The U.S. State Department published August 2026 visa bulletin on July 21, 2026.

A majority family preference visa categories experienced a shift forward in applicant date thresholds, shortening delays for relatives waiting abroad.

Employment-based visas became more restrictive, with India’s EB-1 category reaching its limit after slipping back in date rankings.

EB-2 and EB-3 India cutoff dates reflected no immediate change, but could adjust in future updates.

EB-5 rules are unchanged for now, requiring no revisions from applicants.

Filing deadlines and visa availability differ by country, requiring individual assessment.