Tuesday, June 10, 2014

July 2014 Visa Bulletin and Analysis


July 2014 Visa Bulletin was released earlier today. 

EB2:

Date for EB2 India is 01 SEP 08 and EB2 China is 22 JUL 09. The cut-off for all other EB2 countries are Current.

Good News !!! EB2 India dates have moved finally. Also, EB2 China keeps moving forward, two months this time.

If you are becoming current in July and if you are going to file I-485, please make sure to contact your immigration lawyer now and get the relevant documents. If you file on July 1, 2014, you are increasing your chances of getting GC this year.

If you are waiting to file I-485, please use this opportunity to gather all the documents and keep it in place:

EB3:

Cut-off dates for EB3 India is 01 NOV 03 and EB3 Philippines is 01 JAN 09 and EB3 China is 01 OCT 06 and all other countries is 01 APR 11.

Good news here is EB3 India date has moved 2 weeks and EB3 Philippines date has moved one year

No movement for Others. 

Apparently, there is lot of "downgrade" from EB2 China to EB3 China.

I-485 Pending inventory:

Current I-485 inventory shows data till 1 APR 2014. For EB2 India, there are 31,187 pending applications, whose priority is before 01 MAY 2010. For EB3 India, it is 30,992 applicants before 01 SEPT 2007 Priority date. 

What to Expect Next Few Months:

For EB3 India - I am hoping it will move 2 weeks every Visa Bulletin, at the very least one week.

For EB2 India,

My calculation says, it will move to 01 MAR 09 by Sept 2014 Visa Bulletin. There are few law firms that say, it might move as much as 01 SEP 09. We have to wait and watch. Of-course, more the merrier.

Then, the next question is what might happen after that.

Last year the dates for EB2 India was like this:
Jul 2013 -- 01SEP04
Aug 2013 -- 01JAN08
Sep 2013 -- 15JUN08
Oct 2013 -- 15JUN08
Nov 2013 -- 15JUN08

Dec 2013 -- 15NOV04

I expect pretty much the same. The dates will move till Sept VB. Then, stay put for one month or two months. Then, retrogress back. I think it will retrogress again to say, 15 DEC 04 in November 2014 Visa Bulletin. It totally depends on what strategy DOS wants to follow this time.


Links:

You can see the official July 2014 Visa Bulletin here - http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/law-and-policy/bulletin/2014/visa-bulletin-for-july-2014.html 

You can see the official I-485 pending inventory Data here - 
http://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-through-job/previous-pending-employment-based-i-485-inventory/pending-employment-based-i-485-inventory

233 comments:

  1. Thanks so much for your great work. I got EAD in 2013. PD - EB2I - Dec 2007. Got RFE in April and responded. Will I get GC this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Most likely unless your file is not picked. Good luck

      Delete
    2. What is your current status in uscis website?

      Delete
    3. If all the documents are acceptable to USCIS, you should get it in July 2014.

      Delete
    4. Request for evidence response review is the current status on USCIS site. Thank you all for the answers.

      Delete
  2. Hi Ambals,

    Thanks for your analysis. it's very informative. My PD is NOV 2008 EB2I. If my PD becomes current in Aug bulletin, I will be filing I485 for the first time. Do you see first time I485 filers getting GC this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If it remains current for 3 months, there is a chance to get GC.

      Delete
  3. My priority date is August 2010. Is there any chance for us this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Madhavi,

      Mine is also Aug 2010. Ambals told me once we can expect it to get current towards the end of next year (2015).

      Delete
    2. if you look at the data, mid and late 2010 have a realistic chance only mid or late 2016. This is because even if yours gets current in late 2015, the date will retrogress before your file is touched. It takes at least 3 months for files to move from archive to approval. Assuming they are already "pre-approved", there may still be RFE issues.

      Delete
    3. P.S.--Getting current and getting the GC are not the same. Becoming "current" is necessary but not sufficient.

      Delete
    4. There might be a chance in Summer 2015.

      Delete
  4. Ambals, My pd Is 17-Dec-2008 Eb2 India, Do you think it will be current by August visa bulletin? If so, what are the chances of getting GC this year, would you suggest me to go for the medicals(vaccination) now? Thanks for your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would wait for it to become current to go for Medical. But, you can do the vaccinations anytime and keep the records ready.
      Yes. I think it will become current in August.

      Delete
  5. Ambals, My pd Is 17-Dec-2008 Eb2 India, Do you think it will be current by August visa bulletin? If so, what are the chances of getting GC this year, would you suggest me to go for the medicals(vaccination) now? Thanks for your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 1) Your date will be current on Aug 1 (read Fragoman update, where they say the State department predicts to move up to Feb 2009).

