The October 2025 USCIS I-485 pending inventory for EB-1 India was published on Nov 12, 2025, offering a clear picture of the current wait times. Last year, the Date of Filing (DOF) for EB-1 India advanced significantly—almost a full year jump—leading many to expect faster approvals. However, there’s an important detail to remember: You cannot receive your green card until your Final Action Date (FAD) becomes current. For EB-1 India, the FAD is still progressing slowly. What really determines the movement? It’s all about how many people are ahead of you in the EB-1 India queue. Number of People Waiting in EB-1 India (Pending I-485 by Month) This dataset includes only those who have already filed I-485 applications. It does not account for individuals with approved I-140s who haven’t filed yet, so the actual demand is even higher. Here are the official counts of EB-1 India applicants (year 2022) waiting for a green card as of October 2, 2025 data: Year 2022 Pending EB-1 India I-485 March 332 April 986 May 736 June 870 July 759 August 818 September 981 October 1,046 November 1,071 December 2,297 From April to December, year 2022, each month has between 700 and 2,300 people waiting. This long queue is the main reason for the slow movement of the Final Action Date. What Does This Mean for Final Action Date Movement? USCIS and DOS can only advance the Final Action Date if there are enough unused visa numbers. Let’s estimate annual visa availability and its impact on EB-1 India. EB-1 India Annual Green Card Quota (Approximate) In a typical year: Total EB-1 quota: 40,040 visas India’s maximum share: 7% (unless there are spillovers) Approximate visas for EB-1 India: ~2,800 For FY2025, early indications suggest India may receive around 3,000 visas (a typical year with minor spillovers). How Many EB-1 India Applicants Have Already Received Green Cards? With the Final Action Date moved to March, the following have likely been cleared: March pending: 332 Some approved Consular Processing cases Duplicates that drop out Some movement within January and February filers A safe estimate is that about 1,000 EB-1 India approvals have already been issued this fiscal year. If the quota is around 3,000, that leaves roughly 2,000 visas remaining for EB-1 India this fiscal year. This is the key number for predicting future Final Action Date movement. How Far Can the Final Action Date Move? Let’s total the number of people waiting after March: Year 2022 People Cumulative April 986 986 May 736 1,722 June 870 2,592 July 759 3,351 August 818 4,169 September 981 5,150 October 1,046 6,196 November 1,071 7,267 December 2,297 9,564 With about 2,000 visas left, movement will likely stop somewhere in April or May (since April and May together total 1,722 applicants). June alone has 870, which is too many to clear. Predicted Final Action Date Movement for EB-1 India: Low estimate: Up to April 2022 Moderate estimate: Up to May 2022 High (optimistic): Slight movement into June 2022, but this is unlikely Any movement beyond this would require additional spillover visas, which are not expected early in FY2025.

If you’re planning to file any immigration paperwork soon, you need to read this — USCIS announced another round of fee increases this week. Don’t panic — these are not the massive hikes we saw in 2024. These are smaller, automatic inflation adjustments tied to the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1) passed earlier in 2025. H.R. is a standard abbreviation that stands for House of Representatives. H.R. 1 is the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (also called the "Big Beautiful Bill" or OBBBA), a massive reconciliation package signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025. It includes tax cuts (e.g., extending 2017 rates, new deductions for overtime pay up to $12,500 and tips), spending reforms, defense boosts, and immigration-related provisions—like mandating annual inflation adjustments to certain USCIS fees under the " One Big Beautiful Bill Act " (H.R. 1) to fund operations without full taxpayer reliance. Here's all the information you need, complete with official links and tables for easy comprehension. When Do the New Fees Start? The fees announced in this notice are effective on or after January 1, 2026. Any immigration benefit request postmarked on or after January 1, 2026 without the proper filing fee will be rejected. → Any application postmarked or submitted online on or after January 1, 2026 will pay the higher amount. → File before midnight December 31, 2025 → you lock in the current (lower) fees. Official USCIS Sources USCIS Official Alert (Nov 19, 2025) Full Federal Register Notice (Nov 21, 2025) USCIS Fee Calculator (always up-to-date for every form, check new fees after Jan 1, 2026) Fees That Are Increasing (Effective Jan. 1, 2026) These are the H.R. 1 fees getting a bump due to inflation. Note: The Annual Asylum Application Fee is currently stayed by court order, so you might not pay it right now—but if the stay lifts, it'll jump to $102. Form Type Previous Fee New Fee Increase Annual Asylum Application Fee (currently stayed via court order) $100 $102 +$2 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Initial Asylum Applicant Employment Authorization Document (EAD) $550 $560 +$10 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Initial Parole EAD $550 $560 +$10 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Renewal or Extension of Parole EAD $275 $280 +$5 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Initial Temporary Protected Status (TPS) EAD $550 $560 +$10 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Renewal or Extension of TPS EAD $275 $280 +$5 Form I-131, Part 9 - EAD requested upon authorization of a new period of Parole (Re-parole) $275 $280 +$5 Form I-821, Application for TPS $500 $510 +$10 Fees That Are NOT Increasing (For Now) These stay frozen at current levels. Heads up: DHS plans a separate Federal Register notice soon for the immigration parole fee adjustment—stay tuned. Form Type Previous Fee New Fee Change I-589 Asylum Fee (Initial fee for aliens filing an application for asylum) $100 $100 $0 I-765 Renewal or Extension of Asylum Applicant EAD $275 $275 $0 I-360 Special Immigrant Juvenile Fee $250 $250 $0 What Did NOT Increase This Time? H-1B petition (I-129) → still $780 H-1B registration fee → still $215 I-485 Adjustment of Status → still $1,440 N-400 Naturalization → still $710 online/ $760paper Premium Processing (15-day) → still $2,805 The controversial $100,000 “Presidential H-1B fee” → unchanged These increases are small (2.7% average, based on CPI-U inflation from July 2024–July 2025), but every dollar counts when you’re already paying thousands in legal and filing fees. Save the official USCIS Fee Calculator link here (note that it may not display updated fees until they are effective): https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees Have a specific form you’re worried about? Drop it in the comments and I’ll tell you the exact current vs. future fee.

