If the Visa Bulletin is dated back (retrogression), will the application be canceled?

When following Visa Bulletin, many people see that the priority dates for F2A, F2B, F3 or F4 categories have been pushed back from the previous month and are worried that there is a problem with their application. In fact, this phenomenon is called retrogression and does not mean records are destroyed.

What is Retrogression?

Retrogression occurs when the U.S. Department of State adjusts priority dates back because the number of visas issued is nearing the fiscal year limit. This is a visa quota management mechanism and can occur in many priority categories.

Will the file be destroyed?

The answer is no. When Visa Bulletin is backdated:

• USCIS records are still valid
• Records at NVC are still kept
• The original priority date remains unchanged
• The sponsored person does not need to resubmit the I-130

The change is that the application cannot continue with the visa issuance step until the priority date is current again.

What if it's DQ?

DQ records still retain their DQ status. NVC will continue to save the application and wait for the current priority date to return to schedule the interview.

What if I already have an interview scheduled?

From time to time, the Consulate may:

• Still keep the interview schedule if the visa has been allocated
• Postpone or adjust schedule if visa is not available

Invitation recipients should monitor emails from NVC or the Consulate for updated instructions.

What should you do during retrogression?

• Follow Visa Bulletin monthly
• Check passport validity
• Extend your criminal record if it is about to expire
• Prepare original documents for interviews
• Follow emails from NVC

Things that don't need to be done

• No need to resubmit I-130
• No need to create a new profile
• There is no need to re-pay the NVC fee if the application is still valid
• No need to panic when you see the date has been pushed back

What does CaseTracker Auto support?

• Monitor Visa Bulletin automatically
• Receive notifications when priority dates move forward or backward
• Save DQ dates and important record milestones
• Track USCIS and NVC status in the same app

Conclusion

Retrogression is the phenomenon of adjusting visa quotas and does not mean the application is canceled. It is important to continue to monitor the Visa Bulletin, keep your documents current, and be prepared to continue your application as soon as the priority date becomes available again.