Reading the Visa Bulletin

How to read the monthly DOS Visa Bulletin to track your green card priority date and understand when you can file.

Overview

The U.S. Department of State publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin that shows current cutoff dates for each employment-based preference category and country of birth. Understanding the Visa Bulletin is essential for every Indian H-1B worker awaiting a green card.

For Indians Moving From India

If you are in India with an approved I-140 (filed by a prior or current employer) and are waiting to immigrate, the Final Action Date in the Visa Bulletin tells you when a visa number will become available for your priority date and category. Consular processing applicants use the Final Action Date exclusively.

For Indians Already in the US

If you are adjusting status inside the U.S. (Form I-485), watch both Chart A (Dates for Filing) and Chart B (Final Action Dates). In months when USCIS accepts Chart A filings, you may be able to file I-485 before your Final Action Date is current — which immediately unlocks Advance Parole travel and EAD work authorization for your spouse.

Key Information

The Visa Bulletin has two charts: Chart A (Dates for Filing) and Chart B (Final Action Dates). Chart B shows when USCIS will actually approve green cards. Chart A shows earlier dates when I-485 filing may be permitted in certain months. For Indian EB-2 and EB-3, cutoff dates can lag by decades.

Requirements

An approved I-140 with a priority date earlier than the current Visa Bulletin cutoff for your category and country of birth.

Common Mistakes

Missing the brief filing windows when USCIS accepts Chart A dates. Filing I-485 as early as possible has major practical benefits: it locks in your priority date, grants Advance Parole, and allows your spouse to obtain an EAD.

Practical Tips

Sign up for USCIS email alerts and check the Visa Bulletin each month when it is released (typically mid-month for the following month). Work with your immigration attorney to ensure your I-485 is filed the moment your date is current.