We're excited to present the Q2 2026 edition of BDV Newsletter, your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and updates on the EB-3 unskilled journey. This issue brings you key information to help keep you informed about the developments shaping the future of EB-3 immigration.
In this edition, we'll cover:
As of 06/30/2026, the Department of Labor is reviewing the Labor Certifications (LC) filed in June 2025.
Check Processing Times| PERM Processing Times (as of 06/30/2026) | |
|---|---|
| Processing Queue | Priority Date |
| Analyst Review | June 2025 |
| Audit Review | December 2025 |
| Reconsideration Request to the CO | February 2026 |
BDV approvals for Q2 (April through June) 2026:
| BDV Approval Category | Count |
|---|---|
| Labor Certificate approvals | 965 |
| I-140 approvals | 219 |
| I-765 approvals | 19 |
| Green Card / Immigrant Visa approvals | 53 |
The July 2026 Visa Bulletin has been released. For EB-3 Unskilled, the priority dates for July are:
USCIS has confirmed that for all employment-based preference categories, you must use the Final Action Dates chart in the Department of State Visa Bulletin for July 2026.
The July 2026 Visa Bulletin shows continued forward movement in the EB-3 “Other Workers” (unskilled) category. The Final Action Date advanced by one month while the Dates for Filing held steady at August 1, 2022.
Please rest assured that if your priority date is current, BDV will be reaching out to discuss the next steps in your green card journey. We appreciate your patience, and we are here for you!
Expert insights to help you navigate your EB-3 journey | Key updates and policy changes you need to know | Live Q&A — get your immigration questions answered!
Chris Richardson, along with Leon Rodriguez (Former USCIS Director) and Michael Valverde (Former USCIS Senior Leader), came live for an exclusive discussion on the latest Adjustment of Status (AOS) memo and what it means for immigrants and EB-3 applicants.
An in-depth breakdown of the AOS memo, what it means for pending and future EB-3 applications, and answers to the most pressing questions from the community.
The U.S. government is planning to significantly reduce the number of embassies and consulates in Africa that can process visa applications. Under the proposal, the number of visa-processing locations would decrease from nearly 50 to only 20 designated regional hubs. Applicants from countries without a processing hub may need to travel to another country for visa interviews and processing.
Embassies in non-hub countries would remain open for services such as assisting U.S. citizens and handling emergency matters, but routine visa processing would be centralized at the designated hubs. The proposal is part of a broader effort by the administration to increase immigration screening and reduce visa overstays.
USCIS has recently implemented an enhanced fingerprint-based background check system in coordination with the FBI. As a result, many pending immigration applications that previously completed fingerprint screening must undergo an additional review through the new system before a decision can be issued.
This change may cause delays for applicants with pending cases, including adjustment of status, naturalization, asylum, and certain other immigration benefits. In most cases, applicants will not need to attend a new biometrics appointment because USCIS can generally reuse fingerprints already on file. Applicants should be prepared for possible delays, but rest assured that BDV will monitor case status as USCIS completes the updated screening process.
USCIS issued a major policy memo in May 2026 affecting adjustment of status applications. If you have questions about how it impacts your case, this article has the answers you need.
USCIS issued a May 2026 policy memo affecting adjustment of status. Get answers to key FAQs and learn how BDV Solutions can help protect your case.
“My experience with BDV Solutions was excellent. I started my EB-3 Green Card process in August 2021, and after 4 years and 9 months, my Green Card was approved in May 2026. My case included several challenges, but throughout the entire process, the BDV team was always available to answer my questions and provide guidance. Immigration cases can be complex, and having an experienced and supportive team made a huge difference for my family and me. I am incredibly grateful for their support and highly recommend BDV Solutions to anyone considering the EB-3 process.”
— Roberta Oliveira
Priority Date — 10/15/2021
Green Card Approved — 05/06/2026 AOS