What is ‘visa retrogression’ and how does it affect H-1B holders?

Visa retrogression happens when the issuance of immigrant visas in a given category stalls because demand exceeds the available slots for that period. In practice, even those who have already started the process may face longer waits, because the queue moves backward instead of forward.

It does not directly affect the H-1B, which is a nonimmigrant visa, but it weighs on H-1B professionals who later pursue permanent residence (green card). It is in that transition where category visa availability comes into play.

• The Visa Bulletin, published by the Department of State, shows which cases may move forward.
• Your case advances when your priority date becomes available (current) under the bulletin.
• If the queue retrogresses, the process goes back to waiting until a slot opens again.

Since availability changes from time to time, follow the Visa Bulletin and official guidance to plan realistically, and consider working with a specialist to assess your specific situation.

About the author

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.