The U.S. Department of State has released its Visa Bulletin for May 2024, outlining critical updates and guidelines for individuals seeking family-sponsored visas.
Understanding the intricacies of this bulletin is essential for applicants and their families as they navigate the immigration process.
May 2024 Visa Bulletin: Family-Sponsored Preferences Overview
The Visa Bulletin organizes family-sponsored preferences into four categories:
- First Preference (F1): This category applies to unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. The final action date for F1 is January 1, 2017, for all chargeability areas, except China, India, Mexico, and the Philippines, which have their specific dates.
- Second Preference (F2): Split into two subcategories:
- F2A: Spouses and children of permanent residents. For all countries, including China, India, Mexico, and the Philippines, F2A is current (marked as “C”), meaning applicants can file regardless of their priority date.
- F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years or older) of permanent residents. The final action date for F2B is January 1, 2017, for all chargeability areas except India, which has its specific date.
- Third Preference (F3): This category encompasses married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. The final action date for F3 is February 8, 2010, for all chargeability areas, except for the Philippines, which has its specific date.
- Fourth Preference (F4): Reserved for brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens. The final action date for F4 is February 1, 2008, for all chargeability areas except Mexico, which has its specific date.
| Family- Sponsored | All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed | CHINA- mainland born | INDIA | MEXICO | PHILIPPINES |
| F1 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01DEC02 | 22APR15 |
| F2A | C | C | C | C | |
| F2B | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN02 | 01OCT13 |
| F3 | 08FEB10 | 08FEB10 | 08FEB10 | 15JUN01 | 08NOV03 |
| F4 | 01FEB08 | 01FEB08 | 22FEB06 | 01APR01 | 22APR04 |
Actionable Dates for Filing Visa Applications
The Visa Bulletin also provides dates for filing visa applications, indicating when applicants can submit their documentation to the National Visa Center.
These dates are crucial for determining when immediate action is warranted in the application process. As of May 2024:
- The application date for F1, F2A, and F2B categories is January 1, 2017, for all chargeability areas except Mexico, the Philippines, and India.
- For F3 applicants, the application date is February 8, 2010, for all chargeability areas except the Philippines, which has its specific date.
- For F4 applicants, the application date is February 1, 2008, for all chargeability areas except Mexico, which has its specific date.
Related: May 2024 Visa Bulletin: Employment-Based Green Card Options Remain Limited
Key Considerations
- Applicants should closely monitor the final action dates and application dates relevant to their situation.
- Priority dates play a crucial role, as applicants can only file their visa applications if their priority date is earlier than the listed final action or application date.
- The exemption of certain countries from per-country limits underscores the complexity of the visa allocation process.
Conclusion
As immigration policies evolve, staying informed about visa bulletin updates is paramount for prospective immigrants and their families.
By understanding the nuances of the May 2024 Visa Bulletin, applicants can make informed decisions and take appropriate steps toward achieving their immigration goals.
For further guidance and clarification, applicants must consult with immigration professionals or visit the official USCIS website for additional information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.