      2) It is my opinion that unless there is an RFE, no need to do medicals early. We still do not know if all people are going to get RFEs. In July, we will know if people get greened without any RFEs.

      Delete
    2. you can do the vaccinations. But, wait for medical till your date becomes current if you have not filed I-485 yet.

      Delete
  6. Can you tell me if and when eb3 might retrogress

    ReplyDelete
  7. hello Ambal, my pd is nov 19 2008. Do you think there we might get GC this year being first time filing. is there anything we need to keep ready. Please advise.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't think you can get the GC this year. Your date will be current on Aug 1. even if your application reaches the USCIS on Aug 1 with all documents in order, at some point in October, internal retrogression will set in and the date will officially retrogress in November. The USCIS cannot process your application in 2 months.

      This year, you will get only the EAD and next year should be the one when you get the GC.

      Delete
    2. Thank you so much. I appreciate your time for replying.Thanks.

      Delete
    3. If you file it on the first date when PD becomes current, and if the dates are current for 3 months, you have a chance to get GC.

      Delete
    4. You get a list of documents here -- http://ambals.blogspot.com/2013/07/getting-ready-to-file-i-485.html

      Delete
  8. Great work. Just wanted to say thank you and hope you continue to do this good work.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thanks for the Analysis on the July 2014 VB so quickly.

    When do you think my PD(Oct 2009 EB2I) will be current again.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is my opinion that this PD will be current in 2015.

      Delete
    2. Thanks Ambals and Anonymous for your quick response.

      Delete
    3. Hello Ambals,

      I see some of I-485 cases(EB2I) with Oct 2009 PD getting RFEs now.

      Could you please provide any Insight on this.

      Appreciate your commitment and help to the community.

      Delete
  10. My Priority date is Jan 2008, EB2 India. I got EAD in Oct 2013. When can I expect Green card?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It all depends on the number that you see in the Demand data that is published by DOS.

      Delete
    2. I am also in the same boat but not sure we can get the GC in July as tons of folks have filed way back in 2011,2012 with dates near our area. I have a feeling USCIS might give preference to them based on filing date. I hope the GC comes through soon. Totally frustrated for last 7 years

      Delete
  11. RD: 18 Oct 2013
    PD: Feb 2007
    Got ead last year, how long it might take for GC?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As early as July 1. Hopefully by end of July 2014.

      Delete
  12. Sitting with my priority date at April 2nd 2009 - I guess this year even the date starts to matter and not just month and year ... fingers crossed !!

    ReplyDelete
  13. Question on medicals : Got EAD in 2013. PD July 2007... I think medicals were done last year mid july if am not wrong. Is there a need to re-do medicals can u please advice ?
    Wife already got RFE on medicals which was responded start of this year. what are chances of getting GC for both of us?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If there are no RFE, you should get by end of July 2014.

      Delete
    2. Wife RFE on medicals already responded in Jan 2014. Is the still chance of me getting RFE please let me know . Also do we need to redo medicals

      Delete
    3. For your Wife's RFE, is the status still RFE Response Review?

      Delete
    4. Also my status is still in acceptance. Is this normal just curious ??

      Delete
    5. PD feb 2008. Wife received RFE in Feb. Mine is in acceptance and wife's in response review.

      Delete
  14. Hi!!! Can i ask as well if like for phil eb3-- my pd is feb 2010. Do u think it will be current next month or 2?:-) thank u much!!!

    ReplyDelete
  15. what is the prediction for EB3 India for summer. No one seems to be talking about it. is there a chance of it jumping forward like it did last summer?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it will move forward 1 week or 2 weeks every visa bulletin.

      Delete
  16. My priority date is DEC 2012 , How long it would take to get EAD ? :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There are about 30K people until May 1, 2010. There will be another 30-60K people between May 2010 and Dec 2012...take your pick. Depends upon the demand density. Add to this number the expected porting cases that will show up...so you are looking at about 100K+ EB2I green cards that need to be given out before your turn comes.

      This is just putting the number in perspective. No one can say with certainty when your turn will come. The best spillover years have EB2I taking 20-25K GCs. Bad spillover years will have 10K GCs. If we average it out to 15K GCs, then you are about 6 years away.

      That's a long time and anything can happen in between. What's important to know is how many people are in front of you.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for the detailed explanation .I appreciate that .
      6 years wait is too much , i came to usa in 2008 beginning. How and where to check the demand data ?

      Delete
  17. Ambals, thank you for the post - however sir, are you considering - consular processing cases too for the GC inventory in your prediction - what happens if the Dates move fwd and they dont have inventory left. (I am sorry for the question but I don't know) - My PD 1 April 2009 (EB2) do you think i stand any chance this year to be greened ?? Rgds R

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. DOS already knows about the CP cases. From the looks of it, the bulk of CP cases appear to be 2009 or later. Otherwise, DOS would not confidently state the movement of PD.

