October 2025 Visa Bulletin Released: Key Actions for Applicants

The U.S. Department of State has released the October 2025 Visa Bulletin, marking the start of the new federal fiscal year and bringing updated priority dates for employment-based and family-based immigration categories. The bulletin is a critical monthly publication that determines who may file immigrant visa applications or adjustment of status petitions. For EB-3 applicants — including skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled (other) workers — the October bulletin is especially significant as fiscal year transitions often bring meaningful movement in priority dates. The start of a new fiscal year resets annual per-country visa quotas, which can result in forward advancement for retrogressed categories. Immigration law firm Reddy Neumann Brown PC advises applicants to carefully review both the 'Final Action Dates' and 'Dates for Filing' charts, as USCIS may authorize the use of the more favorable Dates for Filing chart. Applicants whose priority dates become current may be eligible to file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) or proceed with consular processing. Key action items include verifying your priority date against the new bulletin, consulting with your immigration attorney about filing eligibility, and gathering required supporting documents in advance. Applicants should also monitor for any USCIS announcements regarding which chart will be accepted for the month of October.