Exciting Green Card Update Announced for Applicants

The U.S. State Department has unveiled the November 2025 visa bulletin, bringing limited changes for green card applicants. This bulletin is crucial for those aiming to become lawful permanent residents, as it defines when applicants can proceed with significant immigration steps.

Importance of the Visa Bulletin

The Visa Bulletin serves as a central resource for immigrants and their families navigating the green card process. The pace at which visa cut-off dates shift can drastically affect the waiting period, which might stretch from months to years.

Key Details from the November Update

The November bulletin features two critical charts: the “Final Action Date” (FAD) and “Dates for Filing” (DOF). When an applicant’s priority date precedes the DOF, they become eligible to file Form I-485 for immigration status adjustment. Conversely, if it is before the FAD, a visa number is available, potentially leading to case approval.

Significant Changes in Dates

• FAD F2B (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of Permanent Residents) India: Progressed nine days to December 1, 2016.
• FAD F3 (Married Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens) Mexico: Moved from April 15, 2001, to May 1, 2001.
• DOF F1 (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens) Mexico: Advanced to March 1, 2007.
• DOF F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents) China, India, Mexico, Philippines: Progressed to October 22, 2025.
• DOF F2B (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of Permanent Residents) China, India: Moved to March 8, 2017; Mexico advanced to May 15, 2009.

Employment-based categories retained their previous dates from October.

Expert Insights

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) emphasizes that visa availability is paramount before finalizing permanent residency steps. Due to a higher demand for immigrant visas than supply, cutoff dates regulate the issuance within legal limits. Variances in wait times correspond to the priority date, preference category, and assigned country.

Anticipation for the Next Bulletin

The visa bulletin remains a vital guide for understanding the complexities of U.S. immigration. The upcoming December 2025 bulletin is expected to be released mid-November, providing further insight and direction.