      Delete
    2. Typically, consular processing is 15% of the total cases. Yes. It is considered in my calculations.

      Delete
  18. When will 2009 PD's start getting their Green Cards?---2016 onward? What about 2010 PD's?---in 2018?

    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hopefully, early 2009 will get this year. later 2009 in 2015 and early 2010 from 2016 onwards.

      Delete
    2. So Feb 2010 would get their GC after July 2016?

      Thanks.

      Delete
  19. Any chance for EB2I April 30, 2009 this year ? 50% ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Based upon the information available right now, it is 99%.

      Delete
  20. Ambals, PD is Nov 2007; getting married on July 2nd. We will re-enter US on 7/9 and file AoS on 7/10. Do you think we will be far back in the queue and might not get GC this year ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If your PD stays current current for 90 days after you file your I-485 with right paperwork, you will get GC.

      Delete
  21. My PD is Dec 24 '08, and I-485 was applied in April 2012 just before the PD was retrogressed. I have filed the medical, and got finger printed in June 2012. Do you think I have a chance to get my GC this year? thank you

    ReplyDelete
  22. Thanks for your post. A lot of us have sent medical info. about 2 years back when the dates went to I guess early 2010. Looking at the new mandate where medical records need to be < 1year it looks like most of us who have submitted the documents will get RFE's. First time filers probably have a better chance to get a GC vs. RFE impacted. Not a specific question for you but any thoughts?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. For first time filers, they need to get finger printing done, then have to go through FBI name check.
      For RFEs, all you have to do is respond and they need to agree.

      Delete
  23. A full medical exam may not be needed. Inoculations are for life. The only part that may be repeated is the Tuberculosis test.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Hello - My PD has become current. 140 application is still being processed.

    If I file on July 1st, how long will it take for me to get my EAD?

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hi, Thanks for your reply. I guess my question is not clear, I have not applied for the I-485 yet(recently ported from EB3 to EB2), so i believe, i have to do the medicals, Please correct me if i am wrong.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes. You have to. But, for the records from certified civil surgeon, its better to wait for your date to become current. Please check the list of documents for I-485 -- http://ambals.blogspot.com/2013/07/getting-ready-to-file-i-485.html

      Delete
  26. My PD is Oct 2008 Eb2. i haven't got any RFE yet. Is this a matter to worry? I know the "internal retrogression" starts every year in Oct and I am hoping my date will be current on Aug 1st. Would 60 days (Aug 1st to Oct 1st) be enough time for USCIS to process RFE and Greencards? This RFE is just another way to make the life of legal immigrant miserable while the administration welcomes illegals in Arizona.. it is like Chuck-e-Cheese out there at US borders for past few years .. vote bank politics !!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hello Ambals - Can you help me with the below question? Thanks so much.

    PD: 11-Sept-2008

    Applied I485 in Feb 2012. RFE for Birth Certificate in April 2012
    Submitted BC in July 2012 - Unfortunately PD retrogressed

    On 3rd June - Received RFE for Medicals and updated G325 (Biographic information)
    In anticipation of PD going current took medical exams last month :)
    Reponse to RFE - new medicals & G325 already sent to USCIS

    Unfortunately missed PD going current in July 2014 by 10days.

    My questions:
    1. Looks like there are about 7000 applicants between 2004 & Sept 2008 - so I am assuming all these applicants will be considered when PD goes current in July 2014.
    2. Assuming August 2014 - my PD goes current. What are the possibilities of the following happening?
    - Will I be placed on bottom of the queue of the 7000 applicants?
    - Let's say high volume of applicants will file in August 2014 (assuming the PD will move to 2009 which means another few 1000 applicants are going to apply) Will this reduce my chances of getting GC approved before next retrogression?

    Thanks so much!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You don't have to worry now. Once your PD becomes current, wait for 20 days. If you have not got the GC by then, you can all USCIS and check and also, ask your state senator's office to make an enquiry on your behalf.

      Delete
    2. Sorry if this is a repeat question.

      So the fact that my PD didn't go current in July 2014 - will not impact due to the many 1000s of people who are likely to file on July 1st?

      Also do you expect any other RFE after my PD goes current - Let's say in August? Like new passport photos; FP etc.? If that's the case not sure what my chances of getting GC approved would be then.

      Also how did you come up with the 20days once my PD becomes current? Just curious!

      Thanks

      Delete
  28. Hello Ambals,

    First of all I really appreciate your efforts here!
    My PD is July 12th 2009, Do I have a chance this year? I missed the boat last time, so this will be my first time filing. I'm so anxious!