Waiting for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can be stressful — especially when processing times vary between applicants and centers. To make things easier, this page compiles real I-765 approval timelines along with the latest official USCIS data from the Service Center Operations Directorate (SCOPS) and the National Benefits Center (NBC). By combining real-world case durations with USCIS-published benchmarks, you can better estimate when your own application might be approved. Real-World Approved I-765 Cases These are recently approved I-765 applications submitted by users who have shared their actual case timelines. They represent the most realistic picture of current processing durations — often more reflective of on-ground trends than published averages. After reviewing these numbers, you may notice that some service centers complete cases faster for specific categories, while others show slight delays. These differences can stem from workload distribution, staffing, or case-type prioritization. If you have recently submitted Form I-765, you can use the processing time app to find more detailed information about when your case might be approved or when other cases are being approved. SCOPS Processing Times The Service Center Operations Directorate (SCOPS) manages the major USCIS service centers across the United States — including those responsible for adjudicating employment authorization requests like Form I-765. SCOPS regularly publishes official data showing how long it takes to process different case types, expressed as the time it takes to complete 80 % and 100 % of applications. This information helps applicants gauge where their case stands within the national averages. While these numbers come directly from USCIS, remember they are benchmarks rather than exact forecasts. Individual cases can still move faster or slower depending on background checks, workload, or whether a Request for Evidence (RFE) is issued. Comparing these results with the real-case data above gives a balanced view of what applicants are experiencing versus official expectations. NBC (National Benefits Center) Processing Times The National Benefits Center (NBC) handles a significant portion of I-765 applications — especially those linked to adjustment-of-status (AOS) and family-based immigration categories. Next: How to expedite EAD? Related Posts ✔ Contacting congressman for expedited request ✔  Current green card priority date for India ✔  How to apply for H4 EAD? ✔  H4 and EAD concurrent filing Related Topics

Steps to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa for parents (India) while on a J1, L1, F1, H1 visa, or green card with a documents checklist, and an end-to-end US visitor visa application process. When I applied for my parents' US visitor visa for the first time, I was on a J1 visa. I went through the US visa application process and successfully obtained their US visitor visa. After that, I helped my family and relatives apply for a US visitor visa. In these cases, the sponsoring party held either an F1 visa, an L1 visa, an H1 visa, or a green card. My experience has given me valuable knowledge about the entire process of obtaining a US visitor visa, from beginning to end. I am eager to share the step-by-step process for applying for a US visitor visa for parents. If you haven't read my previous post on B1/B2 visitor visas, you can begin here to catch up. Once your parents get a B1/B2 visitor visa they can typically stay in the USA for up to 6 months (in most cases) in a single stretch. I have explained the B2 visa length of stay in detail earlier, and I have provided the link if you want to read about it. Usually, a US visitor visa is granted for 10 years, but in some cases, it may be issued for a shorter duration like 1 year; this varies on a case-by-case basis. So, don't assume a US visitor visa is always approved, I have seen multiple cases of B1/B2 visa rejections. Roughly 3-5% of B1/B2 tourist visas from India are rejected. Table of Contents: B2 visa documents checklist for parents Fill DS-160 form online Schedule a US visa appointment (India) US visa fee payment B1/B2 visa appointment On the day of the US visa appointment B2 visa documents checklist B1/B2 visa status check Fill DS-160 Form Online The first step is to fill out the DS-160 form online. Click on this link , which will take you to the USCIS website. Select your country, enter the code (captcha), and start your DS-160 application process. When you start your DS-160 application, an application ID will be generated for your case. You will be asked to fill out all the information. The entire DS-160 application process typically takes around 1-2 hours if you have all the required details at hand. You should save your DS-160 application at each step and retrieve your application later by using your application number. Keep saving your progress otherwise your information will be lost and you might have to rework. The details you would need to fill out in the applications are name, address, passport details, travel details, contact information, family information, work, education details, etc. At the end of the DS-160 form, if you are filling out this form for your parents then you can add your information in the preparer section. If your parents have filled out the form themselves, then they should add their details. Once the DS-160 form is completed, you can submit it. No changes can be made after submission so make sure all the information is correct. You would need to fill out separate DS-160 forms if you are planning to apply for both parents' visas (mother & father). DS-160 Confirmation Page After submission, the DS-160 confirmation page will be generated, please save this PDF since you need it for the interview later. While it's possible to print or save the entire application form for future reference, keep in mind that you only need the DS-160 confirmation page for the interview (and not the whole application). The confirmation form will have a barcode and your DS-160 application number. This page is important and you need to take this confirmation page to the visa office. I have provided a sample above for your reference. Schedule a US Visa Appointment (India) Next step, You need to schedule an appointment for the US visa interview and biometrics here . Choose the alphabet with which your country starts. In my case it was India, you can click the link here for India. Choose a non-immigrant visa and then click on login, at the end, you will be taken here . You need to register here and a login will be created. Once you log in you can choose the place where you would like the interview to happen. If you are applying from India, the appointment will be available in New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata. You can choose the location that is convenient for your parents. Current B1/B2 visa appointment wait times for these locations are shown below. You can also choose the language in which you need the interview. For example, if your parents are not comfortable in English you can choose Hindi or any other language as well. US Visa Fee Payment After that, you can fill out the other information and at the end, it will ask you to pay the MRV fee for booking the appointment, which is $185 (per person), as of Jun 2024. You will be paying in Indian rupees. There will be several ways to make the payment like NEFT, UPI, debit/credit card, or cash over the counter at these locations . I always use the NEFT method where you have to transfer the MRV fee to the account number provided. However, please note that fees might change in the future. Feel free to comment with the current MRV fee you have paid recently, and help other readers. Typically, I add my mother's name in the same login that I created for my father so I had to pay a total fee for 2 people. So, you do not need two accounts to make the payment, you can add your parents as a family in the same account and book visa interview appointments. B1/B2 Visa Appointment Once you make the payment a receipt number will be generated. Using that receipt number you can move forward to make a B1/B2 visa appointment for biometrics and interviews by logging back in here . You need to make two appointments which will happen on different days at different locations. Once you log in, it will ask you to make an appointment. The first appointment will be given for Biometrics and the second date will be booked for the interview. Related: Why does a B1/B2 visa get denied? The first appointment to give biometrics is usually at the Visa Application Center (VAC) or Offsite Facility Center (OFC). Second appointment for the visa interview at the US consulate. Usually, a VAC appointment should be done a few days before the interview date. Tip: You can reschedule the appointment up to four times; after that, rescheduling will not be available for you. On the Day of the US Visa Appointment Go to the VAC appointment where biometrics and pictures will be taken for you. Then attend the visa interview, where you will be interviewed by a US consular officer. They can ask you anything related to your application, your job, your plan of traveling, and the details of your child/relative living in the US who is sponsoring your trip, etc. I explained all the B1/B2 visa interview questions in the previous blog. You should go through it once. At both places make sure to take all the supporting documents applicable to your case since they can ask you for this. At the end of the interview, they will keep your original passport to issue the visa. B2 Visa Documents Checklist for Parents List of supporting documents of sponsor like J1, L1, F1 or H1B visa holders for B2 visa application The last 3 months of pay stubs Bank statement for proof of funds Employment verification letter Copy of passport and visa pages Copy of latest I-94 I-129S approved letter (for L1) or DS2019 (for J1) or I-797A (for