EB-3 Visa Priority Date Explained Simply
Introduction
If you’re applying for the EB-3 visa, you’ve probably heard of something called the “priority date.” And let’s be honest—it sounds confusing at first. Is it a deadline? A waiting list? Some hidden number only lawyers understand?
Let’s clear things up.
In simple terms, your EB-3 priority date is your place in line for a green card. Understanding what it means, how it’s set, and how to monitor it is key to successfully completing the EB-3 visa process.
This guide breaks it down in plain English—no legal jargon, just the facts. We’ll also show you how a certified U.S. immigration consultant can help you manage your case, avoid delays, and stay on track.
What is the EB-3 Visa?
The EB-3 visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa available to:
- Skilled workers (2+ years of experience or training)
- Professionals (with a bachelor’s degree)
- Unskilled workers (no degree, less than 2 years of experience)
Once approved, EB-3 allows you and your family to receive green cards and live in the United States permanently.
But here’s the twist: the U.S. government issues a limited number of green cards each year, and they’re distributed based on your priority date.
What is a Priority Date?
Your priority date is the day your place in the green card line officially begins.
Think of it like pulling a number at a busy restaurant. You’ve submitted your request, but now you have to wait until your number is called.
In EB-3 terms, your priority date is the date when:
- Your PERM Labor Certification is filed with the Department of Labor, or
- If no PERM is required, the date your I-140 Immigrant Petition is filed
This date becomes your identity in the immigration queue—and determines when you can move to the next stage.
How is the Priority Date Determined?
For most EB-3 applicants, your priority date is based on the PERM labor certification filing date. That’s the document your U.S. employer submits to the Department of Labor, proving there are no qualified U.S. workers for your job.
Once that is filed, your priority date is “locked in.”
Quick breakdown:
- Step 1: Employer files PERM → Priority date is set
- Step 2: After PERM approval → Employer files Form I-140
- Step 3: You wait until your priority date becomes “current”
Why the Priority Date Matters
The U.S. only issues a certain number of green cards every year. Because demand is high and supply is limited, applicants are put in line based on their priority date.
Here’s why it’s important:
- You cannot apply for your green card (Adjustment of Status or immigrant visa interview) until your priority date becomes current
- It determines how long you’ll wait
- Country of birth affects your wait time
Bottom line: Your priority date controls the pace of your EB-3 journey.
Understanding the Visa Bulletin
The U.S. State Department publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin, which shows two critical charts:
- Final Action Dates – When USCIS will actually approve green cards
- Dates for Filing – When you can submit your green card application early (AOS or DS-260)
To see when your priority date is current, match your:
- Visa category (EB-3)
- Country of birth
- Priority date
…with the dates in the bulletin.
Country-Specific Priority Dates
Not every country faces the same wait. That’s because the U.S. places per-country limits on green cards each year.
Countries with Longer Waits:
- India
- China
- Philippines (occasionally)
Countries with Shorter Waits:
- Most Middle East nations
- Africa
- Europe
- Latin America
This is why a factory worker from Egypt may get their green card faster than a software engineer from India.
Current EB-3 Backlogs by Country (Example)
|
Country
|
Estimated Wait Time
|
|---|---|
|
India
|
6–10 years
|
|
China
|
2–5 years
|
|
Philippines
|
1–2 years
|
|
Rest of World
|
6–12 months
|
Always refer to the latest Visa Bulletin for the most accurate information.
What Happens When Your Priority Date is Current?
Once your priority date is “current” on the Visa Bulletin:
- If you’re in the U.S., you can file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- If you’re outside the U.S., you can move forward with consular processing via your local U.S. embassy
Make sure all your documents are ready:
- Medical exam
- Police clearance
- Updated job offer
- Proof of eligibility
Your immigration consultant can help you submit everything on time to avoid delays.
Can Priority Dates Move Backward?
Yes, and it’s called retrogression.
Sometimes, if too many applications are submitted in a category or country, the Visa Bulletin moves backward. This means your priority date was current—but is now no longer current.
If this happens:
- Your pending application will be paused
- You’ll need to wait until it becomes current again
This is frustrating but common. Having a professional immigration consultant ensures you act fast when your window reopens.
How Long is the Wait Time for EB-3?
It depends on:
- Your country of birth
- Your job category (skilled, unskilled, professional)
- Annual visa availability
Can You Change Employers While Waiting?
In some cases, yes—but it’s complicated.
If your I-140 has been approved and you’ve waited 180+ days, you may be eligible for portability under certain rules. But:
- The new job must be similar to the original job offer
- Changing employers during PERM or before I-140 approval can reset your priority date
Always consult an immigration expert before making any employment changes.
How to Track Your Priority Date
- Bookmark the U.S. Visa Bulletin (updated monthly)
- Set calendar reminders to check your status
- Stay in touch with your attorney or immigration consultant
- Use online case trackers (like USCIS case status tools)
Your consultant can help interpret the charts for your specific case.
Common Mistakes with Priority Dates
- Thinking your priority date is the I-140 filing date (when it's actually the PERM date for most EB-3 cases)
- Submitting green card applications too early
- Missing updates on Visa Bulletin changes
- Trusting incorrect advice from unlicensed agents
Mistakes with your priority date can delay your entire immigration journey by years.
Why You Should Work with an Immigration Consultant
Working with a licensed U.S. immigration consultant or attorney can:
- Ensure your priority date is filed and tracked properly
- Help you respond quickly when your date becomes current
- Prevent delays due to incorrect documentation
- Provide peace of mind that your case is moving forward legally and efficiently
Conclusion
Understanding the EB-3 priority date doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s simply the number that determines your place in the line for a green card—and your timing depends on it.
By learning how it works, staying informed, and working with a trusted U.S. immigration expert, you can avoid delays, avoid mistakes, and move one step closer to your dream life in America.
Don’t leave your future up to chance—act smart, stay informed, and get professional support.
Want expert help with your EB-3 visa? Contact a certified U.S. immigration consultant today. They’ll track your priority date, prepare your documents, and guide you every step of the way.
Disclaimer:
Some content on this website may be created or assisted using AI technology and is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial, or immigration advice. Please consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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