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H1B Visa 2017 – News, Quota, Cap, Predictions, Lottery, FAQs

If you were one of the unlucky ones not picked in whopping 233,000 H1B 2016 Lottery Applications , you might be already wondering when is the next H1B season going to start.  Also, some of you may be studying in US and some working abroad and planning to work in US next year. This page will be constantly updated with the latest details and commonly asked questions around the next upcoming H1B Visa fiscal year of 2017 season news and updates.
[alert type=”warning” close=”false” heading=”H1B Visa Cap reached for FY 2017, Lottery Done “]  On April 7th, H1B Cap for FY 2017 was reached. Lottery was done on April 9th. Read News Summary – Over 236,000 Petitions for FY2017 [/alert]

When will the H1B visa 2017 season start ? Date ?

Short answer April 1st 2016. Typically, USCIS will start to accept petitions for the next fiscal year starting from April 1st of the previous fiscal year. USCIS fiscal year is from October 1st to September 30th. So, for H1B quota of fiscal year 2017, which starts from October 1st, 2017, USCIS would typically accept applications from April 1st, 2016.  The H1B Visa 2016 season started on April 1st of 2015.  Also, in the H1B Rejected Notices of 2016, USCIS mentioned that, the non-selected candidates can file H1B petitions for FY 2017 on or after April 1st, 2016.

USCIS announced on March 16th, 2016 that they will accept FY 2017 petitions from April 1st, 2016. Read Summary of USCIS press release FY 2017 .
Also, we have written an article summarizing on What to expect in H1B FY 2017 Season 

What is H1B 2017 Cap ? What are the H1B 2017 Quota numbers ? Regular vs Masters ?
If you new to H1B, I suggest you read All about H1B Visa Cap- Regular vs Masters. In simple terms H1B cap is a congressional mandated maximum number of petitions that USCIS can accept in a year.  As of now, below are the H1B cap number for fiscal year 2017.  The below numbers are confirmed in press release by USCIS on Mar 16, 2016.

  • Regular H1B Quota : 65,000
  • H1B Master’s Degree Quota ( only US Master Degrees) : 20,000
  • Out of the above, a total of 6,800 is usually set aside for Singapore and Chile citizens as part of the free trade agreement between them.

There have been many discussions around change in H1B cap numbers by Obama administration since 2013. The planned proposal was to increase the regular quota cap to 110,000 and Masters quota to 25,000.  No changes for FY 2017, the above numbers of 65,000 and 20,000 are officially confirmed by USCIS in their press release.

What is H1B Visa 2017 Prediction? Will there be Lottery again for FY 2017

Update :  USCIS Updated on April 12th, 2016 that they have received over 236,000 petitions for FY 2017 quota and the lottery was completed on April 9th.

Looking at the past trend of H1B season in the past three years, we could very likely have lottery for FY 2017. Last year for FY 2016 quota, there were 233,000 applications. We have done a detail analysis with the H4 Visa EAD rule in place considering the economy, students graduating, OPT news, etc.  You should read  article H1B Visa 2017 Lottery Prediction News, results, Date .

If H1B lottery, will there be any preference in lottery for Large companies ? Premium Processing 
Well, no preference for anyone, all are treated equally, including premium processing. There are many such misconceptions about lottery process, we have compiled a list of such myths and criteria, you should read Myths of H1B Lottery, Criteria

When to plan for H1B visa 2017 Application ? How soon ? What should be the strategy ?
It is never too late to start planning for your H1B 2017 season. If you plan to work in US on H1B visa in the next coming fiscal year, below are some suggestions based on your situation.

  • F1 Student in USA : If you are studying on F1 visa and about to graduate in next one year, you should seriously look at finding an internship or co-op at companies that can sponsor your H1B visa. You can search for H1B Sponsors in a particular area using our H1B Sponsors Search Tool and try to get an internship to work there on CPT or OPT after you graduate. This is a strategic move and will require sometime, so plan well.
  • Professional from outside USA : If you are a working professional outside US, planning to work in US on H1B, your best bet is to find Multinational companies that have major US presence and secure a job there, so that you can position internally for applying to H1B visa, when the season starts. This is a very strategic decision, you need to carefully assess your options, speak to the company if such options exist and then only choose it.
  • Other H4, L1 Visas : If you are on these visas, your best bet is to find companies just like I mentioned for F1 students that sponsor H1B visas and start interviewing and keeping the conversation going so that you can ask them to file H1B when the season starts.