    Thank You!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There might be a slight chance.

      Delete
    2. Hello Ambals, what about the importance of Received Date & Notice Date (RD & ND) in this case. (or Priority Date will take the presidence over the RD and ND ??) - Just curious ?? Pl advise, do you think they will have enough inventory to reach July 2009 (early Summer) this year ?? (Thanks for the Blog)

      Delete
    3. mine is Aug 31 2009. chance is very less but it is

      Delete
    4. your PD will most likely be current next year by Aug bulletin.

      Delete
  29. Hi Ambals,

    My PD is Dec 11, 2009. When can I expect the date to be current?

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Hello,
    Is there a difference between approval rate of GC with I485 vs consular processing?
    Can Consulate reject GC application during interview?
    Please advise.
    Thanks,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. yes, consular officer can reject the applicant or ask for additional evidence during the interview.
      No definite stats on rejection at consular posts.

      Delete
  31. Hi Ambals,

    My PD is Nov 2008. First time filer. Looks like my PD will be current in August. Can I get my I-693 medical examination done by 1st week of july and be ready or should I wait until the official release date of August Visa bulletin to do my medicals?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wait until RFE issuance. Your PD will become current next bulletin.

      Delete
    2. You can do all the vaccination required now. Please wait for I-693 once the visa bulletin is released.

      Delete
  32. Hi Ambala, My PD is Jan 2008 and I have applied my 485 last year but missed the bus last time.After contacting local congressman they updated saying it is pre-adjudicated.What does that mean?When do I expect my GC as it will be current in July?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. you will get it this year.

      Delete
    2. Hopefully in first couple of weeks of July.

      Delete
    3. Sorry how did u contact local congressman can u z share

      Delete
  33. Hi Ambals:

    First of all, thank you for such a wonderful analysis. It is not a mere speculation, but an educated guess! :-)

    My EB2-India PD is Feb 7th, 2009 and we filed for our I-485 in Feb. 2012, when the PD became current for the first time. We are done with our finger printing and have already got our EAD/AP documents. Does it mean that all our documents are in order and the only possible RFE that we may get is the revised medical?

    Also, what chances do you think we have to get our GC's in 2014? If not in 2014, what is the probability to get them in 2015? Finally, I assume that if not in 2015, it is a certainty in 2016. Is that right?

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. it is highly likely you will get GC by end of year 2015. your dates may become current by Sept/Oct bulletin.

      Delete
    2. Hopefully you will get your GC this year itself.

      Delete
  34. Hi Ambals,
    I filed for my PERM on April 10, 2014. I have an existing EB2-I PD of April 14, 2008 with my previous employer. My question is - based on the current trend, would my PERM be processed and I be eligible for file for my I-485 this year, as I expect the dates to retrogress after Oct/Nov?

    ReplyDelete
  35. I’d like to have feedback from the group. My H1 was approved for few months over max out 6 years date. In meanwhile my I-140 was approved before max out date.

    Can I continue working on same petition and extend my visa when previously approved I-797 is about to expire?
    Also to add my H1, PERM and I-140 are through same employer which happens to be my current employer

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes - if you have your I-140 approved and are working with the same employer - you can continue to renew your H1 for 3 year period every time it expires - endlessly (unless USCIS makes any changes to the policy).

      Delete
    2. Thanks Kishore

      I have approved 797 with 8 months over max out date. However my 140 got approved last week. Does that mean no need to for immediate h1 extension.

      Delete
    3. As long as you have an approved I-797 and it is not expired as of now, you should apply for the H1 extension - using your I-140 approval - when the current H1 is about to expire. Although I am almost certain, you may want to get the legal advice on your specific case. (Remember that you are allowed to extend your H1 perpetually for 3-year periods unless your I-485 application is rejected.)

      Good Luck!

      Delete
  36. Hi Ambals, Is there a chance of moving the PD to July 2010 in this year ? how many spillover will come to India aproximatly this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This is very unlikely. Your priority date will become current in Year 2016

      Delete
    2. Any one tried to change Job while waiting for priority date ? how much time it takes to get the labor approval ?

      Delete
    3. I tried, I switched jobs and most of the employers (big companies) have a wait period before they start the process. On top of that wait add a good 1 year for the perm to be applied and approved (assuming no audits)

      Delete
  37. Hi Ambals,

    My PD is EB2 May 29th 2009. Already have the EAD as well as medical, finger promoting done. What are the chances of Green Card by this year? 50%?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Not possible this year. Most likely next year by Aug 15 bulletin

      Delete
    2. I disagree. May 2009 has a very good chance in this Sept based on reports of RFEs.

