Thursday, August 14, 2014

September 2014 Visa Bulletin and Analysis


September 2014 Visa Bulletin was released earlier this week. 

EB2:

Date for EB2 India moved from 22 JAN 09 to 01 MAY 09. EB2 China stayed at 08 OCT 09. The cut-off for all other EB2 countries are Current.

Good News !!! EB2 India has moved forward. I expected it to move till 01 MAR 09. It is very good news that it has moved till 01 MAY 09.

If you are becoming current in September and if you are going to file I-485, please make sure to contact your immigration lawyer now and get the relevant documents. Please make sure your file is sent to USCIS within first 3 days of September.

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 stayed at 08 NOV 03 and EB3 Philippines from 01 JUN 10 to 01 APR 11 and EB3 China stayed at 01 NOV 08 and all other countries it stays at 01 APR 11.

Good news here is EB3 Philippines date has moved almost a year.

I-485 Pending inventory:

I-485 inventory was released earlier this month.

Current I-485 inventory shows data till 21 JUL 2014. For EB2 India, there are 31,234 pending applications, whose priority is before 01 MAY 2010. For EB3 India, it is 30,018 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:

I am hoping it will stay the same till November Visa Bulletin

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. It stay the same till November Visa Bulletin. 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.

Current Visa Bulletin also mentions that the date might retrogress as early as November.

Links:

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

192 comments:

  1. Hi Ambal,
    When can I expect EAD ?
    My PD is May 30 2012.

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. May be by Dec 2014

      Delete
    2. Yes December 2014 if not July 2015 for sure

      Delete
    3. Please explain little bit.

      I do understand, based on the current movement.
      We may be left 11000 some pending inventory by end of Sep 2014.
      Do you have any thing to add, greatly appreciated ?

      Thanks a lot !!!

      Delete
    4. Are you Eb2 -India/China or Eb2- ROW ?

      Delete
    5. do you really think that in Dec. 2014 it will reaching May 2012...or in July 2015 might be in dream only.... As it's running looks like there is less change for next Sept to be reach Jan 2012 even......:(

      Delete
    6. 2012 date will not be current until 2016.

      FY 2014 ended with may 1 2009
      FY 2015 -. Nov 1 2009
      FY 2016 - inventory buildup up. It's possible 2012 will be current then. If it is not, then you are looking at an additional 3 years.

      Delete
    7. are you sure? for PD 2012 , EAD is possible in dec 2014-2015

      Delete
  2. Hi
    My PD is Oct 24 2003 EB3 India and I received 693 for medical on Jul 14 and uscis recvd mine on Aug 4th. How long dothink before I get my GC?
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If they your reply is acceptable to them, it should come within 30 days.

      Delete
    2. Hi Ambals, It'll be 30 days in a few, and there is no news yet. What should I be doing next?
      Thanks

      Delete
  3. Is there a chance that the EB2 India will be moved to May2011 to generate the Demand data s they did in 2011?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Really I wish the same... @list Jan 2012...Please...

      Delete
    2. They will move the dates when the dates comes closer to may 2010 to generate. We have to wait and see if they move till may 2011 at that time. They might.

      Delete
  4. Hi Ambals,
    My EB2 PD is Feb 2009. Responded to RFE with new medical exam and employment letter verification in July 2014. My case will be current staring Sept 1 2014. When will I get my GC by? Appreciate your blogs. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ambals,
      We are in the same situation as the above reader. Our PD is Feb 2009. We received a RFE for employment and Medical in late June 2014 which we responded to and they received the response on July 15, 2014. Since then the status online says "Request For Evidence Response Review." Any predication on when we can expect our GC? Also In general even though they sent out the RFE before you are current do they only make a decision on your case after Sept 1 when you will be current? Your response is highly appreciated. Thanks!

      Delete
    2. If the visas are still available for this year, there is a chance you will get by Sept 30.

      Delete
  5. This whole notion of being current is stupid, I have been current past three years, No GC, PD June 2008.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What happened? Why is it taking so long?

      Delete
    2. Attn: Tonymat
      You don't even have EAD ?

      Delete
  6. Hi Ambals,

    You are great with your predictions..my priority date is Feb 18th 2009. First time GC filer(dependent), what are the chances of getting GC this year? Is it going to stay on 1st May 2009 until Nov 1st or end of Nov?