We have put together a Step by Step Plan on How to apply for H1B 2017 Quota

How do I find a H1B Visa Sponsor – The most asked million dollar question ?
If you are student in the US, it is very straight forward, you find the list of H1B Sponsoring companies using the tool in an area as I mentioned above and get an internship in one of them so that they can sponsor your H1B visa.   Unlike, if you are coming from outside US, it can be tricky.  If you work for an Multinational company ( MNC), then they will have some internal process to pick the candidates and then process H1B visa for them…The other option that has been used and abused is the consulting companies route…Many a times, the H1B aspirants approach a body shop IT consulting company to file H1B for them and they apply for the same. It gets nasty with the body shop consulting companies.  The comments on this H1B Companies Reviews article are quite eye opening. I advise, you beware of the consulting companies and avoid fraud.  Also, WE as RedBus2US do NOT provide any guidance or assistance or sponsor anything. If someone claims that, it is pure fraud and they are trying to trick you, we are not responsible for that. Please be careful. Anyways, for various other options , You may read article How to find H1B 2017 Sponsors

What is the H1B visa 2017 filing fee ? Is it same or any changes ?
It changed slightly this year with the Omnibus Bill passed in December 2015, that will increase the H1B filing fee by $4000 for FY 2017, until 2025 for certain companies that have over 50 employees and have more than 50% of their employees as H1B or L1 visa holders in USA.  Check USCIS Guidelines on H1B Fee increase. Depending on the size of the company, the H1B filing fee can vary anywhere from $1,600 USD to $7,400 USD + Attorney Fee. There are various fees components that make up this number range, for more details Read Summary of H1B Filing Fee 2017 – Who pays for What ? . Below is a high level summary. Also, one key change is that,  there was $2000 USD additional filing fee as per Public Law 111-230, this law expired on Sep 30, 2015 and that is not included anymore.

H1B Fee ComponentFee in USD
 Base filing fee$325
AICWA Fee$750  or $1,500
Fraud prevent & detection fee$500
Fee based on Public Law 114-113 ( if applicable)$4000
Premium processing fee (Optional)$1,225
Immigration Attorney FeeVaries from $500 to $3000

What about Comprehensive Immigration Reform(CIR) and Obama Executive Actions for H1B 2017 Quota Increase ? 
There has been many articles and discussions since 2013 around immigration reform by President Obama and changes around and some like below have been discussed in the last couple of years, nothing moved significantly.

  • H1B Cap to be increased from 65,000 to 110,000 per year.  Also have provisions to have it up to 180,000 in case of extreme demand.
  • Advanced degree from US cap quota to increase from 20,000 to 25,000
  • The Filing fee for H1B could go up to 10,000 USD  ( Part of this came up as the fee increase in Omnibus Bill )
  • Additional H1B rules to avoid H1B Visa fraud by employers
  • Mandatory LCA posting for 30 days before it is certified.

The current status on all of the above are basically “No updates”,  there are no set deadlines for any of them and none of these are happening for FY 2017. You may read Summary of CIR Changes to H1B . Officially as per press release on March 16, 2016, the H1B cap is confirmed to be 65,000 for regular and 20,000 for masters…hence, no changes.

What is LCA for H1B Visa ? Processing times ?
LCA is a form that has to be filed with US Dept of Labor and get it certified before filing H1B petition with USCIS. It has to be sent along with H1B Package to USCIS.  It has all the relevant information about the job position like wage, location, title, etc. It takes about 7 working days for processing of the LCA by US Dept of Labor (DOL). You can read complete details at Why is LCA Needed for H1B – Processing Time, Salary 

H1B Visa 2017 Premium Processing Time :

USCIS Updated in their original press release on March 16, 2016 that the premium processing will begin no later than May 16, 2016.  But, on April 22nd, they updated that the premium processing for FY 2017 will begin on May 12th, 2016. What it means is that the official 15 calendar day SLA for premium processing petitions will be starting from 12th.  USCIS may process the petitions early as well, but officially their clock starts on that day.

