Is there priority date retrogression in EB-1?

In general, the EB-1 has historically tended to keep priority dates “current”, meaning that qualified petitions tend to move forward without the retrogression that stalls the queue in other categories. Retrogression is precisely when the available priority date moves backward because demand exceeds the supply of visas in a given period.

Since EB-1 is the first preference category in employment-based immigration, it typically has more availability than more competitive categories. This is not a guarantee: the situation for each category and country of chargeability is reassessed periodically, and changes in demand, policy, or administration can shift the picture.

• Retrogression occurs when demand exceeds the visas available in a given period.
• EB-1 tends to remain “current”, but this can vary over time.
• The actual availability appears in the official visa bulletin, updated on a regular basis.

To check the current status before planning your timeline, follow the visa bulletin from the Department of State and USCIS guidance, or consult a specialist to assess your specific case.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.