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If the EB-1 priority date retrogresses, how long do I expect to wait?

Retrogression of the EB-1 priority date can delay the process by months or over a year; follow the Visa Bulletin and consult professionals for reliable guidance.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on September 4, 2025
2 min read
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When discussing the matter, it’s important to understand that the EB-1 visa scenario can be affected by several factors, and the retrogression of the priority date means that the availability of visa numbers has temporarily decreased, causing people who already had a ‘current’ date to have to wait for a new update that allows the process to continue.

There is no exact answer or fixed period for how long you should wait if retrogression occurs in the EB-1 category. In many situations, the wait can vary from a few months to, in more complex cases, over a year.

This variation depends on several factors, such as global demand, current immigration policies, and the handling of these dates in the Visa Bulletin published monthly by the United States Department of State. Therefore, it is essential to regularly follow the Visa Bulletin, which is the official reference for checking updates on priority dates.

Additionally, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of abiding by the country’s immigration laws and consulting official sources when analyzing your situation. Although it’s common to find diverse information and promises of quick solutions on the internet, avoid falling for scams or marketing campaigns that guarantee results.

Seeking clarifications from specialized professionals – always remembering that no company or consultant can promise approval or definitive results – is a way to ensure that you follow the correct steps based on legislation and official guidelines.

In summary, the waiting time after a retrogression in the EB-1 category can vary greatly, and keeping up with official updates and trends in the Visa Bulletin is the best way to stay informed about the progress of your case.

Learn more about EB-1 Visa

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

If the EB-1 priority date retrogresses, how long do I expect to wait?

Retrogression of the EB-1 priority date can delay the process by months or over a year; follow the Visa Bulletin and consult professionals for reliable guidance.

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