H1B 2017 Case Tracker  :
Did you apply for FY 2017 ?  We have put together a tracker along with good graphs for analysis. It is completely anonymous as we do not capture your case number or any personal information. It is community contributed data, the more you add, the better for everyone, including  You !

[prompt type=”left” title=”Track your H1B Case” message=” Anonymously Track your H1B Case – Share and Get updated from Community.” button_text=”H1B 2017 Case Tracker” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/h1b-visa-tracker/”]

Most Recent News of FY 2017 H1B
Below is the most recent news regarding H1B 2017 season. You can check the updates page as indicated below for the full history and details.

  • July 8th, 2016 ( Official ) : USCIS released a press note today indicating that they have completed returning all the petitions that were not selected in the H1B lottery for FY 2017. Read More details here 
  • May 2nd, 2016 ( Official Update ) : USCIS updated that data entry is complete for selected petitions in lottery. if you were selected, you should receive receipt notices in 2 to three weeks. If not, the chances are very slim to get selected. You should look at your plan B.  Read H1B Data Entry Complete Article for full details
  • April 22nd, 2016 : (Official Update) USCIS Updated that they will start premium processing from May 12th, instead of May 16th.
  • April 12th, 2016 – 6:30 PM EST : Official Update :  USCIS released a press note that H1B lottery was completed on April 9th and they received over 236,000 petitions for FY 2017 quota. Read Press Release Summary  
  • April 12th, 2016 – 11:50 AM CST ( Unofficial Update ) : It is reported on blog by attorney ( immigrationgirl ) that they have received about 40 email receipts of Premium Processing. What it means is that USCIS has already conducted lottery. We will keep you posted with updates. If I am not wrong, they are just drafting the press release now.

[prompt type=”left” title=”H1B 2017 – Latest News Updates” message=” Most recent and complete history of all latest breaking news updates from Official sources like USCIS and Unofficial sources for FY 2017 Season.” button_text=”Latest H1B 2017 News” href=”https://redbus2us.com/h1b-visa-2017-cap-count-updates-tracker-news/”]

When is the next H1B Season ?

The next H1B season starts on April 1st, 2017.  Wondering about your next chance for H1B and various details about the next H1B season, check out H1B Visa 2018 FAQs

Sample H1B Reject Notices for FY 2017 ?

USCIS has started to mail out the reject notices for FY 2017 petitions that were not picked in lottery. It says that the start date for next year H1B season is April 1, 2017. You can check out the Sample Reject Notice for FY 2017, Details

We have many more FAQs around H1B Visa 2017. We will continue to keep updating the page with latest news and updates regarding FY 2017. Bookmark this page and keep checking for updates.

   

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23,619 Comments

  1. hi

    I got my approval notice , but petition validity is for one year any.
    It got approved on 18th Jan , any one having similar experience ?

    Reply
    • Many people got 1 year validity. You are not alone. Extensions are always possible provided you justify the need of the position when you extend.

      Reply
  2. Query: My petition is in RFE response received status and offered salary is less than 130K. If Trump issues executive order of 130K or bill is passed then does it means that my petition will be rejected outrightly?? As it doesnt suffice necessary condition..

    Please let me know…

    Reply
    • I am also in the same boat, but my petition is approved yesterday. But the quoted salary is less than 130k. What would happen in case of an approved petition if the bill is passed. Please help

      Reply
      • Your company will need to file amendment and offer you 130k . My company has asked me to wait for sometime and not take visa dates.

        Reply
        • It is too early to discuss on these things.My Company says it may not effect current year H1B wage rules.But better wait,observe for few days and then go for stampings/travel/amendment-filings.
          This is the information I got from my employer.

          Reply
  3. Hi,
    Can somebody tell us strong convincing point to impress VO for In house project. I am doing it through small consultancy, no client letter or any project assigned so far.I am little bit worried since no client letter. Please help.
    What are the possible questions from VO if through consultancy.

    Thanks,
    Nish

    Reply
  4. Even more shocking news-

    http://profit.ndtv.com/news/tech-media-telecom/article-h-1b-visa-bill-introduced-in-us-minimum-pay-more-than-doubled-1654460

    Reply
  5. Minimum wage is proposed as $130,000. Even Mid-Senior level people are out of the race.

    http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/buzzing-stocks/infosys-tcs-fall-3-5-as-h1-b-bill-proposes-double-minimum-wage_8379301.html

    Trump is definitely not going to end anywhere!

