There has been a significant advance in the February Visa Bulletin in the Employment Based Second Preference category (EB-2) for citizens of India and China.

The priority date for Indian and Chinese citizens jumped from January 1, 2009, to January 1, 2010 -- a gain of one full year. As a result, many advanced-degree professionals and national interest waiver applicants who have been waiting to file for adjustment of status or apply at a U.S. Consulate for an immigrant visa may soon be eligible to complete the process of applying for permanent residence in the U.S.

All other employment based categories saw forward movement as well, although the progress was not as dramatic.

Additional information regarding the current Visa Bulletin is available here.