H1B) or Copy of green card Invitation letter Sponsorship letter B2 visa documents I asked my parents to bring in Original passport Employment letter (In case parents are working) Bank statement with sufficient balance (parent’s) Aadhar card (I have asked my parents to take all the useful IDs they can bring in) DS-160 confirmation page Appointment confirmation page B1/B2 Visa Status Check You can check the status of your US visitor visa here . Hopefully, you find this blog helpful. Please drop me a line in the comments section below if you have any queries. I have added a few more topics below which will help you. B1 B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents B2 visa interview questions for parents visiting the US. Consulate officers might ask you questions about five main topics. These questions will be about the same thing but phrased differently to understand your reason for traveling. These five topics are: Travel Purpose: Why are you traveling to the US? Who do you plan to visit, and what activities do you intend to do during your stay? For instance, if your trip is for tourism, you can mention the places you'd like to visit. Duration of Stay: How long do you intend to stay in the US? You can simply explain that you plan to spend time with your family in the US and then return. Accommodation: Where will you be staying during your visit to the US? Simply tell me you will be staying with your son or daughter in so and so city. If you can remember their city or complete address, it's good. Financial Situation: Who is funding your trip, and do you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses? Can you provide evidence of your financial stability? Are you currently employed? These questions help them ensure that you have the financial stability to visit the US. Travel History: Have you previously visited the US or any other countries? Do you have a history of international travel? Make sure to give truthful answers to these questions. If you can't remember something, it's okay to tell the officer you don't know. For instance, if you can't remember where your son works or his complete address, it's alright to say so. You can read about the B1/B2 visa interview questions in detail in the link provided above. But it's a good idea to have this information with you if you can. Having a copy of the invitation letter can also be helpful in these situations because the invitation letter will contain this type of information, which you can then show to the officer. I have provided the link below if you have missed it. FAQs on US Visa for Parents from India Can I fill out DS 160 for my parents? Yes, you can fill out DS 160 for your parents. I have done it several times and obtained their US visitor visa successfully. How to apply B1/B2 tourist visa for parents? To apply for a B1/B2 visa for your parents (visitor visas for business and tourism), you'll need to follow these 8 steps: Complete the DS-160 form online Pay the visa fee Schedule the visa appointment Gather the required documents Go through biometrics Attend visa interview Wait for visa approval Travel to the U.S. Should I buy health insurance for my parents before their US visit? Buying health insurance is not mandatory for US visits, but I always purchase it when my parents visit because medical expenses in the US are very high. If your parents have some health issues, it's worth considering. I usually purchase health insurance from VisitorsCoverage , as it offers good coverage and peace of mind during my parent's stay. What can I not do on a B1/B2 visa? You won't have the ability to work, pursue studies, establish permanent residency, acquire a driver's license, or enroll a child in school. How to retrieve the DS-160 form after submission? Visit the CEAC website Choose your location and enter the captcha Select "Retrieve an Application" Enter your DS-160 confirmation number Complete the security questions Retrieve your application Should I select B1/B2 or B2 for parents? Choose the B1/B2 visa, even if you're going for business or tourism. Typically B1/B2 visa is issued for 10 years, so you can use it whenever you need to visit the US for either reason. In addition, selecting B1/B2 can save you from extra questions at the entry point. Sometimes, even if you pick B1 or B2, the consulate might give you a B1/B2 visa. Can I sponsor my parents to visit the USA? You can sponsor parents to visit the USA on a B2 visa. However, sponsorship is not a mandatory criterion to apply for a US tourist visa. How can I bring my parents from India to the USA? You can bring your parents from India to the USA in the following ways: They can come on a US tourist visa, usually allowing a 6-month stay in one go. If you want them to permanently live in the USA, you must apply for their green card. To do this, you need to be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. Read more . How to apply for a B2 visa for parents of green card holders? To apply for the B2 visa for the parents of a green card holder, the process is pretty much the same: Complete the DS-160 form Pay the B2 visa application fee Schedule the visa interview Prepare required documents Attend the visa interview Visa issuance and travel Next: B1/B2 Interview Questions Related Posts ✔ Giving birth on a B1/B1 tourist visa ✔ Knowing about US culture before you visit ✔ B1/B2 visa extension after 6 months ✔ How to renew an Indian passport for parents Related Topics

If you’re an H1B visa holder living in the U.S. and your parents are visiting on a B1/B2 tourist visa , taking them on a Carnival Cruise from the USA to Mexico is one of the easiest and most enjoyable vacations you can plan. The best part? No extra visas are needed — your parents’ valid U.S. tourist visa works perfectly, and as long as your H1B visa is still valid, you’re good to go too. This guide is especially written for H1B visa holders living in the U.S. and parents visiting on B1/B2 visas, explaining how to plan an international cruise without worrying about additional visa paperwork. This blog is based on my personal experience taking the Carnival Cruise from Long Beach, California to Ensenada, Mexico, a 3–4 day round trip that’s relaxing, family-friendly, and completely hassle-free. Other major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean or Norwegian, generally follow similar visa requirements. When my parents visited, this trip turned out to be the perfect family getaway. The food onboard was excellent — and to our surprise, they even had authentic Indian dishes prepared by Indian chefs, which made my parents feel right at home. For kids , there are plenty of fun activities and even daycare facilities, so you can enjoy your vacation while they’re happily occupied. The hospitality on Carnival is truly outstanding. Every crew member — from room attendants and chefs to bartenders and photographers — goes out of their way to make the trip special. In terms of cost , expect to spend around $500–$1000 per person, depending on your room type and booking time. Interior staterooms are the most affordable, while ocean-view and balcony rooms offer stunning sea views worth the upgrade. Since all meals are included, you can indulge freely without worrying about extra charges. Overall, this short international trip is a great vacation idea for H1B families and visiting parents — a smooth, safe, and memorable way to travel outside the U.S. without visa stress, while enjoying great food, comfortable rooms, and world-class service. 🛳️ Booking Your Carnival Cruise (for H1B & B1/B2 Visa Holders) Booking a Carnival Cruise from the USA to Mexico is simple and quick. You can reserve your trip directly through the official Carnival Cruise Line website or use popular travel booking sites. From experience, booking directly with Carnival is usually easier — it gives you access to special deals, loyalty points, and faster customer support. Once you select your cruise dates, you’ll be able to choose from three main cabin types ( see all ) depending on your budget and comfort level: 1. Interior Rooms (~170 sq. ft.) 💡 Best for budget travelers. These are the most affordable cabins but don’t have windows. If you’re planning to spend most of your time enjoying the ship’s activities and just need a cozy place to sleep, this option works perfectly. 2. Ocean View Rooms (~220 sq. ft.) 💡 Great value for comfort. A step up in price, these rooms come with a small window offering beautiful sea views. It’s a nice balance between cost and comfort, especially for short 3–4 day cruises. 3. Balcony Rooms (~185 + 35 sq. ft. balcony) 💡 Ideal for families and parents. The balcony cabins offer the best experience — you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze right from your room, sip morning tea or coffee, and watch the endless ocean waves. For H1B visa holders traveling with parents on B1/B2 visas, this is a wonderful upgrade that adds relaxation and comfort for older travelers. The price for the Long Beach to Ensenada Carnival Cruise usually ranges from $250 to $1000 per person, depending on your cabin type, season, and booking time. The great news is that all meals are included, so you can enjoy unlimited food without worrying about extra dining costs. To get the best deals, try booking 3–4 months in advance. Weather-wise, the ideal time for a Mexico cruise is around late September to late March, when temperatures hover around 22–25°C (71–77°F) — warm but not too hot. Avoid the peak summer months and school holiday periods, as prices are higher and the ships tend to be more crowded. If you’re traveling with your parents, a balcony cabin is absolutely worth it. It offers quiet mornings, sea views, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes the whole trip even more memorable. ⚓ Pro Tip: Best Cabin Location to Avoid Motion Sickness If you or your parents are prone to motion sickness, choose a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck. This area experiences the least movement since it’s closest to the ship’s center of gravity. Avoid cabins at the very front (bow) or back (stern), as those areas feel more rocking during waves. Mid-deck cabins also make it easier to access dining areas and entertainment zones without long walks. 