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April 2026 Visa Bulletin Analysis: EB Category Movement & Filing Strategy

The State Department released the April 2026 Visa Bulletin. EB-1 China-born dates continue advancing and EB-5 rural remains current. Full breakdown of each category with filing advice.

March 22, 20265 min read
Attorney Carrie PengThe Peng Law

The U.S. Department of State has released the April 2026 Visa Bulletin. Here is the latest movement and analysis for major employment-based categories.

EB-1 Category

China-born EB-1 Final Action Date advanced to April 2023, moving forward approximately two months from the prior month. India-born dates also progressed. EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C are all subject to this date.

EB-2 Category (Including NIW)

China-born EB-2 movement remains slow, with the Final Action Date at August 2020, advancing only about one month. Applicants with earlier priority dates should check the "Dates for Filing" chart for potentially earlier I-485 filing eligibility.

EB-3 Category

China-born EB-3 advanced slightly to March 2020. The gap between EB-2 and EB-3 continues narrowing, prompting some applicants to consider simultaneous EB-2/EB-3 filing or "downgrade" strategies.

EB-5 Category

EB-5 rural set-aside remains "Current" (no backlog), making it highly attractive for investors. The unreserved China-born date is March 2016. We encourage interested investors to take advantage of the rural category window.

Filing Strategy Advice

For applicants whose priority dates are approaching, prepare your I-485 package in advance — including the medical exam (I-693), birth certificate translations, police clearance certificates, etc. File promptly once your date becomes current to access EAD and Advance Parole sooner. Contact us for a personalized priority date analysis.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and constantly evolving. Please consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.

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April 2026 Visa Bulletin Analysis: EB Category Movement & Filing Strategy | The Peng Law | The Peng Law