    Reply
  6. Proposed Minimum wage is 130K…
    http://profit.ndtv.com/news/tech-media-telecom/article-h-1b-visa-bill-introduced-in-us-minimum-pay-more-than-doubled-1654460?pfrom=home-topstories

    Reply
      • Sorry dude am not into spreading rumors, but just wanted to verify with cts guys here in this forum.

        I hope this rumor is being spread deliberately from cts people (i heard from a manager of cts).

        Reply
  7. FYI,

    https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-30/trump-s-next-move-on-immigration-to-hit-closer-to-home-for-tech

    Get ready friends…

    Reply
  8. Hi Friends,

    My H1B visa Interview was on 8th November 2016 at Mumbai, end of interview I received 221g form, asked to submit softcopy of client letter. On 9th Nov I sent the client letter. Till now I haven’t received any update. I called to US visa center they are saying that one enquiry is initiated to your client and we are waiting for their response. I also confirmed with Client HR they didn’t receive any email for that. What should I do in that case?

    Thanks,
    Santanu

    Reply
    • 221GWaitingForResponse,

      Did you get any response from support@ustraveldocs regarding the same ?…even I got 221g at Mumbai, I hve sent the necessary docs and I got an email from them saying we have received your documents and started the further processing and will update you on the same.
      *I am not talking about the ackowledge email

      Reply
  9. Hi Kumar/Saurabh/Friends

    I am on H4 right now in USA, My H1B is selected in lottery and went to RFE (client letter/E2E relationship) in late October.

    My RFE is responded this week, I want to expedite the result by converting to PP.

    But my employer said converting to PP processing at this later stage will have high chances of denial.
    I greatly appreciate your comments & opinion on this.

    Reply
    • Even I wanted to reply for RFE in PP. But my employer told me to wait for at least a month and apply for PP. Mine got approved within 40 days. I applied through a consultancy, It is better if you could wait for a month or so and then apply in PP. All the Best.

      Reply
  10. Hi All,
    I had filed my L1A Individual on Jan 25th. Can you please advice will the results be published after 150 days or it will get delayed due to the H1B process starts by April?

    Reply
  11. Just came across some Leaked draft version of Executive order

    http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visa-and-immigration/future-tense-indian-techies-students-in-us-could-face-tough-times/articleshow/56862054.cms

    Not sure on what’s going to happen for people stamped and planning to travel in near future , any expert thought on this ?

    Reply
  12. Hi Admin/experts,

    I am doing payment for visa appointment and while making payment through NEFT, I want to add the beneficiary account in my Citibank account, its asking me type of account. Embassy account details are as follows.
    IFSC Code- BOFA0MM6205 Bank of America N.A.
    Unique Beneficiary Account Number – TIER*****
    Beneficiary Name – BANA MUMBAI US VISA SFA

    Can somebody please let me know the following?

    Type of account – Current or Saving?
    Type – NRE, NRO, Domestic?

    Also I am doing payment for 3 person which includes my dependents Total Fee (3 x 190 x 70.00) . Will I be getting 3 receipts or 1 receipt ? On website it is showing 3 receipts to be filled.

    I would appreciate the confirmed response, since this may result into financial loss.

    Thanks

    Reply
  13. US is messed up now, My petition is approved but i do not want to go USA.

    Which country would you guys suggest?

    I can make any where as much as i can in USA with my skills, my first priority is a piece of mind to have a good life with my life.

    I am thinking of Denmark or Norway, what do you guys think about these choices?

    Tx Guys, Piece out

    Reply
  14. Hi,

    I am appearing for H1B visa interview along with my dependents. For my in DS160 US point of Contact, I have entered my Petitioner details.

    But for my dependents DS260 in US point of contact, what should I mention.

    Please help me.

    Reply
      • My answer is “friend referred me”. It could be different in your case. My suggestion is whatever the reason might be, You should do some due-diligence on what probable questions might arise if you answer in that way.

        Reply
  15. Hi All,

    I hope everyone is happy with their H1B visa. I have one question. My case was approved on 24th Oct and waiting for stamping and documents from employer. any idea how long will take after get approval to get documents .