🚫 Avoid Booking Below Party Decks For Carnival Radiance , try not to book a stateroom directly under the Lido Deck (Deck 9) or too close to Deck 5, as these areas often have loud music and late-night noise from the pool and entertainment venues. For a quieter and more restful stay, choose a cabin near the elevators or stairs on Deck 6 or 7, ideally toward the middle of the ship — these locations offer easier access while minimizing noise. Be sure to check your cruise deck plan while booking to find the quietest cabin possible. 🚗 Parking & Arrival at the Carnival Cruise Terminal (Long Beach, California) Getting to the Carnival Cruise terminal in Long Beach, California is easy and convenient. The best option for most travelers is to park directly at the official Carnival parking garage , located right next to the terminal. It’s slightly more expensive at around $23 per day, so for a 4-day cruise, expect to pay about $90–$100 in total. The benefit is that you can walk straight into the cruise check-in area right after parking — no shuttles or waiting required. If the main parking garage is full, Carnival staff will direct you to a nearby overflow lot and provide free shuttle service to the terminal. It’s still a smooth and convenient option, so you won’t lose much time even if you have to park off-site. If you’re looking to save a little, there are nearby private parking lots that charge roughly $55 for 4 days. From there, you can take an Uber or Lyft to the terminal, which typically costs around $10 each way, bringing your total to about $75. However, based on experience, it’s still better to park at the official Carnival terminal. When the cruise ends, everyone tries to book Uber or Lyft at once, causing long wait times and surge pricing. The small amount you might save isn’t really worth the time and hassle, especially if you’re traveling with parents or luggage. When you arrive at the port, you’ll see porters collecting luggage near the drop-off zone. This is where your bag tags come in handy. Carnival sends printable tags after you book, but I highly recommend buying plastic luggage tag holders from Amazon . They protect your tags from water and tearing — just insert the tag, clip it to your suitcase, and hand it to the porter. Your bags will be delivered directly to your cabin later, saving you from carrying them onboard. After dropping off your bags, the check-in process is smooth and well-organized. You’ll go through security screening, show your passport and visa, and then receive your Sail & Sign card (given outside the stateroom area with your bags). This card serves as both your room key and onboard payment method throughout the cruise. 💡 Pro Tip Bring a ribbon lanyard or waterproof card holder for your Sail & Sign card. It’s super convenient when heading to the pool, buffet, or jacuzzi, so you don’t need to carry your wallet or purse. If you decide to use private parking and are traveling with family, it’s best to drop them and the luggage off at the terminal first, then go and park your car at the off-site lot. Once parked, you can take an Uber back to the terminal — this saves time, keeps things easier for your parents or kids, and helps avoid any car seat issues when using ride-shares. 📱 Mobile Network & Communication One thing you’ll notice as soon as the ship leaves the port is that your mobile network will stop working. Don’t rely on your regular U.S. phone plan, as it won’t connect once you’re out in the open ocean. Carnival offers several WiFi packages , but they can be pricey — around $23 per person per day. Honestly, unless you absolutely need internet for work or emergencies, it’s not worth the extra cost. A smarter and cheaper alternative is to use the Carnival Hub App chat feature , which costs only about $5 per person for the entire cruise. With this, you can text family members onboard and stay connected easily throughout the trip. The Carnival Hub App itself is free to use on the ship’s internal WiFi network — you can browse daily schedules, dining options, show timings, and onboard activities without paying for an internet package. However, if you want to chat through the app, that’s where the $5 per person upgrade applies. Many families, especially those with kids, also bring walkie-talkies , which surprisingly work really well on the ship. It’s a fun, free, and reliable way to communicate if you get separated — especially useful since the ship is large and packed with activities. The Carnival Hub App itself is extremely useful. It displays the daily schedule of onboard activities under "What's Happening", including live music, comedy shows, trivia games, and themed parties. You can even mark your favorite events and set reminders so you don’t miss them. 💡 Pro Tip Bring a waterproof watch or small wristband clock — it’s easy to lose track of time while having fun on deck, and you don’t want to miss dinner or evening shows! 🛏️ Room Amenities & Comfort The rooms on Carnival Cruise are cozy, comfortable, and well-equipped for a short getaway. Depending on your booking, you can choose from an interior room, an ocean-view room, or a balcony cabin. No matter which type you select, every stateroom comes with the essential amenities — fresh towels, shampoo, body soap, a hair dryer, and a mini fridge. The beds are flexible and can be set up as two twin beds or combined into a king-size, depending on your preference. If you’re traveling with kids, Carnival also provides cribs upon request , making it easy for families to travel comfortably. Each cabin includes a TV with live deck and navigation camera views, so you can always see what’s happening outside the ship — a nice touch if you have an interior room without windows. Overall, the Carnival cruise staterooms are simple, clean, and comfortable. With so much happening on board — from shows and pools to dining and entertainment — you’ll likely spend most of your time outside your room, but it’s always nice to come back to a cozy space to relax and recharge. 💡 Pro Tip Bring a large refillable water bottle  (around 64 oz). You can refill it with water, iced tea, or lemonade from the buffet stations and keep it in your room — it’s a simple way to stay hydrated without constantly running to the dining area. 🍽️ Drinks & Food One of the best parts of any Carnival Cruise is the amazing food, and the good news is that all your main meals are included in the ticket price. From breakfast buffets and casual lunch spots to multi-course dinners, there’s always something delicious to enjoy. For Indian families, the highlight is that Carnival actually serves authentic Indian dishes prepared by Indian chefs. My parents loved this — the taste felt close to home, and it made dining onboard even more enjoyable. When it comes to drinks, here’s how it works ( full details ): ✅ Free Drinks: water, lemonade, iced tea, and regular coffee. 🍷 Allowed to Bring Onboard : 1 bottle of wine or champagne per adult, and up to 12 cans of soda (like Coke or Fanta). This is worth doing because drinks onboard are expensive. 💰 Paid Drinks: beer costs around $12 a pint, cocktails are a bit more. Carnival sells a drinks package at about $75 per day per person with a 15-drink limit, but honestly it’s not worth it unless you really plan to drink a lot. Buying individual drinks is much smarter. For dinner, you’ll have a more formal dining experience with multiple courses — appetizers, main dish, and desserts. Every night the menu is different, so it feels special. They do have formal nights where people dress up, but don’t worry too much — even if you go a bit casual, no one will stop you. If you want something extra, there are also fine dining restaurants onboard at a very reasonable cost, but with so much free food available, you might not even feel the need. 🎭 Onboard Activities & Entertainment A Carnival Cruise is never boring — there’s something happening almost every hour of the day! The ship itself has 14 decks , with most of the entertainment and activities centered around decks 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, and 12. Evenings are packed with fun — from comedy shows that change their jokes nightly to magic performances that are a hit with families and kids. If you love music, you’ll enjoy live bands, DJs, trivia nights, and themed performances at the Liquid Lounge. For movie lovers, Carnival also screens films under the stars by the pool — a perfect way to unwind after dinner. For those who prefer a little more action, there’s plenty to explore: 🎰 Casino & Arcade Games – Try your luck at the onboard Carnival casino, or enjoy arcade games that are fun for both kids and adults. 🏊 Swimming Pools, Water Slides & Hot Tubs – Cool off at one of the multiple pools, enjoy the giant water slides, or relax in the jacuzzi while watching the ocean view. ⛳ Mini Golf, Snooker, Giant Chess, Cornhole, Foosball & Sports Deck – From mini golf and snooker tables to giant chess, cornhole, and foosball, there’s plenty of friendly competition waiting on the sports deck. 💃 Nightclubs & Themed Parties – Dance the night away at Carnival’s nightclubs or join one of the many deck parties with live DJs, lights, and an amazing ocean breeze. 