Applying for a green card is a big step — and timing matters more than most people realize. Filing at the right time can mean faster approval, fewer delays, and better chances of success. Whether you’re applying through family, employment, or a special category, understanding when to apply is just as important as how.
Why Timing Matters
The U.S. immigration system operates on strict timelines, processing quotas, and availability based on visa categories and country limits. Missing the right window to apply can result in delays, retrogression of priority dates, or worse — your application getting rejected. That’s why it’s crucial to plan your green card application strategically.
Best Time for Family-Based Green Cards
For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouse, parents, unmarried children under 21), there’s no annual cap, so you can apply any time. However, for family preference categories (siblings, adult children), visa numbers are limited, and wait times can vary from months to decades.
The best time to apply is as soon as the petitioning U.S. relative becomes eligible, especially if you’re from a country with high demand like India, China, Mexico, or the Philippines.
Best Time for Employment-Based Green Cards
Employment-based green cards (EB1, EB2, EB3, etc.) are subject to annual quotas and priority dates. The best time to apply is:
When your priority date is current based on the latest Visa Bulletin
When you meet all eligibility criteria and have your labor certification (PERM) approved (if required)
If you qualify for EB1A or National Interest Waiver (NIW), apply as soon as possible since these don’t require employer sponsorship and may have shorter wait times.
Check the Visa Bulletin Monthly
The U.S. Department of State releases a Visa Bulletin every month, which shows which categories and countries are current for green card processing. Tracking this helps you know:
When you’re eligible to file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
Whether there’s a risk of priority date retrogression (when the date moves backward)
Planning your application around the Visa Bulletin can save months or even years of waiting.
Applying from Inside vs. Outside the U.S.
If you’re in the U.S. on a valid visa, you can often file for a green card through Adjustment of Status when your category becomes current. Applying while already in the country is usually faster and avoids international processing delays.
If you’re outside the U.S., you’ll need to go through Consular Processing. In such cases, the best time to apply is:
1. After your petition is approved (Form I-130 or I-140)
2. When your case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC)
3. As soon as your priority date is current
Best Time of Year to Apply?
While USCIS accepts applications year-round, some months are better than others. For example:
1. October is often the best time because the new visa year begins, and more green card numbers are available
2. Avoid applying in late September, when visa caps may be close to full
3. Applying early in the fiscal year (October–December) can improve your chances of faster processing, especially in employment-based cases
Apply Before Life Changes Complicate Your Case
Delaying your green card application could cause issues if:
1. Your visa expires
2. You age out (turn 21 as a dependent)
3. Your marital or employment status changes
4. Immigration policies change or become stricter
The safest move is to apply as soon as you’re eligible, while your situation is stable.
Need Help Figuring Out When to Apply?
At HELPINGREENCARD, we guide individuals and families on the best time to start their green card journey — based on personal timelines, visa categories, and policy changes. Avoid costly mistakes and missed deadlines by getting expert support.
Reach out to us today:
Phone: +91–830–5233–223
Email: helpingreencard@gmail.com
Website: www.helpingreencard.com