      Delete
    3. I would say a good 75% chance for this year

      Delete
  38. On an another blog, in comments a guy says he got an RFE today and his PD is May 2009. Does that mean May 2009 should also be current in the next Bulletin?

    Dont know what his RFE is about and not really sure what to
    make out of the information but curious as my PD is April 2009.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. it's possible that PD might move as much as May 2009. but most likely it will be feb 09 or mar 09

      Delete
  39. Also what are the chances that EB2 India will not be retrogressed this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. EB2 will retrogress in dec/Jan or even as late as Feb. For the reason that a lot of ppl are getting RFE and it will take time for all to respond.

      Delete
  40. My PD is Oct-2006 under EB3 India. I-140 cleared in 2007. When can I expect my GC?

    ReplyDelete
  41. Hi Ambal,
    My pd is march 2008, I applied for 485 when it was current in sep 2013. Can I except GC in July 2014 ...

    Thanks
    Rahamath

    ReplyDelete
  42. My pd is EB2 - 20 March 2009. What are the chances of it being current

    ReplyDelete
  43. Hi Ambal,
    my PD is 2008-Nov, now a days many people are getting RFE about EVL and Medical, I filed AC21 in Dec-2012. this time still we didn't get any RFE, what might be the cause?

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hello Ambals,

    I would greatly appreciate your advice on the following 2 questions:

    My lawyers tell me that my PD is March 2009 for EB2-I however my 485 receipt notice has a PD date as March 2010. The receipt notice also says "Please note that if a priority date is printed on this notice, the priority does not reflect earlier retained priority dates" My lawyers do not anticipate as this being an issue. Can you please advise if this is indeed not an issue and I should not be concerned about it? Is there anything that I need to do about it at this point?

    2. Assuming the PD for EB-I moves to March 2009 and my date becomes current by the September 2014 VB, is there anything that I need to do once my PD becomes current. Should I call USCIS to follow up on my status. I have my EAD since March 2012. All that my online case status shows is that my finger prints were accepted as of March 2012. It does not say anything else. It does not say that it has moved to he next step. Does that mean that my application has not been processed.

    I would greatly appreciate your prompt response.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hi, my eb2 pd is feb10th 2010 india.when can I expect my pd will become current?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have the exact same PD (Feb 10, 2010, EB2). From the discussion above it looks as if 2015 is unlikely unless there is some legislative change and you qualify for that. For folk with PD in early (Jan-March) 2010, mid 2016 seems like the best bet.

      L.C.

      Delete
  46. Ambals, would appreciate your inputs...

    My PD is Oct 8, 2008

    Will I be current in aug? If so how much time does USICS really need to approve? In other words how long should my date hold its place for me to get approved? I got an rfe for pdated medical exam.

    I will be in India in aug. If my aos gets approved when I am away, will I have an issue coming back in B11. I dont have ead or ap.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am eb2 india and pending 485 (fp completed march 2012)

      Delete
    2. Another typo, I will be coming back in H1.

      Delete
  47. Hi Ambals,

    How many bulletins away for EB 3 India 11-Dec-2003 to be current? Thanks in advance.

    ReplyDelete
  48. My PD is May 9th,2009 EB2I. What are the chances of it being current? And when would that be?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. next August i.e. 2015. PD is expected to move till feb 09/mar 09 this year

      Delete
    2. I disagree. May 2009 will be current this September. Multiple RFEs are reported for that month on trackitt and CO himself estimated an early summer 2009 date.

      Delete
  49. Ambals - Great work with your blog. Appreciate your service to the community.

    My PD is 18-April-09, EB2 India, what are my chances of becoming current?

    ReplyDelete
  50. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  51. http://www.fragomen.com/newsresources/xprNewsDetailFrag.aspx?xpST=USAlerts&news=2704

    Excerpt from anove link - "The State Department projects that the cut-off date could move to February 2009 in August and to an early summer 2009 date in September of this year. "

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hi Ambals, My priority date is August 2011 when do u think it would be current?

    ReplyDelete
  53. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  54. My PD is Feb 2009. Got my EAD in 2012. Will I get my GC this year? Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  55. This is my prediction

    EB2-I - will go till Jan 2009 in Sep-2014
    EB2-I - will go till May 2010 in Sep-2015
    EB2-I - will go till July 2011 in Sep-2016
    EB2-I - will go till Sep 2011 in Sep-2017
    EB2-I - will go till Dec 2011 in Sep-2018
    EB2-I - will go till Feb 2012 in Sep-2019
    and
    so on.............

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. u r so intelligent, how did u do this. ur parents must be really proud of ur analytical skills

      Delete
    2. liked the above comment..he is real optimist

      Delete
  56. My PD June 2011, when it will become current ?

