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October 2026 Visa Bulletin: EB-1, EB-2 and EB-3 dates explained
The new fiscal year opened with modest movement, an EB-2 retrogression for most countries — and a welcome decision to accept the Dates for Filing chart.
The October 2026 Visa Bulletin opened fiscal year 2027, when annual immigrant visa numbers reset. It was released unusually late — on September 29 — and the movement it brought is modest, with several categories holding or moving backward.
Final action dates: what changed
For applicants born in most countries (“rest of world”), EB-1 remains current. EB-2 retrogressed from current to January 1, 2025, which means only applicants with a priority date earlier than that can be approved this month. EB-3 professionals moved back to May 15, 2024. India and China continue to wait longer, with EB-1 India advancing five months to February 1, 2023.
The good news: Dates for Filing
USCIS confirmed it will accept I-485 applications using the Dates for Filing chart in October. That chart is more generous than final action dates — for rest-of-world EB-2 it adds roughly 14.5 months. If your priority date is earlier than the filing date, you can file adjustment of status now and, in most cases, apply for a work permit and travel document while you wait.
Who should act now
- EB-2 NIW and EB-2 applicants with an approved or pending I-140 whose priority date falls before the Dates for Filing cutoff.
- Spouses and children who will file as derivatives alongside the principal applicant.
- Anyone whose nonimmigrant status (H-1B, O-1, L-1) is close to its limit and who needs a pending I-485 for continuity.
Before you file
Filing early only helps if the package is complete. Since August 2026, USCIS may deny incomplete filings without first issuing a Request for Evidence, so medical exams, civil documents and translations should be ready before you submit.
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Frequently asked questions
What does “current” mean in the Visa Bulletin?+
It means there is no backlog in that category for your country of birth: anyone with an approved petition can move forward without waiting for a priority date.
Which chart does USCIS use this month?+
For October 2026, USCIS accepts employment-based I-485 filings under the Dates for Filing chart. Consulates always use the Final Action Dates chart.
Sources
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