📸 Photoshoot & Memories – You’ll find professional photographers all around the ship, with studio-style setups in the main lobby and deck areas. Join in for family portraits, candid shots, and themed photos, which appear on the Carnival app within a few hours. Just remember — once you leave the ship, the photos are no longer accessible, as they’re only available through the cruise network. One highlight is the Sailaway Party , which kicks off around 4 PM when the ship leaves port. There’s music, dancing, and an unbeatable atmosphere of excitement — definitely something you shouldn’t miss! The Carnival app is really handy here because it shows you the full list of events each day. You can scroll through, pick your favorites, and get reminders so you don’t miss anything. But a word of advice — it’s easy to lose track of time on a cruise. That’s why having a waterproof watch (or just any watch) helps a lot. You don’t want to show up late and miss a show you’ve been looking forward to. Whether you’re into relaxing by the pool, dancing at the nightclub, or watching stand-up comedy, there’s always something happening for every age group. 🛍️ Duty-Free Shopping & Extras Beyond all the food, shows, and onboard fun, you’ll also find duty-free shops on your Carnival Cruise. These shops usually sell liquor, perfumes, cosmetics, souvenirs, and branded merchandise — often at prices slightly cheaper than what you’d find on land. It’s a great place to pick up small gifts or keepsakes for family and friends back home. Once the ship reaches Ensenada, Mexico, you’ll have a few hours to explore. This is where carrying some cash comes in handy — whether for local shopping, tipping, or grabbing a quick snack or drink in town. The ship also organizes shore excursions that you can book if you want a guided activity, but if you’re just looking to walk around, you can easily step off and explore on your own. Another small but important tip: keep some cash handy for tipping the crew. While tipping is technically optional, it really feels good to appreciate the amazing service you’ll get from room attendants, servers, and other staff who go out of their way to make your trip smooth. Packing & Practical Tips Packing for a cruise is a little different than packing for a regular trip because you’ll be at sea most of the time. Here are some tips that made my life easier: 👗 Formal wear: Carnival has formal dinner nights, so it’s good to pack at least one nice outfit. Nobody will stop you if you go informal, but parents usually enjoy dressing up a bit. 👕 Comfortable clothes: Most of the day you’ll be relaxing or walking around, so bring light, casual clothes, swimwear, and sandals for the pool or jacuzzi. 💵 Cash: Keep some small bills (like $5 bills) handy for tipping the crew and small expenses in Ensenada. Additionally, carry extra cash (around $100 per person) if you plan to book local bus tours or activities, as most vendors in Ensenada do not accept cards. ⌚ Waterproof watch: Super helpful because you’ll lose track of time easily and might miss events. 🏷️ Bag tags: Buy reusable bag tags from Amazon to keep your luggage organized. Your bags get delivered straight to your room after you hand them over at check-in. 🪪 Room key holder: Get a ribbon or lanyard for your room key card. You’ll need it all the time, and wearing it around your neck means you can move around hands-free. 💧Water bottle: Carry a big refillable bottle (min 32oz) so you can store water or lemonade in your room. 💊 Medication for Motion Sickness: Keep a few motion sickness medicines with you, as the onboard medical center or shops can run out quickly, especially on busy cruises. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to pack child-safe medicines like Baby Tylenol or ibuprofen. These small things make the cruise experience smoother and more enjoyable. You don’t want to be worrying about carrying stuff around or missing out on events just because you weren’t prepared. 🧾 Visa Tips & Travel Documents No Mexican visa is required for H1B or B1/B2 visa holders on this closed-loop cruise. Carry your passport, valid U.S. visa, and I-797 approval notice (for H1B travelers). B1/B2 visitors should keep their travel insurance details handy (optional). U.S. immigration may ask for documents when re-entering, so keep everything together in a folder. Final Thoughts – Why This Cruise Is Worth It Taking a Carnival Cruise from the USA to Mexico is truly one of the best short getaways you can plan — whether your parents are visiting on a B1/B2 visa or you’re on an H1B visa looking for a stress-free vacation. The process is incredibly simple: no extra visas for Mexico, no complex travel arrangements, and everything — from food and entertainment to accommodation — is taken care of once you’re onboard. For parents, it’s a refreshing escape from their daily routine, and for families, it’s an affordable, all-inclusive vacation that doesn’t require long flights or complicated planning. Whether it’s enjoying endless buffets, watching live comedy shows, relaxing in the jacuzzi, or standing on deck during sailaway, every moment feels memorable and unique. If you’re considering it, my advice is simple: go for it. Pack smart, use the Carnival Hub App, bring your own sodas or wine, and just let yourself enjoy the journey. It’s a vacation that feels luxurious yet easy to plan, and one that your parents will fondly remember long after they return home. 🧭 Quick Summary: Carnival Cruise from USA to Mexico (H1B & B1/B2 Travelers) Category Details Cruise Route Long Beach, California → Ensenada, Mexico (3–4 days round trip) Visa Requirement No extra visa needed (closed-loop cruise). Valid H1B or B1/B2 U.S. visa is sufficient. Best Time to Go Late September or late March (22–25°C / 71–77°F) Cruise Line Carnival Radiance (similar rules for Royal Caribbean, Norwegian) Trip Duration 3–4 days Approx. Cost $250–$1000 per person (depends on cabin type and booking time) Cabin Options Interior (~170 sq. ft), Ocean View (~220 sq. ft), Balcony (~185 + 35 sq. ft balcony) WiFi & App Carnival Hub App: free onboard WiFi access; Chat feature: $5/person per trip Food & Dining All meals included; Indian dishes available; fine dining optional Drinks Policy Free: water, lemonade, iced tea, coffee. Bring: 1 wine/champagne bottle per adult + 12 cans of soda. Parking (Long Beach) $23/day at terminal (~$100 total) or $75 off-site (with Uber/Lyft) Entertainment Comedy shows, casino, live music, pools, water slides, Sailaway Party Cash to Carry Small bills ($1–$5) + ~$100 per person for Ensenada activities Motion Sickness Tip Choose mid-ship cabin on Deck 6 or 7 for minimal movement Photo Access Photos viewable only via Carnival App onboard; not available after disembarkation Pro Traveler Tip Book 3–4 months in advance for best deals and weather comfort Related Topics

Update: As of Sept 15, 2025, USCIS has confirmed that the Date of Filing (DOF) will be used 🎉 The October 2025 Visa Bulletin is out, and as expected, there’s finally some movement for India EB1 applicants. While the Final Action Date (FAD) continues to remain unchanged, the Date of Filing (DOF) has advanced by a full year — from April 15, 2022, to April 15, 2023 . For those following closely, this is a significant development. It means that many applicants who were stuck in the 2022 queue now might get the opportunity to file their adjustment of status (AOS) applications in the new fiscal year. Although final approval of green card still depend on the Final Action Date, the forward movement in the Filing Date allows more applicants to get into the pipeline, secure EAD/AP benefits, and prepare for the next stages of their green card journey. What Changed in India EB1 October 2025 Visa Bulletin Let’s break it down clearly: Final Action Date (FAD):  Remains the same, no forward movement for India EB1. Date of Filing (DOF):  Moved ahead by one year — from April 15, 2022 → April 15, 2023 . This pattern is something we’ve seen before. When USCIS expects demand to be high , they often advance the Date of Filing to allow more applicants to prepare for their I-485 paperwork, even if the actual Final Action Date is stuck. This helps the agency manage demand while also preparing the system for future approvals. Example Case To make this clearer, let’s look at this example. Suppose, my priority date is August 15, 2022 under EB1 (India). The Date of Filing for my category is April 15, 2023, which means if USCIS allows DOF, I’m eligible to file right now. But the Final Action Date is only at April 15, 2022, which lags behind my date by about a year. If USCIS allows filing based on DOF , I can go ahead and file my I-485 along with applications for EAD and Advance Parole. Even though my green card wouldn’t be approved until the FAD catches up, I’d still benefit in the meantime by getting work authorization and travel flexibility. On the other hand, if USCIS requires applicants to use the FAD chart, then I’m stuck waiting. My date isn’t yet current under FAD, so I can’t file anything—not even the EAD. This is what we have today as of current month's chart. Next month chart will be announced soon . Source: USCIS Difference Between Date of Filing and Final Action Date The Date of Filing is exactly what it sounds like—the date that USCIS allows you to submit your I-485 Adjustment of Status application. If your priority date is earlier than the DOF listed for your category and country, you can send in your green card application package, which typically includes your I-485, I-765 (EAD), and I-131 (Advance Parole). The Final Action Date , on the other hand, is when a visa number is actually available to you. In other words, USCIS or the consulate can only approve your green card when your priority date is earlier than the FAD listed. Until then, even if you’ve filed your application, it will remain pending in the system. So, DOF is like being allowed to enter the waiting room, while FAD is when your number is finally called. Why Did the Filing Date Move for India EB1? Every October, the new fiscal year quota opens up, and historically, this is when we see the most movement. Last month, I mentioned in my analysis that there was a good chance of movement in EB1 India at the start of FY2026 (October 2025 bulletin). That prediction seems to have played out to some extent. The logic is simple: Fresh Quota Reset – With the start of the new