28 August 2025
As we move toward the end of the U.S. government’s fiscal year on September 30, 2025, visa number availability is tightening across several green card categories. For applicants — especially professionals and families waiting for permanent residency — this could mean delays in visa issuance, even if your immigration interview is already on the calendar.
Understanding how the visa number system works — and preparing for potential cut-offs — can help you stay ahead, minimize stress, and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Why Visa Numbers Run Out
U.S. immigration law sets annual numerical limits for both family-based and employment-based green card categories. These numbers are managed by the Department of State (DOS) through the Visa Bulletin, which is updated monthly.
- When demand is lower than supply, a category is “current.”
- When demand outpaces supply, the DOS sets a cut-off date — meaning only applicants with priority dates before that cut-off can move forward.
As the fiscal year winds down, certain categories often exhaust their annual allocations. When that happens, they “retrogress” or become unavailable until October 1, 2025, when the new fiscal year resets visa numbers.
Categories at Higher Risk in 2025
Based on past trends, these categories are most likely to experience shortages:
Family-Based
- F2A – Spouses and children of green card holders
- F4 – Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens
Employment-Based
- EB-2 – Advanced degree professionals
- EB-3 – Skilled workers and professionals
- EB-4 – Certain special immigrants (currently unavailable)
For many professionals working with an Immigration Attorney in New Jersey or across the U.S., these categories are the most relevant to watch closely.
What If You Already Have an Interview Scheduled?
A visa retrogression doesn’t always mean your progress stops. Here’s what you need to know:
✅ Do not cancel your interview unless specifically instructed by the embassy or consulate.
✅ Your case will remain documentarily complete and ready for issuance once numbers return.
✅ In some cases, consular officers may hold your passport, anticipating quick visa availability.
✅ If you need your passport urgently, you can request its return and resubmit later.
Key Tips for Applicants
- Track the Visa Bulletin Monthly – Monitor your category and priority date.
- Attend Your Interview – Even if your visa category is not current, showing up keeps your case ready for fast issuance.
- Prepare for Delays – Build flexibility into your travel and employment plans.
- Stay in Contact With the Embassy/Consulate – Follow up promptly if your passport is held or more documentation is required.
Looking Ahead to October 2025
The good news: when the new fiscal year begins October 1, 2025, visa numbers reset. Historically, categories that retrogress in September often move forward again in October — allowing many pending cases to be finalized quickly.
For businesses hiring international professionals, and for families waiting on permanent residency, this means the first weeks of October could bring long-awaited progress.
Final Thoughts
If your interview is coming up near the end of the fiscal year, keep these points in mind:
- Show up to your interview.
- Don’t panic if your category retrogresses.
- Be ready — your case may be issued as soon as October.
At VKM Law Group, our team of Immigration Attorneys in New Jersey closely monitors Visa Bulletin changes, prepares clients for interviews, and provides proactive legal strategies to handle delays caused by visa number shortages. Whether you’re a tech executive hiring specialized talent, a hospital recruiting international doctors, or a business manager bringing skilled workers to the U.S., our immigration guidance helps you stay ahead.
FAQs
Q: Will my interview be canceled if my visa category retrogresses?
A: No, most interviews still proceed. Your case will be held until numbers are available again.
Q: Why would the embassy keep my passport if a visa isn’t available?
A: Officers may anticipate quick visa availability and keep your passport for faster issuance.
Q: What happens if my case is delayed into the new fiscal year?
A: Once numbers reset in October, many delayed cases are finalized promptly.
👉 Need help navigating visa retrogression, green card delays, or business immigration strategies? Contact VKM Law Group – your trusted Immigration Attorney in New Jersey and across the USA.