US Visa Bulletin June 2026: EB-1, EB-2 Retrogress for India

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Jun 07,2026

US Visa Bulletin June 2026: EB-1, EB-2 Retrogress for India - TerraTern

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Key Highlights

Backward movement hits Indian workers aiming for U.S. green cards under EB-1 and EB-2 paths in the June 2026 Visa Bulletin. Though dates allowing applications haven’t shifted much, actual approval chances shrink due to tighter cutoffs set by the State Department. Progress that once seemed consistent now stalls, affecting those counting on near-term decisions. With visa processing slowing down despite earlier momentum, planning becomes more critical than before. Fewer slots open up next month, even if the paperwork stays ready. Waiting may stretch longer unless different routes come into view.

 

What Changed in June 2026?

Backward movement hits Indian applicants this month. In June, EB-1 dates slipped around three and a half months from May's lineup. That shift hints at fewer visas open. Meanwhile, EB-2 fell behind by over ten months. Pressure builds where demand outstrips supply. Numbers tell the story: space shrinks fast.

Preference Category

May 2026

June 2026

EB-1 (Priority workers)

01-Apr-23

15-Dec-22

EB-2 (Advanced degree/professionals)

15-Jul-14

01-Sep-13

EB-3 (Skilled workers & professionals)

15-Nov-13

15-Dec-13

Other Workers (Unskilled)

15-Nov-13

15-Dec-13

EB-4 (Special immigrants)

15-Jul-22

15-Jul-22

EB-5 (Unreserved)

01-May-22

01-May-22

Also Read: US Issues Over 1 Million Non-Immigrant Visas to Indians 

 

Can I File AOS When Final Action Dates Retrogress?

continue accepting adjustment-of-status applications from those with earlier Dates for Filing even while Final Action Dates are retrogressed. Applicants should confirm with USCIS whether to file based on the Dates for Filing or Final Action Dates each month. Why retrogression happens

  • Visa retrogression occurs when demand outstrips the monthly visa numbers allocated for a category and country; this is common in India’s EB categories because of heavy demand and long queues.

  • Movement can also reflect priority-date use patterns from prior months and spillover rules between categories and family-based allocations.

Should You File AOS When Final Action Dates Slip?

If USCIS is using the Dates for Filing chart, you might still be able to submit your adjustment-of-status (AOS) application even when Final Action Dates retreat. Confirm with USCIS each month because filing rules change and acceptance does not guarantee immediate approval.

  • Check the current Dates for Filing and Final Action Dates before preparing documents.

  • Confirm USCIS’s monthly filing instructions on their website or through your attorney.

  • Filing early can lock your filing date but won’t speed final approval until the Final Action Date becomes current.

  • Keep copies of proof for timely filing and follow up if USCIS issues a receipt notice.

Filing Now vs Waiting: How Retrogression Affects AOS Choices

Retrogression can force applicants to weigh filing now under Dates for Filing against waiting for a Final Action Date to become current; each choice has trade-offs for work authorization and case timing. Review financial and employment implications before deciding.

  • Filing under Dates for Filing may allow you to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole sooner.

  • Waiting for Final Action Dates reduces the risk of having to refile if filing rules change.

  • Discuss with your employer whether interim nonimmigrant status extensions are needed.

  • Track visa bulletin trends for at least two months before making a final decision.

Also Read: Trump's Re-election Signals Potential Overhaul of H-1B Visa Program 

How to Confirm Whether USCIS Will Accept Your AOS This Month

USCIS announces whether applicants should use the Dates for Filing or Final Action Dates each month, checking that guidance is essential before submitting an AOS packet. Rely on official channels and your attorney for the most accurate direction.

  • Look for the USCIS chart announcement tied to the Department of State’s monthly bulletin.

  • Verify filing location and required forms (I-485, I-765, I-131) per USCIS instructions.

  • If in doubt, contact USCIS support or ask your attorney to request confirmation.

  • Keep an eye on email/USCIS account notices after filing for requests for evidence or notices of acceptance.

 

Conclusion

The US Visa Bulletin June 2026 shows a clear slowdown for Indian employment-based green card applicants as EB-1 and EB-2 final action dates moved backward, and applicants should prepare for longer waits and possible case timing changes. Ensure you check both the Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing each month and confirm USCIS’s filing guidance before submitting forms, because filing under the Dates for Filing may allow you to secure filing benefits while final approval waits for a later date. Check the monthly Visa Bulletin on the U.S. Department of State website. To know more about US visas, visit TerraTern now!

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Mynaz Altaf

Sr. Content Writer

I am Mynaz Altaf, an accomplished Senior Content Manager with extensive experience in the immigration industry. At TerraTern, I craft transformative content strategies, leading a dynamic team of creatives. By blending analytical precision with creative flair, I create engaging narratives that captivate and convert. Join me in exploring the art of impactful storytelling, where precision meets passion in the realm of content innovation.

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality, and relevance. Our content is curated by experienced industry professionals, and reviewed by editors to ensure high standards.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing?

Final Action Dates determine when a green card can be approved because a visa number is available; if your priority date is on or before the Final Action Date, USCIS or a consulate can grant the immigrant visa or adjustment. Dates for filing are an earlier cutoff some months that let USCIS accept adjustment-of-status applications before the Final Action Date becomes current, but final approval still waits until the Final Action Date is reached.

If Final Action Dates retrogress, can I still file my I-485?

You can file an I-485 only if your priority date is on or before the Dates for Filing chart and USCIS instructs applicants to use that chart for filing that month; retrogression of Final Action Dates does not automatically block filing under Dates for Filing, but final adjudication will be delayed until the Final Action Date becomes current.

Will filing under Dates for Filing speed up approval?

No, filing under Dates for Filing may let you lock in a filing date and apply for benefits like work authorization and travel documents sooner, but it does not move your priority date forward or guarantee faster final approval; the case cannot be approved until the Final Action Date is current for your priority date.

How should employers handle talent affected by retrogression?

Employers should review retention options, discuss interim visa strategies (extensions, transfers, or alternate visa classes), and consult immigration counsel to update timelines and contingency plans; open communication with the employee about expected delays helps with planning and reduces risk of unexpected departures.

Where can I get the official monthly guidance to know whether to file?

The authoritative sources are the US Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin (for Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing) and USCIS announcements that state which chart to use for filing; check both agencies’ websites each month and consult an immigration attorney for case-specific guidance.