The short answer
No single country can receive more than a small share of the yearly green cards, so countries with many applicants, such as India, China, Mexico and the Philippines, have longer lines. The Visa Bulletin shows a separate column for these countries.
What to know
- India often has the longest lines in employment categories.
- Mexico and the Philippines are known for long family lines.
- The date in each column shows how far the line has moved.
- Our history pages show how each category and country moved over time.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see the State Department visa website.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.