January 2016 Visa Bulletin Official Insights and Predictions

Each month, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) explains key aspects of the visa bulletin contents through Charles Oppenheim, Chief of the Visa Control and Reporting Division. The January 2016 Visa Bulletin information discusses the expectations for the employment-based, second preference (EB2) India category as well as employment-based, third preference (EB3) worldwide. Mr. Oppenheim also provides information on the creation of a new list for cases pending at the National Visa Center.

India: Employment-Based, Second Preference (EB2)

Consistent with prior predictions, the EB2 India cutoff date in the final action (FA) chart advances by eight months, to February 1, 2008. The DOS projects a maximum monthly advancement of eight months per month over the upcoming months. However, that is an optimistic estimate. The DOS believes that the actual movement may be four-to-six months per month. This, too, matches prior predictions.

Worldwide: Employment-Based, Third Preference (EB3)

The FA cutoff date in EB3 worldwide hits October 15, 2015 in January 2016. The DOS had anticipated more demand for visa numbers in this category, based upon the cutoff date progress this past fiscal year. However, reports from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to the DOS do not reflect the expected demand levels. For the time being, the DOS does not plan further rapid advancement in this category.

Visa Waiting List

The February 2016 Visa Bulletin will contain information about a National Visa Center (NVC) waiting list. This list will be for cases pending at the NVC as of November 1, 2015. The NVC is involved in processing those cases that have opted to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate abroad. The NVC is not involved with adjustment-of-status (I-485) filings.

Conclusion

As always, the predictions and explanations provided by Mr. Oppenheim are appreciated. Stay tuned to MurthyDotCom for future visa bulletin updates.

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