    Thanks,

    Big Ambals Fan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you are filing I-485 for first time in September, it will mostly be next year.

      Delete
  7. Hi, My PD is Feb 27, 2009 and have become current in this bulletin. A couple of questions:
    1) Why is it necessary to file AOS within first 3 days of September?
    2) Is there a chance of getting my GC this year?

    Thanks as always!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I had the same question on the significance of first 3 days.

      Delete
    2. Simple rule is earlier the better in the whole GC process. Every single day counts. The USCIS uses the combination of Priority Date and acceptance notice to create the queue and process.

      Delete
  8. Dear Ambals, my date is March 2009. I was in the process if changing jobs when I got my RFE. I am starting my job in 5 days. I have sent the letter of intent as EVL. should I be submitting another letter after I start the job stating I have started my job? Does my case appear weak due to change of jobs?
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Please give very specific details to an immigration lawyer and get an answer

      Delete
  9. Dear Ambals, my date is March 2009. I was in the processf changing jobs when I got my RFE. I am starting my job in 5 days. I have sent the letter of intent as EVL. should I be submitting another letter after I start the job stating I have started my job? Does my case appear weak due to change of jobs?

    ReplyDelete
  10. Ambals, My PD(dec 2008) in EB2I is current on AUG bulletin and I submitted i485 papers on AUG 1st 2014 (first time filer). If the dates stay till November, do I have any chances to get GC this year? Is there any thing (early walk in for finger printing...) I can do to speedup the process? In case I miss the chance this year, what are the chances in next year based on the available information. You have been pretty helpfull during our GC journey. I appreciate your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Very little chance to get this year. Mostly next July.

      Delete
  11. Dear Ambals, my date is March 2009. I was in the process if changing jobs when I got my RFE. I am starting my job in 5 days. I have sent the letter of intent as EVL. should I be submitting another letter after I start the job stating I have started my job? Does my case appear weak due to change of jobs?
    Thanks

    A

    ReplyDelete
  12. Dear Ambals, my date is March 2009. I was in the process if changing jobs when I got my RFE. I am starting my job in 5 days. I have sent the letter of intent as EVL. should I be submitting another letter after I start the job stating I have started my job? Does my case appear weak due to change of jobs?
    Thanks

    August 14, 2014 at 10:

    ReplyDelete
  13. Dear Ambals, my date is March 2009. I was in the process if changing jobs when I got my RFE. I am starting my job in 5 days. I have sent the letter of intent as EVL. should I be submitting another letter after I start the job stating I have started my job? Does my case appear weak due to change of jobs?
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  14. Any chance eb2 India will move to May 15 2009 in October visa bulletin?

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi Ambals,

    My PD is June 2011, EB2 India, when can I expect it to be current?

    ReplyDelete
  16. Does this mean, the dates will be current till end of November Month ?

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hey Ambal, Can you please tell us on date movements to build inventory after 2014 ? will that be in 2015 or 16 ? and lets say that if it happens in 2016 , then up to which month and year will it move ? Appreciate your response.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hi Ambals,
    Is it possible that they can use next years (2015) numbers to move the date further ? or they probably will use 2015 at next year sometime.
    Bulletin says, to hold the visa numbers within limits of 2015, does that means they will use most of the numbers now , at start of year ?

    "Once there is a significant increase in India Employment Second preference demand it will be necessary to retrogress the cut-off date, possibly as early as November, to hold number use within the fiscal year 2015 annual limit. "

    ReplyDelete
  19. My Priority Date is on April 20th 2009. I submitted my RFE August 11th. Are there any chances of getting GC this year?I am afraid we might get into a cycle of RFE, current no approval.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hello Ambals,

    Welcome Back!!

    Thanks for your analysis on Sep 2014 Visa Bulletin.

    My PD is Oct 15th 2009(EB2I) got RFE for medicals for me and my dependents.

    Is there any possibility that dates will move in Oct 2014 VB incase they want to use the FY2015 visas.

    Also you always say moving EB2 China dates are good,Their dates may move to Nov 2009 in the Oct 2014 VB and any chances for EB2I to move till Oct 31st 2009 as they issued RFE for medicals etc.