    ReplyDelete
  57. I applied I-485 with my wife and son. Today, got email for RFE for all of us? Is it medical record related (I-695)?

    ReplyDelete
  58. Hi Ambals - what do you think about EB2I - July 2009 getting current this year? Is there a possibility or will it roll over to next year?

    ReplyDelete
  59. Hi Ambel

    My EB2-I PD is 16-Jan-2009, I could not file I-485 last time. If i am able to file now, then EAD process has to be completed to initiate green card? Sorry i don't have any knowledge about 3rd stage. Can you please explain?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. When your date is current, you send application for 1) I485 (AOS), 2) I765 (EAD) and 3) I131 (AP). usually, EAD/AP are processed in 2 months, and AOS is processed in 4-6 months. Also, EAD/AP can be processed irrespective of your date being current but AOS cannot be. For example, assume the date becomes current in August when you send the application. However the date retrogresses in October. You will still get your EAD/AP after October, but you won't get your GC unless a visa number was assigned to you before retrogression.

      It's almost guaranteed you will not get the GC this time, but you will get the EAD/AP. Also, if the EAD/AP is issued while the date is still current, unfortunately it will be valid only for 1 year and unless your date is current next year, you will have to apply for renewal.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for your clarification

      Delete
    3. what makes you think this year is not possible? If you apply as soon as your date becomes current and the date stays current for 2 months there is a chance of getting GC.
      There have been cases when people have got thier GCs in 2 months as recently as last year

      Delete
  60. HI Ambel,
    I am porting from EB3 to EB2. My EB3 PD is Jan 2008 and currently my EB2 I140 is pending (Filing Date Feb 2014). First can I apply for 485 now and if yes then would I get my GC this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Convert your I-140 to premium processing. So that you have the I-140 approved as soon as possible. You will be able to apply for I-485 in July as soon as the I-140 gets approved.

      Delete
  61. Hi Ambals, My priority date is 17 Dec 2010 when do u think it would be current?

    ReplyDelete
  62. Hi Ambals, thanks for the helpful blog. My husband's birth certificate has date of registration shown as 2006 and not in the year he was born (1981). Does he need an affidavit in this case to avoid RFE? If so, what do you recommend?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, we had the same issue, and we provided affidavits from two or three, I do not remember, different people

      Delete
    2. Hi..could you please expand on the contents of the affidavit? Was this in response to a RFE? The persons swearing in the affidavit were your family or friends?

      Delete
    3. Yes, family and friends confirming that they were present at birth/or at ceremony for baby and so on and so forth.

      Delete
  63. Hi Ambals,
    I have a unique question not related to this post. But thought to ask here to get more info.I'm working as Consultant at many places (in my LCA job title as "Programmer Analyst" ) and i continued like that with my first extension and i also have 140 approved under EB3.

    From last 2 year, I'm working as Architect/Technical Manager from project to project and also earned advance degree in US. I have asked my employer change it EB2 and change in my designation in LCA to match my current role. He convinced me to do during next extension because of the cost and paper work for this process. Now i'm due for my next extension and thinking to change job title in LCA to Technical Manager or Architect, and then porting for EB2. But my employer still has clarification what if we don't get future project role as Technical manager and if we get as Architect or vice - versa...

    My query.
    1. My current client is ready to give letter as Solution Architect as that is my role. Can we file as "Computer Software Architect" in LCA.
    2. I need to start EB2 process from scratch but can i port my eb3 date.? that was filed under different designation with my current employer.
    3. My this extension is based on 140 approval if i change my LCA title in new extension then will it be problem to apply with old 140 ?. ( 4 years over...done first extension after a year and second is due now after 3 years. Still 2 years left on H1B but to get 3 year extension i need to show 140 approval)


    Any clue.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As per my knowledge, You can give as architect which should not be a problem as they fall same occupational classification as senior software engineer or Programmer analyst. But my recommendation is don't put manager as it has different requirement. I filed my labor on "Senior Software Engineer" and then moved as architect after EAD (filed AC21). However make sure job description is close to previous one with added responsibilities (it need to be exact same word but close enough)

      Delete
  64. Hi Ambals- I have a question regarding changing jobs in last EAD step. My PD is Jan07. I am completing a assignment next month end with my company. I might have to resign as i cannot change location. Hence planning to switch jobs now. Does it make sense to wait now for another month. As the PD is current the GC approval might come in. But i don't want to loose any good opportunity. Haven't got RFE yet. So hoping 485 will go smooth without any issues. But never know with 485 approvals. It might take forever. What is the suggestion???

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hi Ambals
    This is a great service.

    My PD is Feb 2011 when do u think I will get my ead ?

    ReplyDelete
  66. Ambals, would appreciate your inputs...

