November 2025 Visa Bulletin: No Movement in EB-2 and EB-3 for International Nurses

The November 2025 Visa Bulletin has been released and while we know many international nurses were hoping for forward movement, the priority date remains at April 1, 2023, with no change from October.

While there hasn’t been movement this month, remember that this is a normal part of the process. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way by helping you understand what’s happening and how you can continue moving forward toward your U.S. nursing career.

Watch the Full Visa Bulletin Recap

Curious about what the October 2025 Visa Bulletin means for your immigration timeline? In this short clip, Elizabeth explains the latest movements and what you can do while you wait.

Why Was There No Change This Month?

Elizabeth McCullough, Associate Director of Immigration & Licensing at Health Carousel, shared context behind this month’s update

Here’s what’s impacting the bulletin:

• The U.S. government fiscal year began on October 1, which included a brief government shutdown related to budgeting.

• Although the Department of State manages the visa bulletin, USCIS (which processes I-140 petitions) remains operational during shutdowns, meaning your petition is still reviewed.

• Historically, date movement slows between October and December. Last year, similar patterns occurred, with noticeable movement not happening until January.

“This kind of pause in the fall months is part of how the system cycles,” Elizabeth explained. “So while it may feel stagnant, it’s really just part of a normal rhythm.”

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What This Means for You

While retrogression may delay visa issuance, it does not stop your progress entirely.

Once your I-140 is filed and received, your priority date is locked in—this determines your place in line. Even if the approval takes time, your spot is secure.

Embassy interviews and visa processing may experience minor delays, but they are still happening. Elizabeth reminded us that movement is expected to resume in early 2026, as visa allocations adjust with the new calendar quarter.

What You Can Do While You Wait Now

This waiting period is not a waste of time but preparation time. Here are a few smart ways to stay proactive:

• Build your English proficiency – Practice medical terminology, shift reports, and U.S. communication styles.

• Maintain bedside experience – Stay clinically active and confident in patient care.

• Save for your transition – Relocation includes housing, transportation, and initial expenses.

• Stay connected to your PassportUSA support team – We’re here to guide and encourage you every step of the way.

“Your moment is coming. Your priority date will become current,” said Elizabeth. “And when it does, we’ll be ready to move quickly with you.”

If you're in visa retrogression, you are not alone—and you're not off track. Thousands of nurses are in the same position, and Health Carousel’s Full Circle of Support is designed to help you stay motivated, focused, and prepared during this time.