    Reply
  16. My H1B case status is changed to

    ‘Notice Explaining USCIS’ Actions Was Mailed

    On Jan XX, 2017, we began reviewing your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WACXXXXXXXXXX. We mailed you a notice informing you of the action we intend to take on your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice and submit any requested materials. If you do not receive your notice by jan XX , 2017, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

    Could this be RFE ? Please help me out understanding the meaning.

    Please note ,‘Case Was Received’ was earlier case status .

    Reply
    • This is an NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny). Kind of a severe RFE. Sometimes there have been cases of NOID turning into Approvals in immigrant visa applications (like I-140 in GC processing).

      You and your employer still have chances to convince USCIS to approve the petition, assuming your employer is not one of the bodyshop consultancies.

      Reply
  17. Now Consulate issue more number of 221g for visa stamping. I heard this news from one of my US friend. I am going to interview on Feb 1
    Is it true?

    Reply
  18. Hi, My H1B got approved from consultancy. I am planning for visa stamping soon.

    Is it fine if I appear for stamping along with my dependents.

    Or should I appear first and then my dependents.

    Please suggest which is preferred.

    Reply
    • IF money is not a concern better to attend the interview with the dependents. the chances of approvals are more i heard. but ur dependents also will be asked some questions by VO. take care
      Good Luck

      Reply
  19. Hi All,

    I am very much pleased to inform you that, after a long wait I saw the golden words” Case was Approved” on Jan 26th. Here are the details.

    Service Center: Vermont
    Case picked in lottery: April 11th
    RFE: Oct 25th
    Response to RFE received: Jan 19th
    Case was Approved: Jan 26th. ( converted to premium after RFE).

    Good luck to all ?

    Reply
  20. Thank you team Redbus and all the followers!
    This platform is of great help to all those who ate seeking an entry to the USA via H1b visa.
    When we ser all go throught the same restlessness and worry, we know we aint alone.
    My H1b visa got approved on Dec 17th 2016. The time line of the long wait is as follows :

    Date of application : 11th April 2016
    Rfe received : 28th Sept 2016
    Rfe response sent : 23rd Nov2016
    Rfe response recieved : 30th Nov2016
    Case approved : 17th Dec 2016

    Interview date : 7th February. .

    shall update post my interview.

    All the best to those who are still awaiting their approval! Have faith, you shall get throught.

    Reply
  21. H1B Visa Salary Certified Certified-Withdrawn(?) Denied Withdrawn
    2016 $101,767 4 44 0 1
    2015 $104,462 75 6 0 0
    http://www.myvisajobs.com/Visa-Sponsor/Azmetry/1117456.htm

    what does it mean by Certified-Withdrawn(44) from the portal myvisajobs.com about this company?
    So if it’s withdrawn, then USCIS will return the money paid for the application? can someone plz explain?
    I think new H1B filers for 2018 should look the data about their company at myvisajobs site?

    Reply
    • Typically, a company will withdraw an H-1B petition when either the employee has been terminated, or the the employee has left the company. The process involves two steps. First, the Labor Condition Application is withdrawn — this step goes through the Department of Labor. Second, the company contacts United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, alerts them that the LCA has been withdrawn, and requests that the H-1B petition be withdrawn as well. Then, USCIS acknowledges receipt of the request and confirms that the H-1B petition has been withdrawn. The language USCIS provides is “the petition is automatically revoked as of the date of this notice because … the petitioner/employee has filed a written withdrawal of the petition.” There will be no refund of money of any sorts.

      Reply
      • Thanks for your reply. I have some more questions related to this..

        So employee or employer filing withdrawal of the petition meaning– is it related to transfer of the company or switching from one to another company after H1B approval? does it mean withdrawal can be done only after moving to US or if the H1B petition is in RFE response received for longtime, can employer withdraw an application without getting a refund? if a company has a lot of withdrawal’s last year, then how should we attribute it to this years H1B approval rate?

        Reply
        • Withdrawing a case can be done at any point of time or at any stage of H1B visa processing. No matter where the applicant is, the petition can be withdrawn. Kindly note that only employer can withdraw the petition. When you are withdrawing the application, there will be no refund of fees no matter at what stage it is getting withdrawn. I don’t think there is any relation between withdrawal and approval rate. Withdrawal is just a process to notify USCIS that I am not going to use this petition.