    Appreciate your comments.

    Thanks,
    Ambals Fan

    ReplyDelete
  21. When they say the dates will retrogress as early as November, is that the November bulletin that is released in October or the December bulletin that is released in November?

    ReplyDelete
  22. What is the probability for August/Sept first time fillers to get GC this year, will there be enough spill over visa numbers? Assuming date remains current for 90 days

    ReplyDelete
  23. Hi Ambal, EB3 IND Dec 1 2003....seems close yet so far. Movement has slowed down for EB3. When do you expect Dec 1 2003 would be current? thank you for your time.

    ReplyDelete
  24. I am so happy that my dates are current as per Sep buletin. I heard USCIS revised their policy on validity of medical exam. but I have not received RFE about medical exam. All of my friends with PD before and after me have received RFE for medical exam. Have you see any cases where 485 gets approved with more than one year old medical exam. Please advice.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Tonymat, you have hit it right on the question i had. Why does USCIS move dates like this when folks from 2007 and 2008 have filed 485 ad not received the GC yet. I do not understand this at al. Per Ambal there are 31000 applications pending, why move the date before addressing those ? can someone explain

    ReplyDelete
  26. My PD is Nov 2007. Filed AOS/EAD/AP on 7/22 this year. Do you think i will get GC this year ?

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hi Ambal... First time filer I-485 filed on Aug 1st, 2014 with PD Sept 2008. Do you think GC will be approved before retrogression?

    ReplyDelete
  28. Ambals, I am EB2 with Oct 30, 2008 PD. It became current as of Aug 1, 2014. Recd the Biometric appt for 25th Aug. Can we expect EAD / GC this year?

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi Ambels

    First time filed my AOS on 8/11/2015 (EB2-I). Most of them are predicting PD will retrogress on November Visa Bulletin. Here my PD will be current for the next 2 months. Is this possible to get GC on this year? My PD 16 Jan 2009 - EB2-I

    Last time, one of my colleague filed 485 and next month PD retrogressed, after 1 1/2 months he got green card. but his PD is Aug 2007.

    Are they issuing GC based on ascending order of PD or based on existing pending 485?

    ReplyDelete
  30. Today my status changed to "Card/ Document Production". Does it means I'm through in GC run !!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, your GC is on its way. Please let us know your PD and if you received any RFEs this year.

      Delete
    2. Hey, Congratulations! I think you are through! For the rest of us, can you explain your situation. EB2-I? What is your PD? Did you recently get RFE? Thanks!

      Delete
  31. My PD is April 2009. I earlier had filed for AOS (with medical exam and fingerprinting done) in Feb 2012 . I ,got EAD and then retrogression happened.

    Since my PD has become current again, will I be getting RFE to do medical and finger printing again?
    What are my chances to get GC this year?

    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your chances would have been better if your PD was early (Jan/Feb) 2009. You may still stand a chance, esp. if you get an RFE. If you do, make sure you have the standard docs (Evl, proof of continuous employment, and medical) in place and reply to it as soon as possible.

      Delete
    2. What is EVL document?

      Delete
  32. Hey Ambal,

    what's your expectation for China EB2 and EB3 in the coming months? retrgress?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  33. tonymat, why so long?

    ReplyDelete
  34. I am currently on my H1 visa which is in its 8th year on the basis of approved I-140 ( EB3-India ) . My EAD has not been filed since the priority date ( Feb-2008) is not current for EB3-India

    I have received a new job offer from a company who is willing to Tranfer my H1 and also process my GC in the EB2 category.

    Questions
    ************
    1. Can I change companies at this stage of my GC process..? Do I risk anything ?

    2. Will I be able to continue extending my H1 Visa in the future on the basis of the I-140 from my previous employer...?

    3. There are talks of Executive Action later this year towards Immigration Reform. Is it going to help EB3-India candidates who have been waiting for years for the priority dates to become current.... Something like 2007 where all visa classes were current

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If ur revious employer cancel i140, u will loose the date.There is Yates memo which says you don't, but I have read lot of user experiences where uscis doesnt follow Yates memo and don't port date

      Delete
    2. 1. You can change your employer without any problem. Just make sure you have GC filed and i-140 approved before your current H1B extension over

      2. Porting new GC to old PD is not clear and depends on your current employer

      3. Don't wait for Immigration Reform. I doubt it will help legal immigrants. Politics in INDIA and US is at same level now a days.

