October 2024 brings important updates regarding visa application dates and the Diversity Immigrant (DV) category. This guide provides a clear overview of the key changes and information relevant to those seeking to immigrate to the United States. Understanding these updates is crucial for navigating the application process effectively.
Employment-Based Visa Application Dates
The following chart reflects the dates for filing employment-based visa applications. It’s important to note that these dates are subject to change, and applicants should consult the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information. If your priority date is earlier than the date listed, you may be eligible to submit your documentation to the National Visa Center (NVC).
| Employment- based | All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed | CHINA- mainland born | INDIA | MEXICO | PHILIPPINES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | C | 01JAN23 | 15APR22 | C | C |
| 2nd | 01AUG23 | 01OCT20 | 01JAN13 | 01AUG23 | 01AUG23 |
| 3rd | 01MAR23 | 15NOV20 | 08JUN13 | 01MAR23 | 01MAR23 |
| Other Workers | 22MAY21 | 01JAN18 | 08JUN13 | 22MAY21 | 22MAY21 |
| 4th | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 |
| Certain Religious Workers | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 | 01FEB21 |
| 5th Unreserved (including C5, T5, I5, R5) | C | 01OCT16 | 01APR22 | C | C |
| 5th Set Aside: (Rural – 20%) | C | C | C | C | C |
| 5th Set Aside: (High Unemployment – 10%) | C | C | C | C | C |
| 5th Set Aside: (Infrastructure – 2%) | C | C | C | C | C |
Understanding the Chart:
- C: Indicates that the category is current, and applications may be filed regardless of the applicant’s priority date.
- Date Listing: Only applicants with a priority date earlier than the listed date may file their application.
Employment Third Preference Other Workers (EW) Category Update
The Employment Third Preference Other Workers (EW) category is subject to certain reductions based on the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA). For Fiscal Year 2025, this reduction will be limited to approximately 150.
Diversity Immigrant (DV) Category for October
The Diversity Visa program makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available each fiscal year to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. However, the NACARA stipulates that up to 5,000 of these visas may be used for adjustments under the NACARA program. Furthermore, Section 5104 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 amended the NACARA’s provisions on the DV program, further reducing the DV-2025 annual limit.
For October, immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2025 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. Visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers below the specified allocation cut-off number:
| Region | All DV Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed Separately | |
|---|---|---|
| AFRICA | 15,000 | Except: Algeria 6,500 Egypt 8,250 Morocco 8,250 |
| ASIA | 3,000 | Except: Iran 2,950 Nepal 2,950 |
| EUROPE | 6,000 | Except: Russia 5,950 Uzbekistan 4,900 |
| NORTH AMERICA (BAHAMAS) | 2 | |
| OCEANIA | 500 | |
| SOUTH AMERICA, and the CARIBBEAN | 825 |
Important Considerations for DV-2025 Applicants
- Entitlement to immigrant status in the DV category lasts only through the end of the fiscal year for which the applicant is selected. For DV-2025, this means September 30, 2025.
- DV visas cannot be issued to DV-2025 applicants after September 30, 2025.
- Spouses and children accompanying or following to join DV-2025 principals are only entitled to derivative DV status until September 30, 2025.
- DV visa availability through the very end of FY-2025 cannot be guaranteed. Numbers could be exhausted prior to September 30.
Diversity Immigrant (DV) Category Rank Cut-Offs for November
Looking ahead, the DV category rank cut-offs for November are as follows:
| Region | All DV Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed Separately | |
|---|---|---|
| AFRICA | 15,000 | Except: Algeria 6,500 Egypt 8,250 Morocco 8,250 |
| ASIA | 3,000 | Except: Iran 2,950 Nepal 2,950 |
| EUROPE | 6,000 | Except: Russia 5,950 Uzbekistan 4,900 |
| NORTH AMERICA (BAHAMAS) | 2 | |
| OCEANIA | 500 | |
| SOUTH AMERICA, and the CARIBBEAN | 825 |
Scheduled Expiration of the Employment Fourth Preference Religious Workers (SR) Category
The Employment Fourth Preference Certain Religious Workers (SR) category was extended until September 30, 2024. As of October, the SR category is listed as “Unavailable” for all countries. If the category is extended by legislative action, it is likely it will become available immediately, subject to the same final action dates as the other Employment Fourth Preference categories.
U.S. Government Employee Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 may affect certain current and former employees of the U.S. Government abroad applying for SIVs or adjustment of status. Applicants should contact the consular section at which they filed their Form DS-1884 for further information.
Staying Informed
For the latest information on visa processing, visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at travel.state.gov. This is your go-to resource for updates and detailed guidance. Always verify the most current information before making decisions about your application process. This will assist you in planning Where To Travel October 2024!
