Guide2026-08-11Updated 2026-08-111 min read
After the August EB-1 Advance, How to Sequence NIW and EB1A
EB-1 China moved to July 1, 2023 in August 2026 while EB-2 stayed at September 1, 2021. File the mature NIW to lock a date; do not premium-file a thin EB1A just because the EB-1 line moved.
After the August EB-1 Advance, How to Sequence NIW and EB1A #
Key takeaways
- Faster EB-1 dates are not EB1A merits
- NIW still locks an EB-2 priority date
- Keep a separate criteria matrix for EB1A
- Employment-based I-485 still used Chart A in August
- Status expirations outrank a one-month cutoff move
See the August bulletin. Not legal advice.
Reuse facts. Do not reuse one letter with two titles.
FAQ #
Is August the last EB-1 advance?
Unknown. September froze. Do not plan on another month of movement.
200 citations — file EB1A premium this week?
Citations are a signal. Count the actual criteria first.
Does dual filing look unprofessional?
The tests are different. Copy-paste letters look unprofessional. Dual filing itself is a strategy question.
EB-2 did not move. Pause NIW?
Usually no. The I-140 can still be filed and approved.