CHOOSING YOUR PATH TO U.S. PERMANENT RESIDENCY
Visa backlogs and priority dates
Visa Backlogs & Priority Dates: A Key to Successful U.S. Immigration
The U.S. immigration process is not always swift. One of the primary reasons for this is the visa backlog – a substantial delay that impacts many applicants for U.S. visas. Understanding the nature of these backlogs and how they influence the visa process is crucial for successful immigration. At Babila Law, we’re here to help you navigate this complex system.
Decoding Visa Backlogs:
Visa backlogs occur when the demand for visas exceeds the supply. Every year, U.S. law sets numerical limits on the number of immigrant visas (or Green Cards) that can be issued. A backlog is created when the demand for visas in a particular category or country exceeds this annual limit. These backlogs can lead to substantial waiting periods, sometimes several years before a visa becomes available.
Priority Dates – Your Spot in the Line:
Every family-based or employment-based immigration petition has a “Priority Date.” This date, typically the day U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) received your visa petition, signifies your place in the visa queue.
How do you know when your turn is up? The Department of State publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin that lists the availability of immigrant visa numbers. A visa is available if your priority date is earlier than the date listed in the Visa Bulletin for your visa category and country of origin.
The Importance of Priority Dates:
Your priority date is the ticket to your visa processing. It’s crucial to note that while the visa petition process can move forward without a visa number, the final step of granting an immigrant visa or adjusting status can only be completed once a visa number is available.
