US Visa Backlog Clears: EB-5 Visa Date for Indian Investors Jumps 6 Months, Green Card Queue Clears

The US Department of State's August 2025 Visa Bulletin has brought relief for Indian EB-5 applicants, with the Final Action Date for India moving forward by six months to November 15, 2019. This sharp movement offers hope for Indian applicants waiting in a lengthy queue. The EB-5 visa program, which allows foreign investors to obtain US permanent residency, has become increasingly popular among Indian families seeking a direct route to a green card.

Title: US Department of State's August 2025 Visa Bulletin Offers Hope for Indian EB-5 Applicants

The US Department of State's August 2025 Visa Bulletin has brought relief for Indian EB-5 applicants, with the Final Action Date for India moving forward by six months to November 15, 2019. This sharp movement offers hope for Indian applicants waiting in a lengthy queue. The EB-5 visa program, which allows foreign investors to obtain US permanent residency, has become increasingly popular among Indian families seeking a direct route to a green card.

The August 2025 Visa Bulletin reveals that the Final Action Date for India in the EB-5 Unreserved category has advanced significantly, from May 1, 2019, to November 15, 2019. This advancement is particularly encouraging for Indian investors who have been eagerly awaiting their turn in the immigration process. The EB-5 category is designed to attract foreign investment, and the progress in the Final Action Date indicates a potential decrease in wait times for Indian applicants.

However, it is essential to note that while the advancement in the EB-5 category is a positive development, other employment-based visa categories remain stagnant or face potential retrogression. The EB-2 and EB-3 categories, which are crucial for skilled workers and professionals, have seen no movement in their Final Action Dates. The State Department has warned that these categories are nearing their annual visa limits, which could lead to retrogression or make these categories unavailable in the near future.

The Visa Bulletin provides crucial information for individuals navigating the Green Card application process. The "Dates for Filing" section specifies the earliest date applicants can submit their adjustment of status or immigrant visa applications, while the "Final Action Dates" section estimates the wait time for application approval. Understanding these dates is vital for planning immigration journeys effectively.

For Indian applicants, the EB-3 category has advanced by one month, from April 22, 2023, to May 22, 2013. This modest progress is the only forward movement for Indian employment-based applicants in the August 2025 Visa Bulletin. The EB-1 and EB-2 categories remain unchanged, with their Final Action Dates holding at February 15, 2022, and January 1, 2013, respectively.

The State Department's warning about potential retrogression in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories underscores the importance of staying informed about the Visa Bulletin. Applicants should closely monitor these dates and be prepared for potential changes in their immigration status. The Visa Bulletin is a critical tool for understanding the timeline for adjusting immigration status and eligibility based on application submission.

In conclusion, the August 2025 Visa Bulletin offers a glimmer of hope for Indian EB-5 applicants with the advancement in the Final Action Date. However, the stagnation in other employment-based categories and the potential for retrogression highlight the need for vigilance and strategic planning in the immigration process. As the US immigration system continues to evolve, it is crucial for applicants to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.

References:
[1] https://m.economictimes.com/nri/migrate/green-card-update-us-august-visa-bulletin-shows-indians-on-this-queue-advancing-by-a-month-others-stagnant/articleshow/122487612.cms
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/immigration/us-august-visa-bulletin-brings-mixed-news-for-indian-green-card-applicants-125071500533_1.html