The March 2025 US Visa Bulletin has arrived, bringing good news for Indian nationals seeking a green card under employment-based categories. The new bulletin has marked significant progress for those in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories, offering hope to many who have been waiting for their turn to apply for permanent residency in the United States. If you are one of the many people waiting for your priority date to become current, this update is crucial for you.
In this article, we will break down the key changes in the March 2025 US Visa Bulletin, focusing on the new priority dates for Indian applicants in various categories. We’ll also explain what these changes mean for those applying for the EB-2, EB-3, and other visa categories.
What is the March 2025 US Visa Bulletin?
The March 2025 US Visa Bulletin is a monthly update released by the U.S. Department of State, providing the latest information about the availability of immigrant visa numbers for individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States. This bulletin plays a pivotal role in determining when individuals can apply for a green card, based on their priority date and the availability of visas in various categories.
Key Changes in Employment-Based Visa Categories
The most significant news in the March 2025 US Visa Bulletin revolves around the changes in the final action dates for employment-based visas. For Indian nationals, the EB-2 and EB-3 categories have made notable advancements:
| Visa Category | Previous Final Action Date | New Final Action Date | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| EB-2 (Skilled Workers) | 15th October 2012 | 1st December 2012 | 6 weeks |
| EB-3 (Professional & Skilled Workers) | 15th December 2012 | 1st February 2013 | 6 weeks |
EB-2 and EB-3 Categories See Progress
For EB-2 applicants from India, the final action date has advanced by six weeks, from 15th October 2012 to 1st December 2012. Meanwhile, EB-3 applicants, both skilled professionals and other workers, also saw a six-week jump, with the final action date now moving from 15th December 2012 to 1st February 2013.
This progress in the March 2025 US Visa Bulletin is highly encouraging for those who have been stuck in the backlog for years. While it may seem like a modest shift, every step forward means one step closer to obtaining a green card and achieving permanent residency in the United States.
What About EB-1, EB-4, and EB-5?
Not all categories saw advancement in this bulletin. The EB-1 category (for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors, and multinational managers) and the EB-5 category (for investors) remained unchanged. However, the EB-4 category, which applies to certain religious workers and other special immigrants, saw a significant setback.
- The EB-4 category has moved backward by approximately 1.5 years, with the final action date shifting from 1st January 2021 to 1st August 2019.
- The EB-5 category remains unchanged.
This shift could make it harder for those applying under the EB-4 category, especially for religious workers whose visa program is set to end on 14th March 2025 unless extended.
A Look at Other Categories
While the EB-2 and EB-3 categories have advanced, it is important to note that family-sponsored visa categories have remained stable. The final action dates for family-based immigration remain consistent with previous months, and there have been no changes in the filing dates for Indian nationals in family-sponsored categories.
This consistency might be a relief for those waiting in line for family-based green cards.
What Do These Changes Mean for Indian Applicants?
The key takeaway from the March 2025 US Visa Bulletin is that Indian nationals applying for employment-based green cards under the EB-2 and EB-3 categories are now closer to their goal. With the new priority dates, those waiting in the backlog might now have a clearer path forward, potentially leading to faster processing times and better chances of securing a green card.
Steps to Take After the March 2025 Visa Bulletin Update
- Check Your Priority Date: If you’re an applicant under EB-2 or EB-3, check your priority date against the new dates provided in the bulletin.
- Prepare for Adjustment of Status: If your priority date is current, be ready to file your adjustment of status (I-485) or consular processing application.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye on future visa bulletins, as the dates may continue to shift, either advancing or delaying depending on the demand.
The March 2025 US Visa Bulletin has brought some positive news for Indian green card applicants, particularly those under the EB-2 and EB-3 categories. With a six-week movement forward in both categories, many applicants can now expect their priority dates to become current soon. If you’re waiting for your turn, the latest visa bulletin signals a step closer to achieving your American Dream. Keep track of future updates and take the necessary steps to ensure your application is ready when your priority date is reached.
For those in other categories like EB-1, EB-4, and EB-5, while the news may not be as positive, the path to permanent residency is still open, albeit with more patience required.
Remember: Stay informed, keep your documents in order, and seek professional guidance if needed to navigate the immigration process effectively.