      Delete
    3. You can change the employer since I-140 was approved 6months old. Make sure that you have the approval copy or a copy through FOIA request before you file through another employer. I did mine even after revoked and got approvals. If your attorney is good then you will not have problem.

      Delete
    4. Please consult a good immigration lawyer with all your specific questions about company and job description.

      Delete
  35. Hi my PD is Oct 2010..wen do u think it will go curent?
    Actually I'm accepting a job offer which will file my green card file after a year.. so in that mean while will I don't want to miss my date.. pls advise, do i need to accept this offer or to continue with the current employer..?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would suggest that you stay with your employer. Your date may get current in 2015 Sept, at least for demand building and you may get your EAD. If you jump your job,with the current pace you will clear I140 only in 2016/17.

      Delete
    2. thanks for the reply. i was in same bought and it clarified my thoughts. seriously thinking of changing the job, but i decided to stick around for another year.

      Delete
    3. Please consult a good immigration lawyer with all your specific questions about your current job description and proposed job description.

      Delete
  36. Hey Ambals,

    You always include I-485 data in your analysis. Can you also explain what does that mean? Questions like - Why they have shown inventory until 2010 when dates are current until May 2009? Wgat does nos like 31,234 for EB2 means? Just little explaination what they are and what might be expected in future. This will enhance the quality of your post.

    ReplyDelete
  37. HI,

    My date is current. I am a derivative applicant. I got my H1 last year and I didn't work immediately after getting approved. This is because I got my SSN only after 3 months. In 485 under last five year employment history, what should I enter for this period ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Actual dates worked..you can say 'Not employed' for any period with in the last 5 years..

      Delete
    2. I don't know if I can say that. I was in a EVC model. Because I didn't have my SSN, the end client didn't want me to join. My employer was paying for me those 3 months. But , I didn't really work at the end client. Meanwhile I got another employer who has an end client close to my home. So, I accepted that. So, I didn't really work for employer1's client. What am I supposed to do ?

      Delete
    3. Just state the employer's name. You are the derivative applicant. They are not going to ask you to prove anything. You may have to sent tax returns of the last two or three years. The first 3 months, no one is going to bother you about that.

      Delete
    4. Please ask the immigration lawyer who is filing your application. He/She should be able to guide you on your specific situation.

      Delete
  38. Hi,

    EB2 date has moved to May09. Mine is July 09. I have heard that dates don't move forward after September bulletin until next year. Is that true? What are the chances?
    Best,
    Nishi

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It doesn't matter if it becomes current. Since we are so close to the end of the year, it will not hold long enough before they run out of visas. There is a small chance July 2009 will get the GCs this year, but the chances look a lot better in July/Aug of 2015.

      If your date becomes current, send in your I-485/I-131 right away; at least you will get the EAD/AP.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for the response. I am happy with EAD also. Is there any chance of that?

      Delete
    3. Once the date is current and you file the I-485/I-131, you should get your EAD/AP in a few weeks.

      EAD is guaranteed if your date is current and you promptly file before dates retrogress.

      Delete
  39. eb3 india july 2006

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you can port to EB2, that might be your best bet now. Otherwise, there are about 21,000 folks in front of you. At the rate of 3,000 per year, it will take another 7 years.

      Delete
    2. add another 5000 for dependents

      Delete
  40. Hi Ambals, Our priority date is EB2 Nov 2008, became current in August. Any idea how long would it take till we can expect our GC? We are at Texas service center.
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you are filing for I-485 for the first time, then typically processing time is about 90 days. Otherwise, you should get GC anytime.

      Delete
  41. Hi,

    I would like to know when I can apply for my EAD as my PD is EB2 June 2011

    ReplyDelete
  42. Hi Ambals,
    First, I wanted to thank you for creating this blog. This has been so useful in understanding how the visa process work and we were able to prepare our-self and plan for things.

    With GOD's grace after 7 years of struggle we got our GC approved.

    Keep up the good work..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Congratulations! For the rest of us please let us know ...

      What is you PD? EB2-I? Did you get RFE recently? When?

      Thanks!

