The February 2025 US Visa Bulletin has been released with some welcome news for Indian and Chinese applicants in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories. Both countries have seen positive movement, offering hope to green card seekers. However, while advancements are evident for some categories, others remain stagnant. In this blog, we’ll dive into the latest updates from the February 2025 US Visa Bulletin, explain the difference between Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing, and offer clarity on how these updates can impact your immigration process.
Advancements for India and China EB Categories for February 2025 US Visa Bulletin
Key Highlights from the February 2025 US Visa Bulletin
In the February 2025 US Visa Bulletin, the USCIS has made adjustments to employment-based and family-sponsored green card categories. These changes reflect important developments for applicants, especially those from India and China. Understanding these changes will help you plan your next steps effectively.
Employment-Based Green Card Updates: Advancements for India and China
The February 2025 Visa Bulletin marks positive movement for EB-2 and EB-3 applicants from India and China. Let’s break down the Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing for these categories.
Final Action Dates for Employment-Based Categories:
| Employment-Based Category | India | China (Mainland Born) | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-1 (Priority Workers) | February 1, 2022 | November 8, 2022 | C (Current) | C (Current) |
| EB-2 (Advanced Degree Holders) | October 15, 2012 | April 22, 2020 | April 1, 2023 | April 1, 2023 |
| EB-3 (Skilled Workers & Professionals) | December 15, 2012 | July 1, 2020 | December 1, 2022 | December 1, 2022 |
| Other Workers (EB-3) | December 15, 2012 | January 1, 2017 | December 8, 2020 | December 8, 2020 |
| EB-4 (Certain Special Immigrants) | January 1, 2021 | January 1, 2021 | January 1, 2021 | January 1, 2021 |
| EB-5 (Employment Creation) | January 1, 2022 | July 15, 2016 | C (Current) | C (Current) |
- India and China (EB-2, EB-3 Categories): The EB-2 and EB-3 categories have seen a two-week advancement for India, and a one-month movement for China in the EB-3 Professional/Skilled Workers category.
- Other Employment-Based Categories: Most other employment-based categories remain unchanged in the February 2025 Visa Bulletin.
Dates for Filing Employment-Based Visa Applications:
| Employment-Based Category | India | China (Mainland Born) | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-1 (Priority Workers) | April 15, 2022 | January 1, 2023 | C (Current) | C (Current) |
| EB-2 (Advanced Degree Holders) | January 1, 2013 | October 1, 2020 | August 1, 2023 | August 1, 2023 |
| EB-3 (Skilled Workers & Professionals) | June 8, 2013 | November 15, 2020 | March 1, 2023 | March 1, 2023 |
| Other Workers (EB-3) | June 8, 2013 | January 1, 2018 | May 22, 2021 | May 22, 2021 |
| EB-4 (Certain Special Immigrants) | February 1, 2021 | February 1, 2021 | February 1, 2021 | February 1, 2021 |
| EB-5 (Employment Creation) | April 1, 2022 | October 1, 2016 | C (Current) | C (Current) |
- India and China: The EB-2 and EB-3 filing dates for India have moved, allowing applicants to submit their applications earlier.
- Mexico & Philippines: Both countries have current filing dates, indicating no waiting period for some categories.
Family-Sponsored Green Card Updates: Final Action Dates and Filing Dates
In addition to employment-based categories, there are updates in family-sponsored green card categories as well. The February 2025 Visa Bulletin shows the following changes for various countries:
Family-Sponsored Final Action Dates:
| Family-Sponsored Category | India | China (Mainland Born) | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of US Citizens) | November 22, 2015 | November 22, 2015 | November 22, 2004 | March 8, 2012 |
| F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents) | January 1, 2022 | January 1, 2022 | May 15, 2021 | January 1, 2022 |
| F2B (Unmarried Sons/Daughters (21+) of Permanent Residents) | May 22, 2016 | May 22, 2016 | July 1, 2005 | October 22, 2011 |
| F3 (Married Sons/Daughters of US Citizens) | July 1, 2010 | July 1, 2010 | November 22, 2000 | November 8, 2002 |
| F4 (Siblings of Adult US Citizens) | April 8, 2006 | August 1, 2007 | March 1, 2001 | May 1, 2004 |
- India: Family-sponsored categories for India have seen little advancement this month.
- Mexico and the Philippines: F1 and F3 categories show signs of progress, but there are still long waiting times for some family-sponsored visas.
Family-Sponsored Dates for Filing Visa Applications:
| Family-Sponsored Category | India | China (Mainland Born) | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of US Citizens) | September 1, 2017 | September 1, 2017 | October 1, 2005 | April 22, 2015 |
| F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents) | July 15, 2024 | July 15, 2024 | July 15, 2024 | July 15, 2024 |
| F2B (Unmarried Sons/Daughters (21+) of Permanent Residents) | January 1, 2017 | January 1, 2017 | October 1, 2006 | October 1, 2013 |
| F3 (Married Sons/Daughters of US Citizens) | July 22, 2012 | July 22, 2012 | June 15, 2001 | May 8, 2004 |
| F4 (Siblings of Adult US Citizens) | August 15, 2006 | March 1, 2008 | April 30, 2001 | January 1, 2008 |
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
The February 2025 US Visa Bulletin provides crucial updates for applicants. Applicants from India and China in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories can expect shorter wait times as these categories have advanced. For family-sponsored visa applicants, some categories show progress, but many still have long waiting periods. Keep track of your priority date and be aware of both Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing to maximize your chances of timely processing.
Stay Informed and Take Action
The February 2025 US Visa Bulletin reveals some important advancements, particularly for Indian and Chinese applicants. Whether you are seeking an employment-based green card or a family-sponsored visa, staying up-to-date with the bulletin will help you navigate the complex process more effectively.
For more information and the latest updates, be sure to visit the official US Department of State Visa Bulletin.
