January 2026 Visa Bulletin: Key Advancements
The U.S. Department of State released the January 2026 Visa Bulletin, showing progress in employment-based categories. USCIS confirmed applicants should use the Dates for Filing chart for adjustment of status filings, providing 2–10 extra months depending on category and country.
Final Action Dates advanced in most cases, with notable gains for China (up to 1 year in EB-3 Other Workers) and modest movement for India. Family-sponsored categories saw limited changes, with backlogs persisting for countries like Mexico and the Philippines.
Employment-Based Highlights
- EB-1: Current for most; China and India advance to August 1, 2023 (Dates for Filing).
- EB-2: Advances of 1–3 months for China/India; India backlog remains significant (~12+ years).
- EB-3: Slow progress; China gains up to 1 year in some subcategories.
- EB-5 Investors: Continued forward movement expected following strong December gains.
These updates allow more applicants to file I-485 forms, though final green card approval requires a current Final Action Date.
USCIS Policy Changes & Adjudication Pauses
USCIS expanded holds on green card adjudications (I-485) for nationals of 39 countries under the expanded travel ban (effective January 1, 2026). This includes retroactive re-reviews of approvals since January 2021, impacting Adjustment of Status, green card renewals (I-90), and related forms.
Green card holders from affected countries face no direct entry restrictions, but processing delays are widespread. USCIS also announced premium processing fee increases effective March 1, 2026, to account for inflation.
Premium Processing Fee Updates (Effective March 2026)
- Form I-129 (certain categories): $1,780 (up from $1,685)
- Other forms: Increases vary; check USCIS for details.
Additional proposals include expanded biometrics collection, potentially lengthening times for green card applications.
USCIS oversees green card applications and has implemented key policy changes in January 2026.
Other Notable Green Card Developments in 2026
The Diversity Visa (DV-2026) program continues, with Entrant Status Check open until September 30, 2026. Selectees must monitor the Visa Bulletin for interview scheduling.
Proposed public charge rules and increased enforcement may affect future green card approvals. Green card holders should maintain U.S. residency requirements to avoid issues under stricter 2026 policies.
How to Stay Updated on Green Card News
Monitor official sources: Check the monthly Visa Bulletin and USCIS Newsroom. Consult an immigration attorney for personalized advice on your case amid these changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed in the January 2026 Visa Bulletin?
Employment-based categories saw forward movement, with USCIS using the Dates for Filing chart for I-485 filings, allowing earlier submissions in many cases.
Are green card applications paused for certain countries?
Yes, USCIS paused final adjudication for nationals of 39 countries under the expanded travel ban, with re-reviews of prior approvals since 2021.
When do premium processing fees increase?
Fees rise on March 1, 2026, for forms like I-129; submit requests before then to avoid higher costs.
How do I check DV-2026 lottery status?
Use your confirmation number at dvprogram.state.gov/ESC; results remain available until September 30, 2026.
Do current green card holders face restrictions?
Green card holders are exempt from the travel ban entry restrictions but should maintain U.S. ties to avoid residency issues.
Where can I find official green card updates?
Visit USCIS.gov and Travel.State.gov for the latest Visa Bulletins and policy announcements.
