The U.S. Department of State has officially released the Visa Bulletin for March 2025, providing the latest updates on visa availability for family-sponsored and employment-based immigrant categories. If you’re waiting for your green card, this bulletin is your go-to guide to understanding when you may proceed with your case.
Each month, the visa bulletin determines when applicants can submit their paperwork and when they might receive final approval. For many, the waiting times can be long and unpredictable. That’s why staying updated is crucial!
US Visa Bulletin for March 2025
| Category | March 2025 Updates |
|---|---|
| Family-Based Visas | Final Action Dates updated; backlog persists for certain countries. |
| Employment-Based Visas | Retrogression in some categories, particularly EB-4. |
| Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery | 52,000 visas available; cut-off dates announced. |
| Processing Timeline | Varies by category and country of chargeability. |
| Official Visa Bulletin | U.S. Department of State |
The Visa Bulletin for March 2025 brings new updates that will impact thousands of family-sponsored, employment-based, and DV lottery applicants. With backlogs persisting in many categories, staying informed and proactive is the best way to navigate the immigration process.
Check the official Visa Bulletin to track your priority date and take the next steps in your journey toward U.S. permanent residency.
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What is the US Visa Bulletin for March 2025?
The Visa Bulletin is a monthly publication by the U.S. Department of State that dictates when eligible applicants can proceed with the green card process. It contains two key sections:
- Final Action Dates – Indicates when green cards can be issued.
- Dates for Filing – Specifies when applicants can submit paperwork.
These dates change based on demand, visa limits, and backlogs.
US Visa Bulletin for March 2025: Family-Based Visa Categories
Family-sponsored visas are divided into preference categories, with some experiencing significant wait times.
Final Action Dates for March 2025 – Family-Based
The priority dates for family-sponsored green cards continue to face delays. The movement of these dates varies by country, with applicants from India, Mexico, and the Philippines experiencing longer wait times.
| Family-Sponsored Category | Visa Availability (March 2025) |
|---|---|
| F1 (Unmarried Sons & Daughters of U.S. Citizens) | Delayed for most countries. |
| F2A (Spouses & Children of Green Card Holders) | Current (no backlog). |
| F2B (Unmarried Sons & Daughters of Green Card Holders) | Moderate backlog. |
| F3 (Married Sons & Daughters of U.S. Citizens) | Significant wait times. |
| F4 (Siblings of U.S. Citizens) | Substantial backlog for India & Mexico. |
What This Means for You
If your priority date falls before the listed cut-off date, you may be eligible to proceed with your visa processing. Those in F2A (spouses & children of green card holders) benefit the most, as this category remains current.
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US Visa Bulletin for March 2025: Employment-Based Visa Categories
Employment-based visas are assigned to individuals based on their profession, qualifications, and employer sponsorship.
Final Action Dates for March 2025 – Employment-Based
Due to high demand, some employment-based categories are experiencing retrogression, meaning that previously available visa numbers have been pushed back.
| Employment-Based Category | Visa Availability (March 2025) |
|---|---|
| EB-1 (Priority Workers) | Current for most countries. |
| EB-2 (Advanced Degree Professionals) | Limited availability; backlogs for India & China. |
| EB-3 (Skilled Workers & Professionals) | Some movement but still backlogged. |
| EB-4 (Special Immigrants – Religious Workers, etc.) | Retrogressed; may become unavailable. |
| EB-5 (Investor Visa) | Available for select investors. |
Impact of EB-4 Retrogression
The EB-4 category, which includes religious workers, broadcasters, and certain other special immigrants, has been significantly affected by retrogression. There is a possibility of this category becoming unavailable if demand remains high.
US Visa Bulletin for March 2025: Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery for 2025
The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery is an annual program that awards green cards to individuals from underrepresented countries. For 2025, the visa cap is 52,000.
| Region | Visa Cut-Off Rank (March 2025) |
|---|---|
| Africa | 25,000 (Excludes Egypt, Morocco, Algeria) |
| Asia | 10,500 |
| Europe | 14,000 |
| Oceania | 1,200 |
| South America | 2,500 |
Key Considerations for DV Applicants
- DV-2025 applicants must obtain their visas by September 30, 2025.
- Visa numbers may run out before the deadline.
- Selected applicants should submit their forms early to avoid missing their chance.
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US Visa Bulletin for March 2025: How to Check Your Visa Bulletin Status
If you’re wondering whether you can move forward with your green card process, follow these steps:
- Find Your Priority Date – This is listed on your I-130 (family-based) or I-140 (employment-based) petition.
- Check the Visa Bulletin – Visit the official site: travel.state.gov.
- Compare Your Priority Date – If your priority date is before the listed date, you may proceed.
- Prepare Your Documentation – Gather necessary paperwork and be ready to file.
US Visa Bulletin for March 2025 (FAQs)
What is the difference between Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing?
Final Action Dates show when a green card can be issued.
Dates for Filing indicate when applicants can submit their paperwork.
Why do some visa categories have backlogs?
Backlogs happen when demand exceeds the annual visa limit, leading to delays.
How often does the visa bulletin update?
The Visa Bulletin is updated monthly by the U.S. Department of State.
What happens if my priority date becomes current?
Once your priority date is current, you can file for adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or proceed with consular processing (if abroad).
How can I speed up my visa processing?
Ensure all documents are submitted correctly and promptly.
Explore expedited processing options if eligible.
Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance.
