For many individuals seeking a Green Card through family-based or employment-based preference categories, the monthly Visa Bulletin published by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) is the definitive guide to immigrant visa availability. It determines when you can move forward with your application. However, reading the Visa Bulletin can be a source of confusion, especially when trying to differentiate between its two primary components: the “Final Action Dates” chart and the “Dates for Filing Applications” chart.

As we progress through 2025, understanding which chart to use for your specific immigration application (e.g., when to file I-485 2025 for adjustment of status) is critical. This step-by-step tutorial will explain the difference between these two vital charts and help you interpret the dates to determine your eligibility to apply for or receive a Green Card.

Why Do We Have Two Charts? A Brief History

The two-chart system was introduced in October 2015 to provide more predictability for applicants. The idea was to allow some individuals to file their Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) applications sooner, even if an immigrant visa number wasn’t immediately “final action” available. This allowed them to potentially obtain benefits like employment authorization (EAD) and advance parole while waiting for their priority date to become fully current.

Each month, USCIS, in coordination with the DOS, announces which chart (Final Action Dates or Dates for Filing) should be used for filing adjustment of status applications within the U.S. For consular processing abroad, the National Visa Center (NVC) generally uses the Dates for Filing chart to notify applicants when to submit required documents.

Decoding the “Visa Bulletin Charts Explained 2025”

Let’s break down each chart:

1. Application Final Action Dates (Chart A)

• What it means: This chart shows the dates when immigrant visas may finally be issued. Your priority date must be current (or earlier than the date listed) on this chart for your Green Card application to be approved.
• When it’s used:
  • Consular Processing: When the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad can schedule your final immigrant visa interview and potentially issue the visa.
  • Adjustment of Status (within the U.S.): When USCIS can make a final decision on your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Your priority date must be current on this chart at the time of final adjudication.
  • Filing I-485: You must use this chart to determine when to file I-485 2025 if USCIS states on its “Visa Bulletin Info” page that applicants must use the Final Action Dates chart for that month.

2. Dates for Filing Applications (Chart B)

• What it means: This chart shows the earliest dates when applicants may be able to file their immigrant visa applications (either Form I-485 for adjustment of status or begin processing with the NVC for consular processing). Your priority date must be current (or earlier than the date listed) on this chart to be eligible to file.
• When it’s used:
  • Adjustment of Status (within the U.S.): You may use this chart to determine when to file I-485 2025 if USCIS states on its “Visa Bulletin Info” page that applicants may use the Dates for Filing chart for that month. This is key, as it allows for earlier filing in many cases.
  • Consular Processing: The National Visa Center (NVC) typically uses this chart to determine when to instruct immigrant visa applicants to submit their required documents and fees.

“Final Action Dates vs Dates for Filing”: Which Chart You Should Use

This is the most critical question, and the answer is updated monthly by USCIS.

1. For Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) Filings within the U.S.:

   • Always check the USCIS website: Each month, after the Department of State releases the Visa Bulletin, USCIS publishes its own “Adjustment of Status Filing Charts from the Visa Bulletin” page (often found under “Visa Availability & Priority Dates”).
   • USCIS will explicitly state which chart to use:
     • “For Family-Sponsored preference categories, applicants must use the [Final Action Dates / Dates for Filing] chart in the Department of State Visa Bulletin for [Current Month and Year].”
     • “For Employment-Based preference categories, applicants must use the [Final Action Dates / Dates for Filing] chart in the Department of State Visa Bulletin for [Current Month and Year].”
   • Example for July 2025: As of mid-June 2025, for July 2025, USCIS has confirmed that it will use the Final Action Dates chart for Employment-Based adjustment of status applications, but will use the Dates for Filing chart for Family-Based adjustment of status applications. This means your eligibility to file depends on your category!

2. For Consular Processing (Immigrant Visa Applications Abroad):

   • The DOS’s Visa Bulletin itself typically indicates when the NVC will begin processing applications based on the “Dates for Filing” chart. Your U.S. Embassy or Consulate will then use the “Final Action Dates” chart to schedule your interview and issue the visa.

Key Concepts to Remember for “Immigrant Visa Availability”

• Priority Date: This is generally the date your immigrant visa petition (e.g., Form I-130, I-140) was properly filed with USCIS or the date your labor certification was accepted for processing. It’s your place in line.
• “C” (Current): If you see a “C” in a category and country, it means immigrant visas are immediately available for all eligible applicants in that category, regardless of their priority date.
• Retrogression: When a cut-off date moves backward in time. This happens when demand for visas exceeds the supply for a particular category or country.
• Forward Movement: When a cut-off date advances, meaning more priority dates become current.
• “U” (Unauthorized): Means immigrant visa numbers are not authorized for issuance in that category.

Navigating the Visa Bulletin with Confidence in 2025

Understanding the Visa Bulletin charts explained 2025 is essential for effective immigration planning. Whether you’re determining when to file I-485 2025 or just tracking your position in the queue, knowing which chart applies to you and how to read it correctly will save you time and potential frustration.

Given the complexities and monthly fluctuations, especially for oversubscribed categories from countries like India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines, professional guidance is invaluable. The experienced immigration attorneys at LforLaw are experts in interpreting the Visa Bulletin and strategizing the best approach for your specific case. We can help you understand your immigrant visa availability, plan your next steps, and ensure your application is submitted at the earliest possible opportunity.

Don’t let the intricacies of the Visa Bulletin slow down your immigration journey. Contact LforLaw today for a consultation.