On September 15, the Department of State released the October visa bulletin, which was the first bulletin for fiscal year 2024. Although there was some expected movement forward in most categories, it was not as much as anticipated, leaving many waiting applicants quite frustrated at the long delays. The DOS did note that they would go by quarterly limits so there may be further advancements throughout the fiscal year.
On a bright note, USCIS determined that applicants can use the “Filing Dates” charts instead of the “Final Action Date” charts for both family based and employment based categories. What this means is that applicants can file adjustment of status applications much earlier than the final action priority dates, which will impact a significant number of immigrants who are in the US waiting to change status. As for those waiting for consulate appointments, it will be a longer wait until the final action dates move forward.
You can click on the following link to access a document discussing the visa bulletin and how it works: https://subhani-law.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-is-the-Visa-Bulletin.docx
