The EB-2 visa category is intended for people of exceptional ability, including professionals who hold advanced degrees. This visa category allows professionals and talented individuals from all over the world to travel to the US to work. This visa category also allows the US economy to benefit from the talents and the knowledge of professionals from all over the world. Like most visa applicants, however, EB-2 visa applicants must wait until a visa number is available in order to get their visa. In some cases, the process takes some time.
The Department of State has recently announced the cut-off date for EB-2 for Mexico, the Philippines, and worldwide. The cut-off date is current and has been regressed to January 1, 2009.
If an applicant’s priority date is earlier than the cut-off date, a visa number is available for the applicant. A visa number is also available if the category in which the applicant has applied is listed as “C” for current. If you have applied for an EB-2 and the Department of State cut-off date announcement means that your priority date is earlier than the cut-off date, you will likely want to file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). You will need to file this form in the same month that a visa number is available for you. To learn more about cut-off dates and visa availability, visit the Department of State Visa Retrogression webpage.
If the Department of State announcement means that a visa number is available for you, you will need to file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) correctly, with all needed documentation. You will also likely need to file Form I-693 (Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status). It is important to file these forms promptly and correctly, with all the documentation and evidence listed in the form instructions. According to the USCIS, any mistakes can lead to delays in the processing of the form as well as requests for additional information.