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🇵🇭 US Immigration Guide for Philippines Nationals (2026)

Visa options, green card priority date backlogs, processing times, and common challenges for Philippines nationals immigrating to the United States.

⚠️ Immigration data changes frequently. Processing times and visa availability vary. Consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Most Common Visa Paths for Philippines Nationals

Option 1
H-1B
Option 2
EB-3
Option 3
F-1
Option 4
H-2B
Option 5
IR-1

Backlog & Wait Times for Philippines

Priority Date Backlog
Significant

EB-3 and family categories face long waits. Strong in healthcare/nursing (EB-3 Schedule A). IR/CR immediate relative category is fastest.

Visa Bulletin Priority Dates — Philippines

CategoryChargeabilityFinal Action DateFiling DateBulletin
EB-1 Philippines C C March 2026
EB-2 Philippines 01JAN2022 01MAR2022 March 2026
EB-3 Philippines 01JAN2019 01MAR2019 March 2026
F-1 Philippines 01JAN2018 01MAR2018 March 2026
F-2A Philippines C C March 2026
F-2B Philippines 01MAY2013 01JUL2013 March 2026
F-3 Philippines 01FEB2002 01APR2002 March 2026
F-4 Philippines 01MAY2001 01JUL2001 March 2026
EB-1 Philippines C C April 2026 2026
EB-2 Philippines C C April 2026 2026
EB-3 Philippines 2022-03-22 C April 2026 2026
F1 Philippines 2013-04-01 2013-07-01 April 2026 2026
F2B Philippines 2015-07-01 2015-10-01 April 2026 2026
F3 Philippines 2004-04-01 2004-07-01 April 2026 2026
F4 Philippines 2003-10-01 2004-01-01 April 2026 2026

Source: US Department of State Visa Bulletin. "Current" = no backlog.

H-1B Approval Rates (Most Popular)

YearPetitions FiledApproval Rate
2024 320,000 8500.0%
2024 460,000 9300.0%
2024 780,000 1090.0%

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best visa for Philippines nationals?
The most common visa paths for Philippines nationals are: H-1B, EB-3, F-1, H-2B, IR-1. The best choice depends on your education, employer, and long-term goals.
How long is the green card wait for Philippines nationals?
Green card wait times for Philippines nationals vary: Significant. EB-3 and family categories face long waits. Strong in healthcare/nursing (EB-3 Schedule A). IR/CR immediate relative category is fastest.
Can Philippines nationals apply for H-1B?
Yes, Philippines nationals can apply for H-1B visas through employer sponsorship. The annual lottery (85,000 cap) applies to all nationalities equally. There is no per-country limit for H-1B nonimmigrant status.