May 2025 US Visa Bulletin Update: The most recent May 2025 U.S. visa bulletin presents a major obstacle for Indian EB-5 Green Card applicants. S. Priority dates for the Visa Bulletin have been pushed back to May 1, 2019. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this means for Indian investors, H-1B visa holders, and others waiting in line for permanent residency.
May 2025 US Visa Bulletin Update: What Indian Applicants Need to Know
The U.S. Department of State has announced a notable retrogression for Indian nationals under the Employment-Based Fifth Preference (EB-5) category, specifically for unreserved visas. As of May 2025, the new priority date cutoff is set at May 1, 2019—a rollback of more than six months.
China EB-5 Cutoff
For comparison, China’s EB-5 unreserved category remains at January 22, 2014. Meanwhile, for all other countries, the category remains “Current”, meaning no delay.
Visa Bulletin May 2025: Category-Wise Breakdown
Here’s how the priority dates look for other employment-based categories:
EB-1: Extraordinary Ability & Executives
- India: February 2, 2022 (no change)
- China: November 8, 2022
- Rest of World: Current
EB-2: Advanced Degrees & Exceptional Ability
- India: January 1, 2013 (no change)
- China: October 1, 2020
- Others: June 22, 2023
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EB-3: Skilled Workers & Professionals
- India: April 15, 2013 (slight progress)
- China: November 1, 2020
- Others: January 1, 2023
EB-3 Other Workers
- India: April 15, 2013
- China: April 1, 2017
- Others: May 22, 2021
EB-4: Special Immigrants
- All Countries: Unavailable (until October 1, 2025)
EB-5: Investment-Based Green Card
- India (Unreserved): May 1, 2019 (retrogressed)
- China (Unreserved): January 22, 2014
- Others: Current
Why Is the EB-5 Backlog Happening?
Several factors are behind this delay:
- High demand from Indian applicants
- 7% per-country cap on employment-based visas
- Annual EB-5 cap of around 9,800 visas
This creates a traffic jam in visa processing, especially in high-demand countries like India.
Understanding the Visa Bulletin: Filing Dates vs. Final Action Dates
- Dates for Filing: When you can submit your application
- Final Action Dates: When your Green Card may be approved
According to the Final Action Dates specified in the May 2025 bulletin, the USCIS has confirmed that they will accept applications for adjustment of status.
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What Are the Next Steps for Indian EB Applicants and H-1B Holders?
If you’re affected by the EB-5 retrogression or delays in EB-2 and EB-3, here are your options:
Explore rural or TEA-based EB-5 projects, which may have faster processing
Consider switching to EB-1, if eligible (extraordinary ability, multinational manager, etc.)
Consult with a qualified immigration attorney
Monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin for forward movement
Final Thoughts: Delayed, But Not Denied
While the EB-5 setback is disappointing, it’s not a permanent roadblock. Immigration timelines can fluctuate, and new fiscal years often reset opportunities. The key is to stay updated, explore all pathways, and be ready when dates move forward again.
FAQs: May 2025 U.S. Visa Bulletin & EB-5 Delay
What is the new EB-5 cutoff date for India?
May 1, 2019 is the latest cutoff for Indian EB-5 (Unreserved) applicants.
Why is EB-5 delayed for Indian nationals?
Due to high demand, visa limits, and the 7% country cap, EB-5 processing has retrogressed.
Is the EB-1 category still current for Indians?
No, the EB-1 India cutoff remains at February 2, 2022, with no changes this month.
Can I apply for a Green Card if my priority date is after May 1, 2019?
No, only applicants with priority dates earlier than May 1, 2019 can currently proceed.