If you’ve been navigating the U.S. immigration system, you’ve probably heard this word, ‘Retrogression’ more times than you’d like. For EB2 NIW applicants, especially from high-demand countries like India and China, retrogression feels like a frustrating game of “hurry up and wait.” But don’t lose hope—there are ways to manage these delays and keep your green card journey on track.
Beat the delay and accelerate your path to a green card here.
What Is Retrogression?
Retrogression occurs when the demand for visas in a particular category or country exceeds the number available, pushing back priority dates. Think of it like waiting in line at your favorite restaurant, only for them to announce that the kitchen’s running behind. You’re still in line, but your wait just got longer.
For EB2 NIW applicants, this can mean a delay in filing for Adjustment of Status (AOS) or receiving an immigrant visa, even if your I-140 petition has been approved.
Who's Most Affected?
If you’re from India or China, you’re likely no stranger to retrogression. These countries often face the longest delays due to high numbers of applicants in the employment-based categories. But retrogression can impact applicants from other countries too, depending on how the visa caps shift under changing immigration policies.
Tips For Managing Retrogression Delays
Stay Updated on Visa Bulletin Changes:
The U.S. Department of State releases a monthly visa bulletin that shows which priority dates are current. By keeping an eye on these updates, you’ll know exactly where you stand and plan your next moves with confidence. But let’s be real tracking this every month on your own can get overwhelming. That’s why we’ve got your back.
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Consider Premium Processing for I-140:
When Retrogression has you stuck in the waiting room, It’s crucial to control what you can. Enter premium processing for I-140. While it won’t speed up retrogression in itself, it can get your I – 140 petition approved in as little as 15 days, putting you in a prime position once your priority date becomes current. By opting for premium processing, you’re effectively cutting down the time spent waiting for USCIS to act. This gives you a head start on the next steps, like Adjustment Of Status (AOS) or consular processing, ensuring you’re ready to move forward, once your priority date is called.
Not sure if premium processing is right for you? Let us help.
Book a Consultation with us, and take control of your immigration journey.
Make the Most of Concurrent Filing (If Available)
If your priority date is current, you could hit a sweet spot by filing your I-140 and I-485 together—a savvy move known as concurrent filing. This strategy doesn’t just get the ball rolling on your green card; it can also fast-track your work and travel authorization.
Imagine having the freedom to work and travel while your green card is still in the works. Sounds great, right? Concurrent filing lets you do just that, giving you peace of mind and flexibility while USCIS processes your case.
Stay ready to seize this opportunity when the timing is right—you’ll thank yourself later!
Think Outside the EB2 Box: Explore Alternative Visa Options
Sometimes, the fastest path to your green card isn’t the one you initially planned. Depending on your circumstances, exploring other visa categories—like EB1 for extraordinary abilities or family-sponsored visas—could be a smart move. These categories often have shorter wait times, and if you qualify, they might just get you across the finish line faster.
Think of it as having multiple routes on your GPS. When one road is clogged with traffic (hello, retrogression!), taking a detour could save you time and stress. Stay open to all possibilities, and don’t hesitate to explore options that align with your unique situation.
Policy Shifts: Adapt and Thrive
When administrations lean toward stricter immigration policies, the visa backlog can swell, and new hurdles might appear. But don’t let that discourage you—tightened policies don’t slam the door shut; they just make the path more complex.
The key? Stay ahead of the game. By staying informed and partnering with experienced immigration consultants like My Green Card Story, you’ll have the tools and strategies to navigate these changes smoothly. A proactive approach ensures you’re ready to adapt and keep your journey on track, no matter how the winds of policy shift.
Conclusion
Retrogression might slow down your green card journey, but it doesn’t have to stop you. With the right strategies and support, you can stay ahead of the game and be ready when your priority date becomes current.
Need help navigating retrogression? Contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your situation.
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