State Department Releases April 2026 Visa Bulletin: EB-1 & EB-2 India Updates

The U.S. Department of State has published the April 2026 Visa Bulletin, introducing notable updates primarily affecting Indian nationals in the EB-1 and EB-2 employment-based preference categories. The bulletin signals forward movement in final action dates for these categories, which could allow more applicants to proceed with their immigrant visa applications or adjust their status. USCIS has confirmed it will continue accepting applications based on the Dates of Filing chart rather than the Final Action Dates chart for eligible categories. This distinction is significant for applicants in backlogged categories, as it may allow earlier filing of Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) even when a visa number is not yet immediately available. While the bulletin highlights EB-1 and EB-2 progress for India, EB-3 applicants should also review the updated charts carefully. Changes in higher preference categories can indirectly affect EB-3 visa availability by influencing overall annual usage and spillover of unused visa numbers across categories. Applicants and attorneys are encouraged to compare the April 2026 Final Action Dates and Dates of Filing charts against their priority dates to determine eligibility for filing or visa issuance this month. Consulting with an immigration attorney is advisable for those approaching or crossing a cutoff date.