fiscal year, unused visas from family-based categories and spillover from other countries are reallocated. While the spillover was not significant, the numbers still increased to 150,037 from 140,000, which is an improvement. High Pending Demand – USCIS likely has a large number of pending EB1 India applications, so they want to allow more applicants to get into the system. Pipeline Management – By advancing the Filing Date (when USCIS announces that the DOF chart can be used), USCIS can process paperwork, issue EADs, grant Advance Parole, and get cases ready so that when the Final Action Dates move forward in the future, green card approvals can happen smoothly. What This Means for India EB1 Applicants If your priority date is earlier than April 15, 2023 , you may now be eligible to file your I-485 (Adjustment of Status) under the Date of Filing chart. This is a big relief for many applicants who were stuck waiting and could not proceed with their cases. Here’s what you gain once you file: EAD (Employment Authorization Document) → You can work freely without H-1B/L-1 restrictions. AP (Advance Parole) → You can travel outside the U.S. without needing a visa stamp. H-1B Flexibility → No longer tied to strict H-1B rules, giving you more career options. Early Start in the Queue → Even though FAD is stuck, you’re now “in line,” which matters when approvals eventually open up. Of course, approvals will still not happen until the Final Action Date moves. But being able to file is the first step that unlocks a lot of benefits. Processing Times Will Stretch The flood of applications doesn’t just affect green card adjudications. It slows everything. I-485 (Green Card Applications): Expect longer queues before adjudication even starts. I-765 (EAD): Processing times may stretch, delaying work permits that many applicants are counting on. I-131 (Advance Parole): Travel documents that once arrived in a few months could now take twice as long. See current USCIS processing times here . The Bigger Picture: What to Expect Next Now the big question — when will the Final Action Dat e for India EB1 move? Based on past patterns: Short Term (Next 6–12 months): FAD may stay frozen while USCIS assesses demand from the newly filed cases. Don’t expect immediate movement. Read more . Medium Term (Mid FY2026): If demand balances out and spillover remains strong, we could see incremental movement in FAD. Long Term: EB1 historically recovers faster than EB2 or EB3 for India, so while it may take time, chances of FAD catching up are better here compared to other categories. The advancement in DOF is actually a positive sign — it signals that USCIS is preparing for eventual FAD movement. They wouldn’t open up Filing Dates without anticipating some space in the future. Other Ripple Effects Nobody Talks About Beyond the obvious, there are knock-on effects that many applicants won’t see coming: Biometrics centers overloaded: Fingerprint appointments could be booked out for weeks or months. Scramble for medical exams: Civil surgeons in hotspots like California and New Jersey could be overwhelmed, driving up wait times and costs. USCIS revenue spike: Filing fees from 30,000–40,000 applicants means tens of millions flowing in overnight—but money doesn’t instantly translate to faster service. Retrogression risk: If demand spirals out of control, EB1 India dates could retrogress in future bulletins, freezing many of these new cases mid-process. Travel traps: Applicants who travel without Advance Parole after filing risk abandoning their I-485—a mistake many make in the rush. These side effects often get overlooked in the initial excitement, but they become painfully real once the system is flooded. The Job Market Ripple An under-discussed effect is what this does to the job market. With tens of thousands of new applicants receiving EADs: More mobility: Applicants tied to H-1B or L-1 restrictions will now switch jobs freely. Wider access: Some companies that only hire citizens or green card holders may open doors to EAD holders. Increased competition: Certain high-skilled roles, especially in tech and research, could see more applicants in play. In short, DOF filings don’t just shake USCIS—they ripple across entire industries. Our Prediction on India EB1 Back in my previous updates , I had mentioned that October 2025 could bring some movement for EB1 India, especially in new fiscal year. That’s exactly what we’re seeing now. While it’s not the Final Action Date movement we all hoped for, this is still an important step forward. Sometimes, the first sign of recovery in a category comes through Filing Date movement. USCIS uses it as a tool to manage expectations and prepare the ground for bigger shifts later. So in that sense, this is a win for EB1 India applicants. Final Thoughts on India EB1 October 2025 For India EB1 applicants, the October 2025 Visa Bulletin brings a mix of stability and opportunity. The Final Action Date remains unchanged, which means approvals are still on hold for many. But the Date of Filing moving forward to April 15, 2023 is a strong positive, giving thousands of applicants the chance to finally file their adjustment of status in coming months. This development aligns with what we predicted for the new fiscal year — that USCIS would likely make some adjustments in Filing Dates to handle fresh visa numbers. It’s not the end goal yet, but it’s progress in the right direction. If your date is current under the Filing Date chart , my advice is simple: file as soon as possible . This ensures you lock in benefits like EAD and AP while waiting for the Final Action Date to catch up. The road ahead may still be long, but October 2025 is proof that movement is happening, step by step. Related Topics

When applying for a U.S. green card, one of the most confusing parts is understanding priority dates and how they affect your case. The process looks different depending on where you apply: applicants inside the U.S. file through Adjustment of Status (AOS) with USCIS, while those outside the U.S. go through the National Visa Center (NVC) and consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Knowing how to read the Visa Bulletin—and whether the Date of Filing or the Final Action Date applies—determines when your green card case can move forward. This guide explains how priority dates affect both NVC consular processing and Adjustment of Status, and why the difference between the two charts matters. Date of Filing vs Final Action Date — AOS vs NVC Feature / Benefit Adjustment of Status (AOS) 🇺🇸 NVC Consular Processing 🌍 Can file early when DOF is current ? ✔️ Yes ❌ No Work permit (EAD) while waiting ✔️ Yes ❌ No Travel permit (Advance Parole) while waiting ✔️ Yes ❌ No Green card approval timing ❌ Only when FAD is current ❌ Only when FAD is current Effect of retrogression ✔️ Case paused, but keep EAD/AP ❌ Case stuck, no benefits What is NVC Consular Processing? If you’re applying for a green card from outside the U.S., the first step is filing a petition (Form I-130 for family-based or Form I-140 for employment-based cases) with USCIS. Once that is approved, the second step goes through the National Visa Center (NVC), which collects your forms, fees, and documents before forwarding your case to the U.S. embassy or consulate for an interview. Family-Based NVC Example: A U.S. citizen files Form I-130 for their spouse. After approval, the case goes to the NVC. The applicant completes the DS-260 immigrant visa application, submits documents like a birth certificate and marriage certificate, and then waits for the interview at the embassy. Employment-Based NVC Example: A worker approved through Form I-140 (or in some categories self-petitioning, like EB-1A or EB-2 NIW) also goes through NVC. They pay the fees, complete the DS-260 , and send in supporting documents before the embassy interview. In both cases, the interview is scheduled only when the Final Action Date is current (not the Date of Filing). Once the immigrant visa is issued, you can travel to the U.S., and your green card is mailed to your U.S. address after arrival. Step-by-Step: NVC Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.) File I-130 (Family-Based) or I-140 (Employment-Based) with USCIS. After USCIS approval → case sent to NVC. NVC contacts you by email with instructions for the second step. File DS-260 (immigrant visa application) and pay the NVC immigrant visa fee (~$345 per person). Submit civil (birth, marriage, etc.) and financial documents to NVC. Check your NVC case status online with your case number and invoice number. Check the Visa Bulletin . Your interview is scheduled only when the Final Action Date is current (not Date of Filing). Wait for and attend your interview at the U.S. embassy/consulate. Receive the immigrant visa (IV). Travel to the U.S. using your immigrant visa. Green Card is mailed to your U.S. address after arrival. What is Adjustment of Status (AOS)? Adjustment of Status lets eligible applicants already inside the U.S. apply for a green card without leaving the country. After your petition (I-130 family-based or I-140 employment-based) is approved—and when USCIS says your priority date is current (they announce monthly which Visa Bulletin chart to use)—you file Form I-485. While the case is pending, you can typically get work authorization (EAD) and Advance Parole for travel. Most cases end with an interview at a local USCIS field offices, and the green card is mailed to your address if approved. Family-Based AOS example: A U.S. citizen’s spouse in the U.S. often files I-130 and I-485 together (concurrent filing) and stays in the U.S. for biometrics and interview until visa bulletin is current—no embassy visit. Employment-Based AOS example: A worker in valid U.S. status files I-485 when their priority date is current per USCIS’s monthly guidance (some categories can self-petition, e.g., EB-1A, EB-2 NIW). They remain in the U.S. for processing; no