    My PD is EB2I Oct 8, 2008, Pending 485, no EAD/AP

    Will I be current in aug? If so how much time does USICS really need to approve? In other words how long should my date hold its place for me to get approved? I got an rfe for pdated medical exam.

    I will be in India in aug. If my aos gets approved when I am away, will I have an issue coming back in B11. I dont have ead or ap.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  67. EB2-I - will go till Jan 2009 in Sep-2014
    EB2-I - will go till May 2010 in Sep-2015
    EB2-I - will go till July 2011 in Sep-2016
    EB2-I - will go till Sep 2011 in Sep-2017
    EB2-I - will go till Dec 2011 in Sep-2018
    EB2-I - will go till Feb 2012 in Sep-2019
    and
    so on.............

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Stop spreading a wrong information. If u cannot give correct answers, at least dont give wrong answers. Fragomen and rest of the predictions are saying that PD will reach May 2009 this year. Moreover, how can you predict for the next 5 years? Overall GC process is so random that predicting for next 5 years cannot provide accurate results...your predictions for Sep 2019 are similar to predicting who will be US president in 2030...

      Delete
  68. Hi Ambals, My priority date for EB2 is Dec 10, 2010 when do u think it would be current?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It will be current soon after the priority date hits May 2010. Which i think would be next year

      Delete
  69. Could you please suggest local congressman for zip 90066 (Los Angeles)

    ReplyDelete
  70. My Priority Date is March 24th, 2008. Thought I will be current on July 1st. I will be submitting my I-485 around he 3rd week of July. Is there a chance I could still get my GC his year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There is a chance definitely - i have seen people who apply on the first or 31st or mid month get GC and i have also seen others who have not got GC and they have had to wait till the dates became current again. As Ambals said in one of the previous comments, you need to look at the option of calling the local senator or congressman

      Delete
  71. Hello Ambals,

    I see some of I-485 cases(EB2I) with Oct 2009 PD getting RFEs now.

    Could you please provide any Insight on this.

    Appreciate your commitment and help to the community.

    ReplyDelete
  72. Hi Ambals,

    My PD is Feb 2008, so technically I am current for the July bulletin. I did my Medical in Nov 2013 and had applied concurrently for EAD and 485. I got my AP and EAD in Feb 2014. What are the chances I will get my GC without any RFE (for Medical) in July? My 485 status still shows as Acceptance.

    TIA

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. you will definitely not get an rfe to update your medical records but you may or may not get an rfe to show that you are employed currently by the company who applied your i140 or the new company from where your ac21 portability letter has been sent out. Hope this explanation helps

      Delete
  73. My PD is May 23rd 2008 under EB2; I have EAD/AP approved in 2012. Received RFE in 2012 and submitted the RFE in less than 60 days from the date we received RFE. Are there any chances of getting GC in July 2014? I am planing on moving to a different house. Is it better to wait until we get the GC? We want to move before next school year begins i.e Aug. 2014. Please advice us. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  74. My PD is Oct 15, 2008. When will it become current? When can I expect EAD and when can I expect GC?

    ReplyDelete
  75. I just received RFE text alert for my I-485(EB2 India PD Oct 19th 2009),not sure what they are looking for.

    ReplyDelete
  76. I just received RFE text alert for my I-485(EB2 India PD Oct 2nd 2009). RFE was mailed on June 11th. I guess RFE is for medical test.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Ambals,

    Any chances for EB2 India Oct 2009 PD to get green card in 2014 based on these RFEs.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Not sure why they are sending RFE for Oct 2009. I got one. Would have preferred not getting as i really doubt that we would get green card this year. We may need another medical when our dates get current. I am assuming others in OCT 2009 PD are thinking the same

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It makes sense to delay the RFE response (think it is 81 days) and respond at the end of 70 days to gain time so that you are covered under the 1 year expiration when dates move next June - Aug 2015.

      Delete
  79. Ambals,

    My Priority Date is Jan 2011 with approved I140 and got offered from another company. According to the Demand Data, My Lawyer doesn't want me to change the company and start this f.. process again. he said, Jan 2011 will definitely become current in July-Sep 2015. Please suggest me if it's true or I should go ahead and accept the offer.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. if i were you, i wouldnt skip an opportunity of a better job. Who knows what will happen in July 2015?

      Delete
    2. I think your decision should be based on risk you want to take - do you want to compromise for a year or two and get the GC (your lawyer may be right) or move to a better job and restart the process and accept any complications if they come.

      Delete
    3. my PD is Aug 2009. i planed same like you in 2010 sept and changed job in early jan 2011. and PD went to 2010 and i was not able to file 485 b/c of job change just 4-5 months back..
      your question is two folded. if GC is not top priority, then change. if not stay back with current company.
      oppertunities comes and goes..