      Delete
  43. Hi Ambals,
    In the above blog, you mentioned about sending the file to USCIS within the first 3 days of Sept. Is there any significance if it is filed in the first 3 days? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  44. Are you guys following the recent statements made by president Obama ? Curious to know your thoughts if some executive change is coming after labor day to open up 200K unused visas for employment based immigration. Fingers Crossed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What statement? Cna you post a link?

      Delete
  45. http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2014/08/20/how_an_obama_immigration_executive_order_expected_after_labor_day_could.html

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This would be awesome. Thanks for the link once again

      Delete
    2. He might do that, but there is no political mileage to be gained by giving relief to legal skilled-migrants. What is Obama or the Democratic Party going to gain by letting a bunch of H1B's get green cards? Sure, the country might benefit, but that does not translate to election wins. If he could have got all the illegals legal status, that is a big vote winner. But he cannot do that, and that is why nothing was done for people in legal queue.

      Again, I am not saying he will no do what the article says he will. Just giving out the reasons why nothing was done thus far.

      Delete
  46. Hello,
    I had initially applied by GC with an I-140 approval date of July 2008 under EB3 India. At the end of 2012 , I was approved for EB2 so my date ported. Applied for the first time I-485 on July 1st (this year when the dates got current- texas service center). Fingerprinting was done July 28th. The website indicates processing time for I-485 at the texas as 4.2 months. Do you think getting an EAD or GC is possible this year? A reply would be much appreciated , Thank you !!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. EAD should come soon. I am hoping you GC will come by end of september.

      Delete
    2. Thank you for your reply. My husband and I received another fingerprinting appt we decided to not wait for the date ( sept 7) and did a walk in. We were informed that the system had errors and was rescheduling people. We were told we didn't need fingerprinting again ( just FYI if others run into this). However the case status online is still only showing "accepted" since July 7th for the I-485. Is it common for the USCIS website not to update and receive EAD/gc in mail. I'm concerned since it's been a month since fingerprinting and the case status for us has not changed since the day it was received

      Delete
    3. We are in the same boat and went ahead before 2nd finger printing appointment. VO mentioned that the fingerprints are processed and available in USCIS system and issue is with scheduling system. Case is in Accepted status since July 9th for the I-485.

      Delete
    4. Hopefully both of our cases move on and we get the cards soon. I can update here if things change for our status online or we receive anything. Good luck !

      Delete
    5. Not sure if my previous message went through. When you did a walk for the 2nd fingerprinting there was nothing official correct that was stamped on the appointment letter ? I'll post on here if i see a forward movement on my online status or receive anythin

      Delete
    6. Thank you! Lets wish we will GC this month. VO wrote on the finger printing appt letter, that prints were processed but not stamped. To whom, we will show this :-), will update here on my case status.

      Delete
    7. Only my EAD says card production, nothing for my husband so far ( 485, EAD/ ap) everything else same as the day they received it, any updates on your end ??

      Delete
    8. Haven't heard back , any updates on your case ?

      Delete
    9. Haven't heard back from you SKV, any updates on your case ??

      Delete
    10. No updates on our cases, still in Acceptance

      -SKV

      Delete
    11. We got EADs.
      -skv

      Delete
    12. I got my EAD, husbands should reach tomorrow.
      Any updates on 485? Ours still only shows acceptance

      Delete
    13. If luck permits, we may receive this month otherwise Feb 2015 from trackit source...

      Delete
    14. I thought the dates won't move till June / July next year if we first time filers (July 2014) didn't get it this month ? 485 still only shows acceptance for us . Will keep you posted on here if things change please do the same , thanks for the update !!

      Delete
    15. Still in Acceptance!

      Delete
    16. Ours too , I don't expect things to change anytime soon. Will post on here if / when things move forward

      Delete
  47. Hello can someone please give me suggestion, I am from india. I am on EB2 and my PD is Nov 8 2010. When can I expect EAD and when can I expect GC? I have full time offer and I am confused if I have to take this opportunity or not. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was in similar state. I spoke to immigration lawyer, she said there are good chances the PD might get current next year. My PD is July 2010. Esp. U don't want to take chance if u r in H1B status in USA for more that six years. I am a risk averse person.

      Delete
    2. When the date becomes closer to May 2010, I think they will open it up at-least for another six months. There is a good chance it might happen next summer.

