March 2026 Visa Bulletin: EB-3 Advances Up to 4 Months, EB-2 Dates for Filing Go Current

The U.S. Department of State has released the March 2026 Visa Bulletin, and it brings notable forward movement across several employment-based preference categories. USCIS has confirmed it will continue honoring the Dates for Filing chart for adjustment of status purposes in March, allowing applicants with earlier priority dates to file Form I-485 even before a visa number is immediately available. For EB-3 Professionals and Skilled Workers, the bulletin delivers meaningful advancement. Mexico and Worldwide (all other countries) move forward 4 months to October 1, 2023, while Philippines advances 2 months to August 1, 2023. India remains unchanged at November 15, 2013, and China holds at May 1, 2021. EB-3 Other Workers for Mexico, Philippines, and Worldwide categories each advance 2 months to November 1, 2021. A headline development this month is in the EB-2 category: all countries except China will become current on the Dates for Filing chart, meaning eligible applicants from most countries can immediately file for adjustment of status regardless of their Final Action Date. India's EB-2 Dates for Filing advances 11 months to November 1, 2014, a significant jump. For EB-3 applicants in the Philippines, Mexico, or under the Worldwide chargeability, the continued forward movement represents steady progress. Those with priority dates approaching the new cutoffs should work with their attorneys to prepare filing packages in advance to avoid delays when their dates become current on the Final Action chart. Applicants should note that Final Action Dates—which govern when a visa can actually be issued or a case approved—differ from Dates for Filing. Confirming eligibility under the correct chart with an immigration attorney before submitting any filings is strongly recommended.