The U.S. Department of State has released the April 2026 Visa Bulletin, showing meaningful forward movement in several employment-based categories, continued strength in family-based filings – especially F2A – and further expansion in the Diversity Visa (DV-2026) program.
As the fiscal year progresses, April reflects a shift from early-year conservatism toward measured advancement, particularly in EB-2 and EB-3 categories. At the same time, the Department of State continues to balance visa allocation across regions while monitoring demand closely.
Family-Sponsored Categories – Final Action Dates
F1 – Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens
All Chargeability / China / India: May 1, 2017
Mexico: February 15, 2007
Philippines: May 1, 2013
Trend & Projection:
F1 shows modest forward movement compared to prior months, though demand continues to limit faster advancement.
F2A – Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents
All Chargeability / China / India / Philippines: February 1, 2024
Mexico: February 1, 2023
Important Note:
F2A remains strong, with a significant development in the Dates for Filing chart now listed as “Current” for all countries.
Trend & Projection:
F2A continues to be the most favorable family-based category, with potential for further forward movement later in FY-2026.
F2B – Unmarried Adult Children of Permanent Residents
All Chargeability / China / India: May 22, 2017
Mexico: February 15, 2009
Philippines: April 8, 2013
Trend & Projection:
F2B shows incremental advancement but remains slow overall.
F3 – Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens
All Chargeability / China / India: December 22, 2011
Mexico: May 1, 2001
Philippines: July 1, 2005
Trend & Projection:
F3 continues gradual forward movement, though progress remains limited.
F4 – Brothers and Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens
All Chargeability / China: June 8, 2008
India: November 1, 2006
Mexico: April 8, 2001
Philippines: February 1, 2007
Trend & Projection:
F4 remains heavily backlogged, with only modest progress.
Family-Sponsored Categories – Dates for Filing
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F1: March 1, 2018 (Mexico: April 15, 2008; Philippines: April 22, 2015)
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F2A: Current (All Countries)
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F2B: August 8, 2017 (Mexico: May 15, 2010; Philippines: October 1, 2013)
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F3: November 22, 2012 (Mexico: July 1, 2001; Philippines: July 15, 2006)
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F4: May 15, 2009 (India: December 15, 2006; Mexico: April 30, 2001; Philippines: March 22, 2008)
Trend & Projection:
The “Current” designation for F2A filing is a key development, encouraging adjustment filings for eligible applicants.
Employment-Based Categories – Final Action Dates
EB-1 – Priority Workers
All Chargeability: Current
China: April 1, 2023
India: April 1, 2023
Trend & Projection:
EB-1 continues steady advancement for China and India.
EB-2 – Advanced Degree / Exceptional Ability
All Chargeability: Current
China: September 1, 2021
India: July 15, 2014
Trend & Projection:
EB-2 shows strong progress, particularly for India, reflecting improved visa availability.
EB-3 – Skilled Workers and Professionals
All Chargeability: June 1, 2024
China: June 15, 2021
India: November 15, 2013
Philippines: August 1, 2023
Trend & Projection:
EB-3 continues meaningful advancement, especially for worldwide categories.
EB-3 Other Workers
All Chargeability: November 1, 2021
China: February 1, 2019
India: November 15, 2013
NACARA-related reductions continue to impact visa availability in this category.
EB-4 – Special Immigrants
Final Action Date: July 15, 2022
Trend & Projection:
EB-4 sees slight advancement, reflecting continued demand and legislative adjustments.
EB-5 – Immigrant Investors
Unreserved:
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China: September 1, 2016
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India: May 1, 2022
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All Other Countries: Current
Set-Asides (Rural, High Unemployment, Infrastructure):
All remain Current
Trend & Projection:
EB-5 Set-Asides continue to offer the most favorable path for investors.
Diversity Visa (DV-2026)
April shows continued expansion in DV cut-off numbers:
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Africa: 55,000 (Algeria 37,000; Egypt 30,000)
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Asia: 35,000 (Nepal 10,000)
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Europe: 20,000
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North America (Bahamas): 50
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Oceania: 1,500
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South America / Caribbean: 3,000
DV availability continues to expand as expected mid-year.
Additional Notes
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Visa issuance rates from certain countries remain reduced due to national security and policy measures, prompting forward movement in other categories.
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Retrogression later in FY-2026 remains possible depending on demand.
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Applicants should monitor USCIS guidance on whether Final Action Dates or Filing Dates charts apply for adjustment filings.
Bottom Line
The April 2026 Visa Bulletin marks a notable shift toward stronger employment-based movement, particularly in EB-2 and EB-3 categories, while family-based categories continue steady progress. The “Current” status for F2A filing dates and expanding DV numbers further highlight increased visa availability as the fiscal year progresses.
Looking ahead, continued advancement is possible through summer 2026, though retrogression remains a risk if demand increases.
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