Visa Bulletin May 2026: Priority Dates & Category Updates
May 2026 visa bulletin analysis with priority date changes for family-sponsored and employment-based categories.
Published on May 1, 2026· Updated July 1, 2026
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The U.S. Department of State has released the Visa Bulletin for May 2026. This monthly update determines when immigrants can apply for their green cards based on their priority date and preference category. Below, our immigration attorneys break down the key changes and what they mean for your case.
If your priority date is before the date listed for your category, you may be eligible to file your green card application. Contact our office at 1-844-967-3536 for a free case evaluation.
Waiting on a priority date?
If your category just moved or stalled, our team can tell you what it means for your case in a 15-min call.
Family-Sponsored Preference Categories
| Category | Final Action Date | Movement |
|---|---|---|
| F1 - Unmarried Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens | 01SEP17 | |
| F2A - Spouses/Children of Permanent Residents | 01AUG24 | |
| F2B - Unmarried Sons/Daughters (21+) of Permanent Residents | 22MAY17 | |
| F3 - Married Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens | 15FEB12 | |
| F4 - Brothers/Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens | 15SEP08 | |
| F1 - Unmarried Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens | 01OCT18 | |
| F2A - Spouses/Children of Permanent Residents | Current | |
| F2B - Unmarried Sons/Daughters (21+) of Permanent Residents | 01JAN18 | |
| F3 - Married Sons/Daughters of U.S. Citizens | 08DEC12 | |
| F4 - Brothers/Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens | 01SEP09 |
Country-Specific Changes
The following country-specific changes were noted in this month's bulletin:
- China: 10 category change(s) — F1: 01SEP17, F2A: 01AUG24, F2B: 22MAY17, F3: 15FEB12, F4: 15SEP08, F1: 01OCT18, F2A: Current, F2B: 01JAN18, F3: 08DEC12, F4: 01SEP09
- India: 10 category change(s) — F1: 01SEP17, F2A: 01AUG24, F2B: 22MAY17, F3: 15FEB12, F4: 01NOV06, F1: 01OCT18, F2A: Current, F2B: 01JAN18, F3: 08DEC12, F4: 15DEC06
- Mexico: 10 category change(s) — F1: 15AUG07, F2A: 01AUG23, F2B: 15FEB09, F3: 01MAY01, F4: 08APR01, F1: 01OCT08, F2A: Current, F2B: 15MAY10, F3: 15JUL01, F4: 30APR01
- Philippines: 10 category change(s) — F1: 01MAY13, F2A: 01AUG24, F2B: 08APR13, F3: 22NOV05, F4: 15JUL07, F1: 22APR15, F2A: Current, F2B: 01OCT13, F3: 08AUG06, F4: 22MAR08
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Visa Bulletin?
What's Your Immigration Situation?
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Question 1 / 3
What best describes your situation?
The Visa Bulletin is a monthly publication by the U.S. Department of State that shows when immigrant visa numbers become available for each preference category and country of chargeability. It determines when you can file your green card application.
Keep Reading
What does "Current" mean?
"Current" means visa numbers are available for all applicants in that category, regardless of priority date. You can file your green card application immediately.
Should I use Final Action Dates or Dates for Filing?
USCIS announces each month which chart to use. Generally, the "Dates for Filing" chart allows earlier filing but does not guarantee approval. Check the USCIS website for the current guidance.
How can Vasquez Law Firm help?
Our experienced immigration attorneys monitor visa bulletin changes monthly and proactively contact clients when their priority dates become current. We handle the entire green card application process, from initial filing to interview preparation. Call 1-844-967-3536 for a free evaluation.
Need Help Understanding Your Priority Date?
The visa bulletin can be confusing. Our immigration team at Vasquez Law Firm reviews every monthly bulletin and reaches out to clients whose dates have become current. Don't miss your window — contact us today for a free case evaluation.
William Vasquez
Founder & CEO, Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC
William Vasquez is the founder and CEO of Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC, a results-driven firm specializing in immigration, criminal defense, family law, personal injury, and workers' compensation. A U.S. Air Force veteran and recipient of the Joint Service Achievement Medal, William is dedicated to fiercely fighting for his clients' rights.
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