Title: February 2026 Visa Bulletin: Essential Updates for US Green Card Applicants
Date: [Insert Current Date Here, e.g., January 25, 2026]
The much-anticipated February 2026 Visa Bulletin has officially been released by the U.S. Department of State (DOS), offering crucial insights for aspiring US Green Card holders. Understanding this monthly update is vital for anyone tracking their immigrant visa or adjustment of status application, as it dictates the availability of green card numbers for both family-sponsored and employment-based categories. At Boundless, we're dedicated to simplifying these complex updates, helping you navigate your immigration journey with confidence.
The Visa Bulletin serves as the definitive guide for when immigrant visas become available to applicants based on their "priority date." This date is generally the day your immigration petition (Form I-130 for family, Form I-140 for employment) was correctly filed. Each month, the bulletin displays two key charts for various visa categories and countries of chargeability: "Final Action Dates" and "Dates for Filing." The Final Action Dates indicate when a green card can actually be issued, while the Dates for Filing show when applicants can submit their adjustment of status application (Form I-485) to USCIS, provided USCIS accepts these dates for the given month. It's imperative to check both charts to understand your current standing.
For applicants in family-sponsored preference categories (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, F4), the February 2026 Visa Bulletin reveals specific movements – or lack thereof – across various nationalities. Categories like F1 (unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens) and F4 (brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens) often experience significant backlogs, particularly for individuals from countries such as Mexico, the Philippines, and India. It's essential to locate your specific category and country to see if your priority date has become current or if there has been any advancement in the cutoff dates.
Similarly, the employment-based preference categories (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5) are also detailed. The February 2026 update will show how cutoff dates have progressed, stagnated, or even retrogressed for skilled workers, professionals, and investors. EB-2 and EB-3 categories, in particular, frequently see substantial backlogs for applicants born in China and India. If you are an applicant for an employment-based green card, carefully reviewing these charts is your next step to determine if you can move forward with your application.
We strongly encourage all applicants to review the official February 2026 Visa Bulletin on the Department of State website for the most precise and up-to-date information pertaining to their individual circumstances. Changes in visa availability can directly impact your timeline for receiving a green card. Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney or leveraging resources like Boundless can provide personalized guidance and clarify how these dates apply to your specific case, ensuring you take the correct next steps in your immigration process. Stay informed, stay prepared, and let Boundless assist you in understanding these vital updates.
