October 2026 Visa Bulletin: What International Healthcare Professionals Need to Know

After much anticipation, the October 2026 Visa Bulletin has been released, bringing important updates across the EB-3 and EB-2 employment-based visa categories.

October is especially significant because it marks the first Visa Bulletin of Fiscal Year 2027. With the start of a new fiscal year, visa availability resets and Final Action Dates may move forward, retrogress, or become available again as the U.S. government manages annual employment-based immigrant visa limits.

This month brings a mix of movement across both EB-3 and EB-2 categories. Here’s what international healthcare professionals need to know.

October 2026 EB-3 Final Action Dates

• Philippines: August 15, 2023, advancing two weeks
• Rest of World: May 15, 2024, retrogressing from September 1, 2024
• India: January 1, 2014, no change
• China: January 8, 2022, advancing one week
• Mexico: May 15, 2024, retrogressing from September 1, 2024

October 2026 EB-2 Final Action Dates

• Philippines: January 1, 2025
• Rest of World: January 1, 2025
• India: November 1, 2013
• China: October 1, 2021
• Mexico: January 1, 2025

In September, the Philippines, Rest of World, and Mexico were current in EB-2. For October, each now has a Final Action Date of January 1, 2025.

India, which was unavailable in September, reopens with a Final Action Date of November 1, 2013. China also sees forward movement of one month, moving from September 1, 2021 to October 1, 2021.

What Does the October 2026 Visa Bulletin Mean for Healthcare Professionals?

The first Visa Bulletin of a new fiscal year can bring significant changes, and October 2026 demonstrates how differently visa availability can move across countries and employment-based categories.

Some applicants may see forward movement, while others may be affected by retrogression. A Final Action Date moving backward does not mean your immigration journey is over. Visa availability can change from month to month based on demand and the number of visas available.

For international healthcare professionals pursuing a career in the United States, the most important thing is to stay informed and prepared. Keeping documentation, credentials, and other requirements up to date can help you remain ready as your immigration journey progresses.

Continue Your U.S. Healthcare Journey With Support

Immigration is a journey, and Visa Bulletin changes are just one part of the process.

At Health Carousel International, our Full Circle of Support helps international healthcare professionals navigate every stage of their journey with greater confidence, from preparing for a U.S. healthcare career through the immigration process and beyond.

Ready to take the next step toward your healthcare career in the United States?

Apply today: https://www.passportusa.com/apply‍