      Delete
    3. Thanks Ambals and PD 2010 for reply. :)

      Delete
  48. Dear Ambals,
    We miss your thoughtful responses!!! :)))
    Where are you? Why no response to messages. Hope all is well. I am sure you need time off too! :) Thanks for your great work!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Dear Ambals,

    I am so happy that my dates are current as per Sep buletin. I heard USCIS revised their policy on validity of medical exam. but I have not received RFE about medical exam. All of my friends with PD before and after me have received RFE for medical exam. Have you see any cases where 485 gets approved with more than one year old medical exam. Please advice.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You should have received ur RFE. Talk to your attorney to followup with USCIS. Did u check ur case online?

      You can have them create SR for ur case.

      Delete
    2. I created SR but got generic response. "USCIS will contact me if they need anything". My attorney says we have to wait for RFE from USCIS ( advantage of working with big law firm:( )

      Delete
  50. Ganesh, thank you for your insightful analysis of the Visa Bulletins and predictions of priority date progression. I have been following your blog all throughout my journey to permanent residence and have found it very helpful.

    Here's an additional data point to your pool of statistics..
    Received my green card last week (Aug2014); Priority Date Dec2008; on EAD-AP since Mar2012.

    Thanks for all your help.
    Axe

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, can I ask for some more data :-) what service center processed your gc and also did you receive an rfe. if so when was it replied.

      Delete
    2. EB2-India; Texas Service Center; RFE received 15Jun; replied 10Jul; PD current 1Aug; GC received 22Aug.
      Axe

      Delete
  51. Hello Aditi/Ganesh:

    You mentioned if the PD becomes current in September, to file it within first 3 days of September. Why is filing within first 3 days important?

    Could you please explain?

    Many thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Simple rule is earlier the better in the whole GC process. Every single day counts. The USCIS uses the combination of Priority Date and acceptance notice to create the queue and process. You will never know what will come down the road -- executive action/rule change.....

      Delete
    2. Ambals,
      My 485 was fedexed yesterday with a delivery date of Tuesday Sep 9. Am I in trouble already?

      Thanks

      Delete
    3. Bump !! Ambals, my fedex reached today ... do you think I am also in trouble ??

      Delete
  52. Hi Ambals

    My EB3 priority date is April 2009, ported from Eb3 to Eb2.
    EB2 I-140 priority date April 2009.
    Now applying for 485, what should be the expectation to get the GC, if everything goes well?

    Thanks



    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you are applying I-485 for the first time, then it mostly be next July/August.

      Delete
  53. My date is current starting 1st September. Does it really matter if my application is received by USCIS in first few days? I submitted all my documents to my Fragomen paralegal a week back and I hope that he is plannning to submit my application very soon. I dont want to push him to submit my application sooner if it is not going to help me..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Simple rule is earlier the better in the whole GC process. Every single day counts. The USCIS uses the combination of Priority Date and acceptance notice to create the queue and process.

      Delete
  54. Ambals,

    I personally wanted to thank you for all the services that you render to this community...I have been using and got benefited by your help.

    We got greened finally!

    Thanks,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What's your PD and are you under EB2 and also do you come under Texas Service Center?/

      Delete
  55. Thanks for the great blog! I have been following it for over an year now and today I got greened. Thanks again for all the analysis and all the updates that helps make sense of this long and ambiguous process!

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi Ambals..greetings from Texas.
    My priority date is 10 Feb. 2011-EB2 (NIW). I was tod by my lawyer that if I go out of US, I can still apply for the I-485 by consular processing. Do you think this is a good idea. Some friends say that it is painful and is a time taking process, especialy if you are in India.
    Can you pease comment? Any statistics that you know is available on consular processing?
    Thanks a lot

    ReplyDelete
  57. This is on the murthy.com site

    "Chief Oppenheim anticipates that the EB2 India category will retrogress soon - perhaps as early as November 2014. No predictions were given as to the expected cutoff date if and when this retrogression occurs."

    What does November 2014 mean? December bulletin or November bulletin?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am hoping EB2 India date will be the same till November. So, retrogression in December Bulletin.