consular interview. Step-by-Step: Adjustment of Status (Inside the U.S.) File I-130 (Family-Based) or I-140 (Employment-Based) with USCIS. Check the Visa Bulletin – you can only move forward if your Final Action Date (or in some cases Date of Filing ) is current. File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with USCIS. Pay the I-485 filing fee (varies by age and category, typically $1,140 + $85 biometrics fee). Submit supporting documents (birth/marriage certificates, financial documents, I-864 affidavit of support if family-based, etc.). Attend biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center. Receive EAD (Employment Authorization Document) and, in many cases, Advance Parole travel document while your green card application is pending. Attend your USCIS interview (if required, usually at a local USCIS field office). Wait for USCIS decision – if approved, you receive your green card directly by mail at your U.S. address. October 2025 Visa Bulletin — A Perfect Example The October 2025 Visa Bulletin is the perfect example to understand this difference that created a lot of buzz because of a big shift in the Date of Filing (DOF) chart, while the Final Action Dates (FAD) hardly moved at all. For example, in the EB-1 category for India, the Date of Filing advanced by almost one full year, but the Final Action Date stayed the same. If you don't know the difference between these dates, here is the brief difference: Date of Filing (DOF): The earliest date you can submit your green card application package (Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status, or DS-260 for NVC Consular Processing). Final Action Date (FAD): The date when a visa number is actually available, and your case can be approved or an interview scheduled. Impact on Adjustment of Status (Inside the U.S.) Good news:  When DOF moves forward, AOS applicants benefit because USCIS often allows early filing of Form I-485. Why it matters:  Filing early means you can get EAD (work permit) and Advance Parole (travel document) while you wait, even though your green card won’t be approved until the FAD is current. Limitation:  The actual green card is issued only when the Final Action Date is current. Retrogression impact:  If the Final Action Date retrogresses (moves backward) after you file, your case approval will be paused until the FAD becomes current again. The good part? Your EAD and Advance Parole remain valid as long as your I-485 is pending. Impact on NVC Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.) No real benefit:  NVC applicants cannot take advantage of early filing. Interviews are scheduled only when the Final Action Date is current. What it means:  Even if the Date of Filing chart shows progress, you must wait for the FAD before NVC schedules your consular interview. Retrogression impact:  If the Final Action Date retrogresses, your case will be stuck at NVC. Even if you’ve already submitted all documents, the embassy will not issue interview appointments until the FAD becomes current again. Unlike AOS, you get no interim benefits (like EAD or travel authorization). Real Example: EB-1 India in October 2025 In the October 2025 Visa Bulletin, the EB-1 India category showed a clear gap between the two charts. The Date of Filing (DOF) advanced to April 15, 2023, while the Final Action Date (FAD) stayed back at February 15, 2022. This difference has very different consequences depending on whether an applicant is filing through Adjustment of Status (AOS 🇺🇸) inside the U.S. or NVC Consular Processing (🌍) abroad. For example, let’s consider two applicants—one with a priority date of August 15, 2022, and another with a priority date of January 15, 2022. Priority Date Adjustment of Status (AOS 🇺🇸) NVC Consular Processing 🌍 Aug 15, 2022 Eligible to file I-485 now because DOF is April 2023. The applicant can receive EAD and Advance Parole  while waiting. However, the green card itself will not be approved  until FAD passes Aug 2022. Cannot move forward. The embassy will not schedule an interview until the Final Action Date  reaches Aug 2022. No interim benefits. Jan 15, 2022 Can file I-485 and, since FAD is already February 2022, the case can move to approval immediately . Eligible for interview and immigrant visa issuance because FAD is current . This example shows why the October 2025 Visa Bulletin is such a perfect illustration: AOS applicants benefit from the ability to file early under the Date of Filing chart and enjoy interim benefits, while NVC applicants remain tied to the Final Action Date and cannot move forward until it becomes current. Final Thoughts The October 2025 Visa Bulletin is a textbook example of how the two charts affect applicants differently: Adjustment of Status filers may gain the ability to file early and access benefits like EAD and Advance Parole, while NVC applicants must wait until the Final Action Date is current before moving forward. If you are currently waiting, here are two essential tools to bookmark: Visa Bulletin (U.S. Department of State) – published monthly with updated cutoff dates. CEAC Case Status Check – to track your case status if your application is with the NVC. Key takeaway: If you’re in the U.S., early filing under the Date of Filing chart can give you work and travel benefits even before your green card is issued. If you’re outside the U.S., patience is the only option—you must wait for the Final Action Date to become current. Pro tip: Visa Bulletin movement, especially retrogression, can be unpredictable. Always consult an experienced immigration attorney to understand how the monthly changes apply to your specific case. Related Topics

As of September 20, 2025, The H1B 100k executive order has created huge confusion in the last 24 hours. Many people are worried about what it really means and how it will affect H1B visa holders. The order itself was signed by President Donald Trump, and you can read the original White House document  here. Normally, the cost of filing an H1B visa is a few thousand dollars, usually between US$2,000 and US$8,000. This includes the basic petition fee, training fee, fraud prevention fee, and sometimes an extra fee for premium processing. Please see the table below for the detailed breakdown: Fee Type Amount Registration Fee $215  — for entering the lottery registration. Base Filing Fee (Form I-129) $780  if employer has 26+ full-time employees; $460  for small employers / non-profits. ACWIA Training Fee $750 (if 1-25 employees) or $1,500 (if 26+). Fraud Prevention & Detection $500. Public Law 114-113 Fee $4,000 (if employer has many H1B/L1 workers). Asylum Program Fee $600 for larger employers; $300 for small ones; exempt for nonprofits in some cases. Premium Processing (optional) $2,805 — speeds up processing (15 days). But after this news broke, people started saying the cost has gone up by $100,000. Some even thought it means $100,000 every year for each visa. This sounded like a shocking increase of thousands of percent compared to the current cost. Part of the panic came from a statement by Howard Nutlick, who mentioned “ a hundred thousand dollars a year ” at the 1:15 mark in this video. That one line spread quickly on social media, including this viral post on X, and made the situation even more confusing. Reference: The New York Post Within hours, WhatsApp groups, online forums, and social media were full of worried messages. Some H1B workers even rushed to fly back from India, fearing they might not be allowed to return later. Flight prices doubled over the weekend as panic spread. Microsoft urged its employees to return to the US by Sunday following Trump's executive order on H1B visas affecting several individuals. Many other companies also emailed their foreign employees with the same request. The H1B 100k executive order would have the biggest impact on large tech and consulting companies, since they file the highest number of H1B petitions each year. Companies like Amazon, Infosys, Cognizant, Google, TCS, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple together account for tens of thousands of H1B workers annually. A $100,000 fee per petition would add billions in costs, forcing these firms to rethink hiring strategies, shift roles overseas, or cut back on future H1B sponsorships. Company Approx # of H-1B Visa Beneficiaries / Approvals (recent data) Amazon ~ 9,265 Infosys ~ 8,140 Cognizant ~ 6,321 Google ~ 5,364 Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) ~ 5,274 Meta Platforms ~ 4,844 Microsoft ~ 4,725 Apple ~ 3,873 In this blog, we will explain what the H1B 100k executive order really says, what people misunderstood, and what the real impact is for H1B visa holders. Clearing the Confusion The panic around the H1B 100k executive order finally started to calm down when Karoline Leavitt , Assistant to the President and the 36th White House Press Secretary, made an official clarification. You can see her announcement on her official X account . She made three important points very clear: It is not an annual fee. The $100,000 charge is a one-time fee that applies only when a new H-1B petition is filed. Current H-1B holders will not be charged. If you already have an H-1B visa and are outside the U.S. right now, you do not need to pay $100,000 to re-enter. Your normal travel and re-entry rights stay the same. It applies only to new visas. The fee will apply starting with the next H-1B lottery cycle. It does not affect renewals or people who already hold valid H-1B visas. This official clarification helped stop a lot of the panic, especially for people who thought they might get charged every year, or for simply re-entering the US. USCIS Clarification The next big update came directly from USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services). They confirmed that President Trump’s new H1B visa requirement under the H1B 100k executive order applies only to new, prospective petitions that have not yet been filed. This means that any H1B petitions submitted before September 21, 2025 are not affected by the $100,000 fee. So, if your petition was already filed, you don’t need to worry about this new rule. USCIS repeated this point in an official post on X and also released a formal document to make sure employers and workers understood the details. This second clarification helped calm fears even more, especially for those who thought their already-submitted petitions might suddenly become invalid or cost a lot more. USCIS Newsroom On Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, the USCIS newsroom also published a clarification about President Donald J. Trump signing a proclamation called “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers”. This is an early step to change the H-1B visa program, with the goal of stopping misuse and protecting U.S. workers. What the Proclamation Does Starting Sept. 21, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. (EDT), every new H-1B petition (including the 2026 lottery) must include a $100,000 payment. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State are responsible for carrying out these rules. Guidance has already been issued by USCIS, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the State Department. What It Does NOT Do It does not affect H-1B visas that were already issued, or petitions filed before Sept. 21, 2025. It does not change fees for H-1B renewals. The new $100,000 fee only applies to new petitions. Current H-1B holders can still travel in and out of the U.S. as usual. What’s Coming Next The Department of Labor will propose new rules to raise the required wage levels , so H-1B workers are truly high-skilled and highly paid. The Department of Homeland Security will propose changes to the H-1B lottery to favor higher-skilled, higher-paid applicants. CBP Statement Finally, CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) also stepped in to clear the air. In an official post on X , they wrote: Let’s set the record straight: President Trump’s updated H-1B visa requirement applies only to new, prospective petitions that have not yet been filed. Petitions submitted prior to September 21, 2025 are not affected. Any reports claiming otherwise are flat-out wrong and should be ignored. This strong statement from CBP backed up what both the White House Press Secretary and USCIS had already clarified. Together, these official updates made it clear that the H1B 100k executive order only impacts future petitions, not current visa holders or already filed cases. Conclusion The past 24 hours have been full of panic, rumors, and confusion about the H1B 100k executive order . Many thought it meant H1B holders would suddenly have to pay $100,000 every year, or even just to re-enter the U.S. But now the facts are clear: The $100,000 fee is a one-time charge for new petitions only. Current H1B holders and renewals are not affected. Petitions filed before September 21, 2025 stay valid and will not face the new fee. Official statements from the White House Press Secretary, USCIS, and CBP all confirm the same thing. So while the fee is still a big change for future applicants, it is not the nightmare scenario that many feared at first. For now, H1B visa holders can continue their plans without worrying about surprise re-entry fees or retroactive costs. Going forward, employers and applicants will need to prepare for the higher expense in the next lottery cycle, but at least the confusion is cleared. FAQs on the H1B 100K Executive Order Is the $100,000 H1B fee an annual fee? No. The $100K fee under the H1B 100k executive order is a one-time fee that applies only when filing a new petition, I-129. It is not charged every year. Does the $100K fee apply to current H1B holders? No. If you already have an H1B visa, you will not be charged $100,000 to keep working or to re-enter the U.S. Does this apply to H1B renewals? No. The fee only applies to new petitions filed in the upcoming lottery cycle. Renewals and extensions are not affected. What about petitions already filed before the order? Petitions submitted before September 21, 2025 are not impacted by the new fee. When will the $100K fee actually start? It will take effect starting with the next H1B lottery cycle for new applicants. Related Topics

This page shows the current I-140 processing times for EB1a, EB1b, EB1c, EB2, EB3, and other employment-based green card application categories at Service Center Operations (SCOPS). USCIS no longer provides separate processing times for individual service centers; instead, all service center cases are reported under SCOPS. The data shown here is updated regularly based on official USCIS processing time reports. Current I-140 Processing Time Recently Approved I-140 Cases FAQ: I-140 Processing Time How can I determine which service center is processing my I-140 application? Refer to the first three letters of your I-140 receipt number; 'SSC' indicates the Texas Service Center, while 'NSC' indicates the Nebraska Service Center. What's the average processing time for I-140 premium processing? 45 days for EB1c and EB2-NIW categories. 30 days for EB1a, EB1b, EB2 and EB3 categories. What's the I-140 premium processing fee? The I-140 premium processing fee is $2,805. How do I request premium processing for Form I-140 after applying? You can request I-140 premium processing by using Form I-907 . Next: Current green card priority date India Related Posts ✔ I-485 processing time ✔ How to expedite the I-485 application? ✔ How to apply for H4 EAD? Related Topics

This page displays the current processing times for Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) under Service Center Operations (SCOPS). USCIS no longer provides separate processing times for individual service centers; instead, all service center cases are reported under SCOPS. The data shown here is updated regularly based on official USCIS processing time reports. Current I-131 Processing Time Recently Approved I-131 Cases If you are a green card applicant, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee in the United States, there may be times when you need official permission to travel abroad and return without losing your status. That’s where Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, comes in. Understanding this form is crucial because traveling without it could cause your application to be abandoned or your legal status to be put at risk. What is Form I-131? Form I-131 is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request a travel document. Depending on your situation, it can serve different purposes: Advance Parole: For those with a pending green card application (Form I-485). It allows you to leave the U.S. temporarily and return without abandoning your application. Re-Entry Permit: For permanent residents (green card holders) who plan to remain outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years. Refugee Travel Document: For refugees or asylees who need permission to travel abroad and return. Who Should File Form I-131? You should consider filing Form I-131 if you fall into one of these categories: Pending Green Card Applicants (AOS): If you filed Form I-485 and want to travel before approval, you must apply for Advance Parole. Leaving without it will result in USCIS treating your case as abandoned. Green Card Holders: If you intend to spend extended time outside the U.S. (typically 1–2 years), you should file for a Re-Entry Permit to avoid being considered as having abandoned your residency. Refugees or Asylees: If you were granted refugee or asylum status and want to travel abroad, you need a Refugee Travel Document to re-enter the U.S. legally. How to File Form I-131 Step 1: Complete the Form You can download Form I-131 directly from the USCIS website . Fill it carefully based on the type of travel document you are applying for (Advance Parole, Re-Entry Permit, or Refugee Travel Document). Step 2: Gather Required Documents Typical documents include: A copy of a government-issued ID (passport, green card, or driver’s license). Proof of pending I-485 (if applying for Advance Parole). Two passport-style photos. Supporting evidence for the type of request (e.g., explanation of travel necessity). Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee As of 2025, fees vary: Advance Parole: $575 Re-Entry Permit: $660 (includes biometrics fee) Refugee Travel Document: $135–$220 depending on age (Fee amounts are subject to USCIS updates, so always check the latest fee schedule before filing.) Step 4: Submit Your Application Mail the completed Form I-131 with supporting documents and fee payment to the correct USCIS lockbox address (based on your category and state of residence). Step 5: Biometrics Appointment (If Required) For re-entry permits and some Advance Parole cases, USCIS requires fingerprints and biometrics. You’ll receive a notice to attend an appointment at a local Application Support Center. Common Mistakes to Avoid Traveling before approval: If you leave the U.S. without Advance Parole while your I-485 is pending, your application will be denied as abandoned. Not applying early enough: Apply at least 6 months before planned travel, since processing can be slow. Incorrect category selection: Choose the correct type of travel document (Advance Parole, Re-Entry, or Refugee Travel Document). Missing supporting documents: Incomplete applications are a leading cause of delays or rejections. Form I-131 is more than just a travel form—it’s your safeguard to maintain legal immigration status while traveling abroad. Whether you’re a green card applicant, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, understanding how and when to file is essential. Next: I-485 processing time Related Posts ✔ Contacting congressman for expedited request ✔  Current green card priority date for India ✔  I-485 processing time for family-based Related Topics