The October 2026 Visa Bulletin brings important updates for people waiting for employment-based and family-based green cards in the United States. Published by the U.S. Department of State, the October bulletin marks the beginning of fiscal year 2027 and provides updated priority dates for several immigrant visa categories.
For applicants searching for October 2026 Visa Bulletin changes, one of the biggest points to understand is the difference between Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing. These dates determine when an applicant may be able to move forward with the green card process.
USCIS Visa Bulletin October 2026 Updates
The USCIS Visa Bulletin October 2026 information is especially important for employment-based adjustment of status applicants. For October, USCIS is accepting employment-based adjustment applications using the Dates for Filing chart. Applicants generally need a priority date earlier than the applicable date listed for their category and country.
This means eligible applicants may have an opportunity to prepare and submit their adjustment of status applications during October, provided they meet all other requirements.
October 2026 Visa Bulletin India Dates
The October 2026 Visa Bulletin India dates remain a major search topic because India has significant employment-based backlogs.
For India, the October Dates for Filing chart lists EB-1 at July 1, 2024, EB-2 at January 15, 2015, and EB-3 at January 15, 2015. The Final Action Dates are different, with EB-1 at February 1, 2023, EB-2 at November 1, 2013, and EB-3 at January 1, 2014.
EB-2 India October 2026
The EB-2 India October 2026 update is particularly important. The October bulletin shows an EB-2 India Final Action Date of November 1, 2013, while the Dates for Filing date is January 15, 2015. Applicants should check which chart USCIS has authorized before taking action on an adjustment of status filing.
EB-3 India October 2026
For EB-3 India October 2026, the Final Action Date is January 1, 2014, while the Dates for Filing date is January 15, 2015. Applicants should compare their own priority date with the appropriate chart rather than relying only on general predictions about future Visa Bulletin movement.
EB-1 India October 2026
The EB-1 India October 2026 Final Action Date is February 1, 2023. The Dates for Filing chart moves further ahead to July 1, 2024. This difference makes it important for applicants to understand whether they are checking filing eligibility or final approval availability.
Final Action Dates vs. Dates for Filing
The October 2026 Visa Bulletin Final Action Dates chart indicates when immigrant visa numbers can be authorized for qualified applicants. The Dates for Filing chart can allow eligible applicants to begin submitting required documentation earlier, depending on the rules applicable to their case.
Because immigration rules and filing charts can change, applicants should always verify the latest information directly with USCIS and the U.S. Department of State before submitting an application.
What Applicants Should Do Now
People following the October 2026 green card priority dates should first locate their priority date, employment category and country of chargeability. They can then compare those details with the latest Visa Bulletin.
The October changes create new filing opportunities for some applicants, but eligibility depends on individual circumstances. Checking official government information and obtaining professional legal advice when necessary can help applicants avoid mistakes.
Important: Visa Bulletin dates can change from month to month. This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice.
