The May 2026 Visa Bulletin shows continued forward movement across several categories, particularly in Family-Based preferences, while Employment-Based categories remain mostly stable. However, the Department of State has issued an important warning that EB-5 India may face retrogression or become unavailable later this fiscal year due to rising demand .
Employment-Based Preferences: Final Action Dates
EB-1: Priority Workers
- India:Â April 1, 2023 (unchanged)
- China:Â April 1, 2023 (unchanged)
- All Others:Â Current
EB-2: Advanced Degree / Exceptional Ability
- India:Â July 15, 2014 (advances)
- China:Â September 1, 2021 (unchanged)
- All Others:Â Current
EB-3: Skilled Workers & Professionals
- India:Â November 15, 2013 (unchanged)
- China:Â June 15, 2021 (advances)
- All Others:Â June 1, 2024 (unchanged)
EB-3 Other Workers
- India:Â November 15, 2013 (unchanged)
- China:Â February 1, 2019 (advances)
- All Others:Â February 1, 2022 (advances)
EB-4: Certain Special Immigrants
- All Countries:Â July 15, 2022 (advances)
Certain Religious Workers (SR)
- All Countries:Â July 15, 2022
- Program remains extended
EB-5: Unreserved
- India:Â May 1, 2022 (unchanged)
- China:Â September 22, 2016 (advances)
- All Others:Â Current
EB-5 Set-Asides (Rural, High Unemployment, Infrastructure)
- All Chargeability Areas:Â Current
Family-Based Preferences: Final Action Dates
F1 (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens)
- India/China/Other Countries:Â September 1, 2017 (advances)
- Mexico:Â August 15, 2007 (advances)
- Philippines:Â May 1, 2013 (unchanged)
F2A (Spouses/Children of LPRs)
- All Countries:Â August 1, 2024 (advances)
- Mexico:Â August 1, 2023 (advances)
F2B (Unmarried Sons/Daughters of LPRs)
- India/China/Other Countries:Â May 22, 2017 (unchanged)
- Mexico:Â February 15, 2009 (unchanged)
- Philippines:Â April 8, 2013 (unchanged)
F3 (Married Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens)
- All Countries:Â February 15, 2012 (advances)
- Mexico:Â May 1, 2001 (unchanged)
- Philippines:Â November 22, 2005 (advances)
F4 (Siblings of U.S. Citizens)
- India:Â November 1, 2006 (unchanged)
- Mexico:Â April 8, 2001 (unchanged)
- Philippines:Â July 15, 2007 (advances)
- Others:Â September 15, 2008 (advances)
Key Takeaways
- Family-Based categories show strong forward movement, especially F1, F2A, F3, and F4.
- EB-2 India advances significantly, offering a meaningful opportunity for applicants.
- EB-3 China and Other Workers categories continue gradual progress.
- EB-5 China advances, but India faces potential retrogression due to increased demand.
- The Department of State warns that retrogression later in FY 2026 remains possible if demand rises .
FAQ: May 2026 Visa Bulletin
Q1: Why is EB-2 India advancing this month?
Higher visa availability and lower-than-expected demand earlier in FY 2026 have allowed forward movement.
Q2: What is the warning about EB-5 India?
The Department of State indicates that demand may exceed limits, which could cause retrogression or unavailability later this year.
Q3: Are Family-Based categories improving?
Yes. Several categories, especially F2A and F3, are moving forward steadily.
Q4: Should applicants file now if eligible?
Yes. With potential retrogression later in the year, filing early is strongly recommended.
Need Strategic Help?
Visa Bulletin changes can significantly impact your immigration strategy. For individualized legal guidance, contact NPZ Law Group at info@visaserve.com or call 551-400-6461, ext. 104. Stay updated at www.visaserve.com.