How will I know if USCIS switches to the Final Action chart mid-year?

Only by checking the USCIS filing charts page each month, or by using an alert that watches it for you.

Does the chart choice apply to consular processing?

No. It applies to adjustment of status with USCIS. Applicants processing through NVC and a consulate follow State Department instructions.

Does USCIS use the same chart for family and employment cases?

Not necessarily. USCIS makes a separate choice for family-sponsored and employment-based preference categories.

Visa Bulletin

Which Visa Bulletin chart does USCIS use this month?

Updated November 12, 2026 · Not legal advice

USCIS publishes the answer each month on its "Adjustment of Status Filing Charts from the Visa Bulletin" page, with separate choices for family-sponsored and employment-based cases. It usually posts within about a week of the State Department publishing the bulletin.

How to check it yourself

Open the USCIS filing charts page.
Under "Current Month's Adjustment of Status Filing Charts", read the family-sponsored and employment-based lines.
Open the bulletin it links to and use the chart named there.

Can USCIS switch charts mid-year?

Yes. USCIS decides month by month, so a category can move from Dates for Filing to Final Action Dates (or back) when demand changes. That is one of the changes our alerts watch for.

Quick answers

How will I know if USCIS switches to the Final Action chart mid-year?: Only by checking the USCIS filing charts page each month, or by using an alert that watches it for you.
Does the chart choice apply to consular processing?: No. It applies to adjustment of status with USCIS. Applicants processing through NVC and a consulate follow State Department instructions.
Does USCIS use the same chart for family and employment cases?: Not necessarily. USCIS makes a separate choice for family-sponsored and employment-based preference categories.

What to do next

Get an email the day your category moves in the Visa Bulletin.

Set up a free alert

Sources

Checked: November 12, 2026