      Delete
  58. Hi Ambals, My EB2I PD is Feb 9th 2010. Ported EB3 to EB2. waiting to file 485. do you think my PD will become current in 2015. If so when?
    Thanks,
    Vijay.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ambals, any comments on this?

      Delete
    2. Current trend is about 6 years to get GC for EB2 India

      Delete
  59. I am under EB2-I(Direct), PD Oct 2008, Replied medical RFE in June 2014. Got a response to my SR as "Your case is currently under review by an officer. We regret that we are not able to give you a timeframe for when we will complete the review of your case. Actual processing time varies according to each case as well as officer caseload.".

    Senator enquiry said below.

    "USCIS records confirm that the response to the Request for Evidence (RFE) was received on June 2014. Your constituent’s file was returned to the officer for review of the evidence received. However, a background check process was subsequently initiated in his Form I-485 case. If your constituent does not receive a decision or other notice of action within 45 days, please contact us for an update."

    What does it mean? I assume background check was done in 2012 when I filed 485. I am already 60 days past RFE, is there anyway I would make this year Visa number? Thanks for your suggestion.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What is the date on the Senator reply's letter ?

      Delete
    2. Ambal - Senator replied on August 27th. My RFERR was 26th June. It was simple medical RFE. Can you suggest next step. Just FYI.. Info pass did not help.

      Delete
  60. Hello Ambals,

    Welcome Back!!

    Thanks for your analysis on Sep 2014 Visa Bulletin.

    My PD is Oct 15th 2009(EB2I) got RFE for medicals for me and my dependents.

    Is there any possibility that dates will move in Oct 2014 VB incase they want to use the FY2015 visas.

    Also you always say moving EB2 China dates are good,Their dates may move to Nov 2009 in the Oct 2014 VB and any chances for EB2I to move till Oct 31st 2009 as they issued RFE for medicals etc.

    Appreciate your comments.

    Thanks,
    Ambals Fan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have no clue why USCIS send RFE's for OCT 09 if they clearly dont have visa availability. Need to pay medicals twice if this RFE is issued by mistake..

      Delete
    2. Only reason, I can think of is, they are trying for the first time and they are also learning.

      Delete
  61. Hi Ambals. Any guess on when will retrogression happen and how far will dates go back ?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it will happen in December visa bulletin.

      Delete
  62. Hi Ambals,
    My PD is apr 2004 EB3 when will I get my GC?

    ReplyDelete
  63. Hi Ambals,
    My PD is Apr 2004 eb3 when will I get my GC?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Never...................
      Port.....................

      Delete
    2. There are about 5200 applicants in front of you. Given this, it will be about 18 more months.
      You can still consider porting.

      Delete
  64. Date got current in July , 1st timer for 485 application. Been a month since fingerprinting but no update on case status online since they received our paperwork ( July 2nd) should I be concerned

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hi Ambals..greetings from Texas.
    My priority date is 10 Feb. 2011-EB2 (NIW). I was tod by my lawyer that if I go out of US, I can still apply for the I-485 by consular processing. Do you think this is a good idea. Some friends say that it is painful and is a time taking process, especialy if you are in India.
    Can you pease comment? Any statistics that you know is available on consular processing?
    Thanks a lot

    ReplyDelete
  66. As people get RFE's for October 2009, does it mean the date will move to October 09 and then retrogress? Can some one please clarify?

    ReplyDelete
  67. Hi Ambals,

    Thank you for all the time that you are committing to answer everyone's questions here. Appreciate it.

    When do you think I can expect GC - my pd is 11-Dec-2003 EB3 India?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was hoping it will move atleast one week every bulletin. But, it didn't move this time. Assuming, it will move one week at a time, it should be current in 4 months. Hopefully, it will be sooner with all the porting.