          Reply
    • Budy,

      Please don’t ask such silly questions here, This blog has a purpose..

      Answer to your question, US consulate provide any parking space for your vehicle. It’s clearly given in your interview slot booking page..

      Reply
  22. Hello All,

    Is it possible to go for stamping on the current Approved petition even if that position is not longer available. Later amendment will be filed before travel

    Reply
      • If you are from Big MNC…then you can go…VO wont ask for any client specific letters unless you have applied through any consultancy….I went ahead with my approved petition and got it stamped even though my project ended in 31st Dec…I was from Big MNC…Now I would apply for amendment..Hope this helps.

        Reply
        • Answer.

          Thanks. Is it that the person can travel with just the receipt of the Amended petition?

          Any idea how long it takes to receive the receipt and does it depend on the mode of filing

          Reply
          • @ Question :

            As per the information that I have from my GIT Team….One can travel with Amendment Receipt…LCA…along with other valid client documents…It usually takes 8 to 10 days to get the Amendment Receipt once the filling is done…I don’t think so that timeline to receive receipt depends on mode of filling…

            Note : This information is based on discussion with my organization GIT Team…So the Timelines may differ…

        • @Answer-

          Could you please let me know when did you give your visa interview. Even i’m from Big MNC, i have visa interview on tuesday, today evening our visa cell told me to carry client letter for the interview. Other than client letter I have PO, SOW, MSA everything with me. To get client letter it would take a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks again. Let me know if they asking client letter ? Also, it would be helpful if you post the questions.

          Thanks.

          Reply
        • Yo Bro,

          Even if you got a job in silicon valley, VO can ask for client letter.. You are just a lucky guy got through, Don’t put that credit on your company name and misguide others.

          VO can ask any document if they want. for me they asked 13 questions and asked for client letter, Job roles & responsibilities docs, By the way I work US captive company…

          Reply
          • Hello Praram,

            I am from Big MNC (Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini). When I asked my GI team, they told me the Client letter is not required for these companies.

            Big MNC file H1 as part of strategic hire and they show the Project but in LCA they provide Accenture Office address only. One the Visa is approved they file the LCA amendment before travel.

            So i went for interview without Client letter and got approval.

            I guess your understanding is wrong. Company and Brand name does matters.

            Regards,
            Param’s Helper

      • Thanks. Is it that the person can travel with just the receipt of the Amended petition?

        Any idea how long it takes to receive the receipt and does it depend on the mode of filing

        Reply
  23. Hello All,

    My Petition got approved from Dec 16 2016 to Nov 16 2019. When does my 6 year clock start.. Is it after I step into the US with the I-94 or it has already been started from December 16 2016. Please confirm.

    Reply
  24. H1B applied: March 2016
    Lottery picked: April 2016
    RFE: October 4th, 2016
    Reply to RFE: Dec 28th, 2016
    Denied: January 25th, 2017
    Worst decision of my life : to apply H1B
    Thank you all.
    Bye.

    Reply
      • If thats the case then, USCIS should not let the application be selected in the lottery.
        Then why send RFE?
        Why waste our valuable time.
        “SICK” USCIS their policies and processes.

        Reply
        • So you mean to say that USCIS should validate each filing company and select petitions in lottery only if the company is legit, and approve every single selected petition?? You should seriously get some life.
          It is your (and similar minded people) sick mentality. If you cannot prove your relationship with the client that needs you, then how on earth you expect USCIS to approve the petition?

          Reply
          • They took 10 months to deny an application?
            What nonsense!
            Your sick mind and that of USCIS suits well.
            Youself and USCIS should get some life.

    • Hi Friend,

      I am also in same ship. I also got denied. The reason is the job offered to me is doesnot required any skilled person.

      May I know your reason.

      Reply
      • Hi all,
        Please dont trust pvk corporation(http://www.pvkc.com/), its a fraud consultancy ,filing h1bs with fake projects and documents and collecting lot of money from h1b aspirants. you dont get H1B from this .
        This consultancy should be blocked.

        Reply
  25. We are currently residing in a GULF country, but our hometown is CHENNAI, is it mandatory to hv the consular interview only in the country of permanent residence? R there any drawbacks of attending the same in a GULF country

    Reply
  26. Hi, I can see that in EAC16142 series, there are more than 15 petitions got withdrawn on a single day(Jan 25).

