application. i got my receipt notice and it dated may 9, 2007 and it was filed in Nebraska ..im still waiting for my approval from them. how long does it take for them to process my papers in Nebraska? Thank you so much
101 John C // Feb 29, 2008 at 7:26 am
@Mel: It’s my pleasure. You asked about the 180 day rule for FBI name checks… very good question.
I have been wanting to post that February 4th Memo updating USCIS policy on FBI name checks, but I’ve been waiting for the updated Questions and Answers to be released. USCIS finally posted them today.
See New FBI Name Check Policy for I-485 Applicants.
Feel free to drop your questions in the comments.
@Edz: I hope so, too.
@Tania: Hi. Thanks for writing. Your questions involve some complicated issues and are beyond the scope of this site. But I’ll remind you again that you are asking about applying for nonimmigrant visas (student/F and visitor/B2) when you have already filed an immigrant visa (I-140) in October 2007. There must be an immigration attorney, or at least a company, that helped you apply for the I-140 petition. Have you asked them what you should do? Let us know what they say.
@Che-Che: Hi. See these processing times.
102 che-che // Mar 1, 2008 at 8:59 am
hi john. i observed that texas is more faster in processing the applications. and the nebraska is quite slow. is it because nebraska has more applicants as compared to texas service center? thanks..
103 David // Mar 3, 2008 at 5:44 am
Hi John,
Background: My kids and I are derivative beneficiaries (following-to-join) of my wife, who is now a legal permanent resident under an E3 visa. Our priority date is Nov. 20, 2003.
With the movement in the March VB, we’ve now been notified that we’re scheduled for an interview in April, and we’re now putting together the documentary requirements. One thing that confuses us is the Affidavit of Support — there are two forms, Form I-864 and Form I-134. Which one do we use as following-to-join beneficiaries? Thanks!
104 shaina // Mar 3, 2008 at 6:39 am
hi! would like to know if my F2B petition is approved, how long will my papers be processed for NVC/packet 3 filing?
thanks so much!
105 josssy // Mar 3, 2008 at 11:56 pm
Hi Joe my priority date is Sep 2002. could you tell me when I ‘m supposed to be called for interview
106 josssy // Mar 3, 2008 at 11:58 pm
it’s with the F1 GROUP.
107 Anna // Mar 4, 2008 at 4:29 am
after reading all these threads, may I ask what is the definition of a *priority date* for an F4 visa.
Where can I see that once I submitted my application? My brother who is a US citizen plans to apply for me and my family under the F4 immigrant visa .
I am not based in the Phils (but still phil citizen)and my family and I have 10 year multiple entry in the States (up 2015). We’ve travelled in the USA for 2x already, for the past 10 yrs. So my questions are: if ever we submit our application as F4 immig will our current 10 year visitor visa be affected, do u think they will be more strict to my family on our nxt visit since we will be showing our desire to live there permanently. How long does the processing of this F4 visa takes? 5 years? 10 years? does the help of a immigration lawyer speed up the process? do u have any idea abt the fees asked by them?
More power to this website because you have been giving a lot of help to people.
108 mia // Mar 4, 2008 at 6:13 pm
hi
I am a F1 student and a RN not currently working for lack of work permit. I have a I-140 pending, once it is approved, will i still have to go to school?
109 John C // Mar 5, 2008 at 8:17 am
@Che-che: I don’t think it’s quite as simple as that. But the processing dates at the link I provided you earlier are updated regularly so keep checking.
@David: Even USCIS does not know the difference. I use form I-864 for adjustments of status and form I-134 for consular processing.
@Shaina: I’m really not sure. But if you post your location and maybe someone else who has gone through the same will comment.
@Josssy: I wish I knew. The April visa bulletin should be out soon, though. Maybe it will tell us more.
@Anna: The priority date is generally the filing date for your visa petition. For some employment-based categories, the priority date is the date on which the labor certification is filed (before the visa petition). You will find your priority date clearly marked on the receipt notice USCIS provides upon filing the visa petition.
The timing depends on way too many things. But the priority date in the March visa bulletin was February 1986, just to put things in perspective.
I do think filing immigrant visa petitions might affect an existing visitor visa. But it’s definitely not uncommon and, so long as you can provide solid evidence that you will not stay without permission, it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
Hiring an immigration lawyer does not speed up the process, by itself. But an immigration lawyer can evaluate your situation and help you find the best solution. Immigration lawyers need to be creative and intimately familiar with the constantly changing laws. The fees for an immigration lawyer vary depending on a lot of factors. I worked at a large firm where the lead immigration attorney billed at over $400 per hour. But I have also heard of attorneys charging less than $600 for an H-1B visa petition (I don’t know how they do it).
Try asking some of your friends if they can recommend an immigration lawyer. If that doesn’t work, try to set up an appointment with an attorney (or several attorneys) on your next trip to the US. Call the local bar associations in that area to get a recommendation. You can also find out an awful lot about an immigration lawyer using Google. Unfortunately, some immigration lawyers (just like any other occupation) are not the most trustworthy. You really have to use your “gut” to determine whether you’ve found the right lawyer for you. Good luck.
@Mia: Hi. You can only apply for your green card (and receive temporary work authorization) if the cutoff date for your category moves past your priority date. Where are you from?
110 Mia // Mar 5, 2008 at 9:35 pm
I am from congo in africa
111 shaina // Mar 6, 2008 at 12:13 am
thanks John! Im from the Philippines and have seenmovements in via bulletin since last yr. I just too excited to know how long the process would be if my petition will b approced. thanks in advance
112 sussie // Mar 6, 2008 at 12:54 am
hi all this visa bulletin is new to me………i would like to know how long it would take for me to get my visa.
category:f1
date:feb.2006
113 che-che // Mar 6, 2008 at 2:55 pm
hi john, when do u think are they gonna post the April visa bulletin? I really hope it will move for EB3 Phil and the other countries also..nurses are waiting frantically for the movement.Thank you, God bless your site..it has been very helpful for many of us.
114 Ran // Mar 6, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Hi John,
EB3 Philippines,PD Jan 2006, Do you think there is a posibility for my PD to be current this year?
115 jess // Mar 6, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Dear John,
I sponsored my wife and she’s in category 2A. Her priority date is sep.11.2003
Thank you
116 edskie // Mar 7, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Hi John,
Can you please tell us where i can find my priority date? Thanks
117 John C // Mar 9, 2008 at 7:17 am
@Mia: Did you file your I-485 at the same time? Or was your priority date not current? I’m assuming you didn’t. You can’t file your I-485 (and work authorization) until the cutoff date for your category moves past your priority date. The more info you provide, the better I can answer.
@Shaina: The processing times vary and depend on a lot of factors. But most consulates will send out notices and schedule appointments within a matter of weeks.
@Sussie: Hi. Welcome. Where are you from? The visa numbers vary based on your country of birth.
@