      Delete
  68. Hi, I had interviewed last year in Jan,my pd is 2007 eb2. Then they transfer my case from local to texas for speedy process in August. I have not received any thing from them yet. So what I should expect and what can I do to get answer. Please reply me

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hello, Ambals. I am a first time filer of I-485(PD Sep 18, 2008). My file was transferred to Nebraska Service center from phoenix lock box and the receipt date is Aug 4 and Aug 7, 2014. It about a month now and I haven't received the notice for finger printing. What are my chances of getting GC this year?? Can I expect it in or before December? thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  70. Hello, My wife's case was transferred to local office because lawyer had filed 485 twice, since the first application was sent to the wrong address and the second was filed because there was no response for the first one for a few weeks. Finally both got accepted, and when lawyer sent a letter explaining the mistake and requested for consolidating both applications, we got update today saying that the case has been transferred to local office.
    Primary applicant (myself) PD is current, EB3 India , Oct 2003. Under RFE Response Review for medical report.
    Not sure what to expect.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Hi Ambals..greetings from Texas.
    My priority date is 10 Feb. 2011-EB2 (NIW). I was tod by my lawyer that if I go out of US, I can still apply for the I-485 by consular processing. Do you think this is a good idea. Some friends say that it is painful and is a time taking process, especialy if you are in India.
    Can you pease comment? Any statistics that you know is available on consular processing?
    Thanks a lot

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

    ReplyDelete
  73. Dear Shining Star Ambals,

    Have PD of Oct 2008 under EB2, filed in August 8,2014, first timer, got finder printing done on Sep 2.

    When can I expect my GC. You guys are the best and have been a ray of hope in our journey. Please do reply.

    Thanks
    Ambal's Fans

    ReplyDelete
  74. My PD is 10th Sept 2003 EB3-I. I-485 was filed in 2007 & I got a RFE and replied to it couple of months back.

    Question: Once the date is current, how long (days/weeks) does it take to get the physical Green Card in your hand?

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  75. This blog truly has been the best source for immigration related information. I just the 2 emails in the space of hours today from USCIS:
    1st email:
    Application Type: I485 , APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS
    Your Case Status: Card/ Document Production
    On September 5, 2014, we ordered production of your new card......
    2nd email:
    Application Type: I485 , APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS
    Your Case Status: Decision
    On September 5, 2014, we mailed you a notice that we had registered this customer's new permanent resident status......
    Does it signify anything in terms of getting a green card ?
    I am already nervous !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You got the GC. Congrats :) Its the same email they send everyone. I also got them yesterday.

      Delete
    2. Thanks and congrats to you too. Its been such a grind that I am only programmed to be a pessimist in this case. Will believe it when I get it in physical form.;)

      Delete
    3. Congratulations and happy for you!

      Delete
  76. Hi for Apr 2010 PD when can we expect GC dates ?

    ReplyDelete
  77. http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-delays-executive-immigration-action-until-after-midterm-elections-in-november/2014/09/06/e3ecf346-35cf-11e4-9e92-0899b306bbea_story.html

    ReplyDelete
  78. Any first time filers got thier GC?

    ReplyDelete
  79. My PD is May 23rd 2008, EB2 , at Texas Service Center - Responded to RFE in in 2012 - still shows that application is at initial review on USCIS case status. I already contacted Senator's once last year and agin this year. Is there any possibility I get GC this year before dates get retrogessed.
    Thanks. Appreciate your response Mr. Ambal

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You should contact your attorney and open SR request.

      Delete
  80. My PD is Dec 13, 2008. Filed i485 on Sept 2nd @Nebrasca Service Center. What are my chances to get GC this year?

    ReplyDelete
  81. Got an email with I485 case status update for me and dependent to "Card/ Document Production" ! - PD feb 2009 (EB2I).
    I was quite disappointed with the news yesterday about internal retrogression, seems like there is still a glimmer of hope.
    Thanks to Ambals for your posts, they have been accurate and insightful.

    ReplyDelete
  82. You mentioned your PD is feb 2009 ( EB 2 ), are you a first time filer ? If so, when did you file your EAD & when did USCIS receive it ? Please post these details as it will be helpful for others. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi,
      By first time filer do you mean if I filed 485 in 2014, in that case, No, 485 was filed in Feb 2012. EAD received April 2012.

      Delete
  83. Yes I meant if you filed your 485 in 2014. Thanks for the update.

    ReplyDelete
  84. EB-3 ROW - any forward movement for December 2014 visa bulletin? If so, how many months it may move forward? Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Hi Ganesh

    We have PD July 2007 eb2. We got an RFE couple of dats back for medical test and updated information. Is there a chance to we GC this year??

    ReplyDelete
  86. approximately by when will a PD of Jan 2012 become current for the category EB3-ROW? thanks

    ReplyDelete