      Delete
  80. quick Q guys -- where do these RFEs get mailed to? I just moved jobs and yet to file AC21

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I got an RFE and it was mailed to my home address.

      Delete
    2. my rfe was mailed only to my attorney's office(fragomen) and the lawyer's office confirmed, it will only be sent to them and not to my home address.

      all other documents - receipts related to 485/fp came to home address.

      this provided u gave the authorization form ( g21? dont rem the exact form) which all of us do.

      Delete
    3. I'm in the same situation. Case status says RFE is sent on June 5th, but I have not received it and either my attorney office.
      Any idea how long does it take to get the RFE mail?
      Now i'm worried its been 20 days, I have not received the RFE.

      Delete
  81. quick q guys -- where do the RFEs get mailed to -- home or attorney? I just moved jobs and yet to file AC21.

    ReplyDelete
  82. Got a Medical RFE for my wife. My Priority date is Oct 24th 2008. She is India now and per plans returning by Sep 15th. Not sure what to do now. Wait for the Aug Visa bulletin or ask her to come asap? Any advice please

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ask her to comeback and go again for another 3 months.
      Give her some pocket money also :)

      Delete
  83. If I am not wrong. This year China will move past EB2 april 2010 and EB3 September 2013. The spillover from ROW on EB2 and EB3 will be used to india ??? I don't see any other country which is as worse as india. Does EB3-India inventory data includes porting ?? .. Can you put some light on EB3 ROW spilover to india ?? Again Thanks for your work/writing.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Hi Ambals, My priority date is March 24th, 2008 - EB-2. Is there a chance of getting my GC this year? Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  85. What could be the maximum movement for this FY? Would it move to 2010 September?

    ReplyDelete
  86. 2010 seems unlikely. Based upon Fragomen estimate it wont go beyond 2009 summer

    ReplyDelete
  87. Hi,

    Our priority date is Jan 15 2009. We already got our EAD/AP. Any chances of getting GC this year.

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  88. Hi,

    My PD is July 2008 and it will be current in July VB. We are applying next month. Given that Dates might be current for the next 2 - 3 months. What is the likely hood of getting GC this year?? I saw earlier comment where there 7000 applicants are there between 2004 and 2008. Will they be cleared first until the newly filed applications are reviewed or is it random basis?

    ReplyDelete
  89. Lawyer is indicating that he wont be able to file 485 on the 1str of the month but rather in about 10 days. Does this really matter in terms of 485 processing and chances of getting GC this yr?

    Secondly i am guessing there will be a lot of preadjucated cases this time around since the dates were current last time. Will this reduce the processing time for fresh 485 applicants?

    ReplyDelete
  90. Dear all, My priority date is in July 2009, what are my chances of getting green card this year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey active bum I'm lazy bum as well :-) when will the July 2009 be current? ;) ;)

      Delete
  91. Hello,
    Any ideas when Feb 2012 will become current?
    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  92. 1) Do you think EB3-India will continue to move by 2 weeks in the upcoming bulletins?

    2) If so, do you think it will move by 2 weeks even in Oct 2014, Nov 2014, etc...as the current USCIS fiscal year ends by September?

    My PD is 11-Dec-2003 EB3 India and so wondering when I can expect it to be current.

    ReplyDelete
  93. Hi,
    PD : Sept 28, 2008 (so close !!!)

    Me and my wife both got our EADs in 2012 with 1 year validity. We then got it extended for 2 years, and now our EADs expire mid April 2015. Do you think we would get our Green cards before the end of this year?

    I read comments above indicating that my PD will become current on Aug 1. But do you think it will stay current for 3 months thereby getting me the green card or will it retrogress and I will have to wait another year ?

    My I485 still shows "Acceptance" and my wife's I485 shows "Initial Review" even though its more than 2 years since we applied.

    Thanks Aditi and Ganesh for your work.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Hi,
    Does anyone had experience in getting the RFE resent by the USCIS?
    I moved to employer using my EAD and today I noticed in the USCIS case status page, that a RFE has been issued for my I-485 application. I have not received the RFE yet at my home address, its been 20 days.
    Is it possible to get the RFE copy from the local USCIS office?
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  95. Predictions only ( no hard feelings )

    EB2-I - will go till Jan 2009 in Sep-2014
    EB2-I - will go till May 2010 in Sep-2015
    EB2-I - will go till July 2011 in Sep-2016
    EB2-I - will go till Sep 2011 in Sep-2017
    EB2-I - will go till Dec 2011 in Sep-2018
    EB2-I - will go till Feb 2012 in Sep-2019
    and
    so on.............

    ReplyDelete