As fiscal year 2024 comes to a close, the September Visa Bulletin shows setbacks in all employment-based categories.  

Of particular note is the complete use of EB-1 visa numbers, meaning no further EB-1 visas (or green cards) will be issued until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2024. 

Adding to the complexity, the EB-3 category across all chargeability areas will retrogress by a full year. This retrogression, coupled with the Department of State’s (DOS) warning that high demand may soon render other categories like EB-2 unavailable, underscores the high demand in employment-based immigration.

Looking ahead, the DOS suggests advancements in the October 2024 Visa Bulletin, the progress is expected to be modest.  

These retrogressions and limited advancements are not uncommon in the complex and dynamic world of immigration and flexibility and patience are keys to success.