US Green Card Queue Update: August 2025 Visa Bulletin Brings Mixed News for Skilled Workers

The August 2025 Visa Bulletin, released by the U.S. Department of State, has brought fresh updates for professionals and skilled workers around the world seeking permanent residency in the United States. While some groups have seen small progress, others now face longer waits due to visa retrogression.

EB-2 Category Faces Setbacks for Most Countries

The EB-2 category, designed for applicants with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities, has retrogressed for several countries, including Mexico, the Philippines, and most others classified as “Rest of the World.” The new cut-off date is now September 1, 2023, moved back from October 15, 2023.

This means that if your priority date (the date your green card process began) falls after September 1, 2023, your application may be delayed.

For Indian and Chinese nationals, there is no change. EB-2 India remains stuck at January 1, 2013, and EB-2 China holds at December 15, 2020, highlighting the continued backlog from these high-demand regions.

A Small Step Forward for Indian EB-3 Applicants

There is a small ray of hope in the EB-3 category, which covers skilled workers and professionals. India’s cut-off date has moved forward by one month, from April 22 to May 22, 2013. For many in the backlog, even this modest progress is encouraging.

However, applicants from other countries — including Mexico, the Philippines, China, and most others — will see no forward movement in EB-3 this month.

Why This Matters Globally

These changes reflect the high demand for U.S. green cards among skilled professionals worldwide. The U.S. issues a limited number of employment-based green cards each year, and as the fiscal year (ending September 30) nears its close, the system tightens.

What Happens Next?

The next major update is expected in September, which may bring further retrogression or temporary unavailability in certain categories. A new visa cycle will begin in October 2025, potentially resetting some of the backlogs — but no guarantees.