    Anybody has info about this bulk withdrawal?

    Thanks
    Raj

    Reply
    • If this is related to the data from Worktheme website then its just due to some changes in script for filtering out the withdrawn cases.

      Reply
  27. CASE WAS RECEIVED STATE since APRIL 2016:

    What is the reason behind keeping so many cases as “Case Was Received” ?

    This is biggest concern people on this state .. as it is 10-11 Months … we should really worried on this.

    Did we have this kind of case in the past year? Now we are overlappinng with 2017 timeframe !!!

    Some one can add your thoughts here. Thanks.

    Reply
    • I am also on the same boat mate. We just have to wait, and wait patiently.
      I don’t think there are any definitive reasons behind the delay, at least no official comments on them.
      From all that I have read on different forums and discussing with friends, what I understand is, this year the document verification and background check seem to be very strict and stringent and that is causing the delay. I am not sure about this, but this is my understanding.

      And I don’t think there is any need to be worried. It is just taking time, that is all. Let us hope for the best.

      Reply
  28. Hello All,

    Thank you for giving timely updates and guidance. Here is my case details:

    Service Center: California
    Processing: Normal
    Picked in lottery: Apr 17, 2016, got update in May
    RFE: Oct 3, 2016
    Response to RFE: Dec 23, 2016
    Case Approved: Jan 23, 2017

    RFE included lot of things:

    1) Right to Control – Employer-Employee Relationship
    2) Specialty Occupation
    3) Translation of college degree

    My employer and attorney took care of this and case is approved. Now the next and most important step: Visa Stamping. Suggestions and Inputs are welcome.

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Congrats SW,
      Wish you all success!

      I am waiting for my approvals after RFE resp rec by USCIS on 9th Jan. Its EAC regular. Any clues on when can it be expected?

      Thanks
      Raj

      Reply
  29. 1 small product company applied for my h1. Due to rfe approval came late and by that time company hired someone available in US. They are asking me to go for stamping but travel will.be delayed unless they start new project after few months. Meanwhile a big US product company interviewed me and agreed for h1 transfer. I want to understand what could be risk here.

    Reply
    • It is easier to transfer after getting the initial stamping.
      The only difference is a little more questions at your visa stamping and possibly little more stringent document evaluation

      Reply
  30. Hi All,

    My H1b is approved but my employer is not looking for any opportunity. Shall i try to push and get the stamping done on current petition

    Reply
  31. Hi H1B Experts,

    Currently I am on H4 and has my H1B approved. My Employer said once we find job, we can go for COS. Also, he shared my approval notice I797C.

    My question is
    1. Only after COS, i will be receiving I797B?
    2. Only after COS, do i need to apply for SSN?

    Thanks in advance!!!

    Reply
  32. Hi,

    Now trump has become the pres . So what will be the situation of current h1 awaiters like the ones with case received and response for evidence received status . What would be the outcome like all these cases get approved ??

    Thx
    OneH1Guy

    Reply
  33. Hi All .

    more than 90 days still my application status showing the below message .

    Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Was Received
    On October 21, 2016, we received your response to our Request for Evidence for your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC161475****. Our California Service Center office will begin working on your case again. We will mail you a decision or notify you if we need something from you. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

    I got RFE for employee -employer relation .

    I already posted this same message twice but no one replaying me to move out this situation .
    some folks are responding only for approval and declined messages not for my post .please please some one give me suggestions what to do .

    Reply
    • Hello Bala S Singh,

      I got my approval on 17th jan after 4 months of waiting…. RFE received state on 9th sep…so, have patience….till you get approval .

      Reply
      • First of all thank you very much for replying my post .

        And coming to my employer is one of the reputed MNC in USA .

        I cleared 5 rounds of interview from India over Skype .

        I got only offer latter from their side ,they told me once my H1b got approved that time only I am totally their employee.

        After H1b Approve -to Join their organization I need to serve my notice period in my current organization .

        Reply
  34. Hi friends,

    I had gone through H1B interview on Jan-20 at Mumbai and got 221g slip asking for client documents via email. I have asked my employer to forward the required documents to email provided in the 221g slip. The interviewer took my end client letter and returned all other documents including my passport.

