The priority dates for all family-based petitions, except for those under the Third Preference (married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens), moved forward by at least 10 days, as shown in the July 2005 monthly Visa Bulletin. However, visa numbers became “unavailable” for both employment-based cases for professionals and skilled workers, and “other” (unskilled) workers. (Nurses and physical therapists’ priority dates, however, are “current.”)

This means that the two employment categories have reached their annual limits, and no adjustment of status or immigrant visa issuance will be made from July through September. With the start of the new fiscal year in October, visas will become available again in these categories. The State Department said it is not possible to make any estimates regarding potential cutoff dates at this time.

Petitions by Citizens:

The priority date for the First Preference Category, F-1  (unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, over 21 years of age) moved forward by more than three weeks, from January 15, 1991 to February 8, 1991.

The Third Preference Category F-3 (married sons and daughters of United States citizens) did not move, and remained at September 1, 1990. (Note: There is now a difference of 5 months and one week in priority dates between unmarried and married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.).

The Fourth Preference, F-4 (brothers and sisters of United States citizens)  moved forward by 10 days, from December 22, 1982 to January 1, 1983.

Petitions by Green Card Holders:

The Second Preference, F-2A (spouse and minor children below 21 years of age, of green card holders) of Family-Based Petitions moved forward by one month, from April 22, 2001 to May 22, 2001.

The Second Preference, F-2B (unmarried sons and daughters, over 21 years of age, of green card holders), moved forward by more than three weeks, from December 8, 1995 to January 1, 1996.