    Now my question here is,

    I will be travelling to another country in the meantime and may not come back to India for a year or so.

    1. If my petition gets approved and US consulate asks to submit my passport for stamping, how can I send the passport for stamping?
    2. Is there any timeline before which we need to submit passport to consulate?

    Your help is much appreciated.

    Reply
    • I have my Visa Interview scheduled in coming week . I have applied thru a Consultancy and not holding client letter. Could you please elaborate your experience at Mumabi Conulate.

      Reply
  35. Hi saurabh/kumar,

    Can you guy’s pleasw put some light on H1b’s future in trumps America.
    Its tough to predict any thing as of now but what restrictions you guys expect to follow and how much time it can take.
    One is minimum pay of 100k which shouldn’t impact much other is stopping non Ms guys from applying h1b which is going to be a deal breaker for many.
    I have a validity of just a year and a good job here to loose in india kindly advise.

    Reply
  36. Hi , Currently am on H4 visa and residing in USA, and my H1B go approved for last week, Which one will be good option for start searching a job and visa conversions from below
    1) apply for a COS from H4 to H1b
    2) exit the country and back to the india and have a visa stamping and enter on H1b
    3) apply for a COS from H4 to H1b on a premium basis.

    regards,
    Kk

    Reply
      • Currently am on H4 so i cant do a job untill my status got changes to H1, which can be done after my H1B visa stamping process, so am looking for a suggestions wether to have a COS on premium basis with out exiting the country or Exiting the country and have a Visa stamping done and enter the country and start looking for a job. ?

        Kk

        Reply
        • Since you are already in the US, its better to look for a job and then get the COS done in premium (so that you can join the work sooner).

          Reply
          • yes stuck for client letters for any job openings to file COS, and the client letter will not come without any proper Working status like H1 orH4 EAD 🙁 . Any help please

  37. Hi Frnds,

    I have received from my employer that my H1B status was approved in first week of Jan 2017 and they said we are waiting for documents once we receive we will get back to you.

    Till now I have not received any communication from my employer and I don’t have single details like CAP number also.

    Please let me know after approved howmany days it takes to get documents?

    Thanks and regards

    Reply
  38. Hello Everyone,

    Congrats to those Lucky ones who got Approval and stamped.

    I would like to share my case (Regular process) information,

    1) 11th Apr 2016- > We received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
    2) 29th Sep 2016 –> Got REF on Education related.
    3) 15th Now 2016–> My Employer got replied it.
    4) 21st Nov 3016–> Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Was Received

    Still, my case is not yet approved. I am loosing confident day by day.
    Is there any chance to approve?
    How long will take to approve my petition?
    Please advise me what to do next.

    Thanks,
    TC

    Reply
  39. Dear All,

    Thanks a lot for the regular updates about the process and all procedures on this Portal….!!!!

    I would like to share my journey of my case as mentioned below.,..
    01.04.16 – H1B Application done.
    11.04.16 – Case got selected in lottery.
    20.09.16 – Got RFE.
    30.12/16 – RFE response recvd to USCIS.
    20.01.17 – Got my Case approved.

    Thanks a lot to all the concern members who have participated in this portal during this journey.

    Please advise the next procedures to be followed now for getting VISA stamped and to fly.

    Regards.

    Reply
  40. Hi ,
    I am working with “AAA” when My H1b application picked. Recently, I moved to anther ” BBB” company. Is it required to update H1b Application?
    Please help me regarding this one.
    Thanks,
    K1985

    Reply
  41. Hi Everyone,

    Congrats to those Lucky ones who got Approval and stamped..

    Need your advise on my below Status:

    11-APL-2016 Lottery Picked
    16-JUN-2016 Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Mailed
    05-SEP-2016 Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Submitted
    12-SEP-2016 Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Was Received

    Since then below status:

    On September 12, 2016, we received your response to our Request for Evidence for your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC1614XXXXXX. Our Vermont Service Center office will begin working on your case again. We will mail you a decision or notify you if we need something from you.

    Its been 130 Days so far lastly updated. All others who have submitted RFE Documents in last 30 days have got Approval notice from my Employer not sure why so much delay. Please advise me on how to proceed or is there anyone else who is in similar situation.

    Thanks,
    Prnka

    Reply

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