Home » US Immigration - Visas » H1B Visa » H1B Visa 2017 – News, Quota, Cap, Predictions, Lottery, FAQs

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.

   

Other Articles

23,619 Comments

  1. Hi Saurabh, Experts,

    My LCA document says my Job Title and Job Category as,

    Job Title:TECHNICAL CONSULTANT
    SOC (ONET/OES) code:15-1132
    SOC (ONET/OES) occupation title:SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS, APPLICATIONS

    I have 15+ years of experience.

    Do I have any issue with recent USCIS policy or I am fine here. Please need your comments
    Thanks in advance

    Reply
  2. Most of Us who are waiting and whose case is still in “Case Was Received” will complete ONE WHOLE YEAR of WAITING by TOMORROW! for FY-2017

    Not sure how far this wait continues …

    What you say ?

    Reply
  3. Hi saurabh and all

    Please help me asap.

    My h1b got approved and stamped on company A (sponcered company) now my present employer is interested to send from there end (present company).

    Please help me to know procs and cons I am intrested to go with present company.

    Reply
  4. Hi sourab, viewers ,

    I got new h1b stamping in March 2017 and would like to travel US in June first week.
    My role is programmer analyst and I have 10 years of experience .

    Will there be any issues in travelling and POE?
    Kindly share experience .
    Thanks

    Reply
    • ACB,

      Its better if your attorney reviews your profile and LCA and comment on this. My advice on your particular case won’t be as informed as theirs.

      Reply
  5. Thanks saurabh.

    One more question, with current H1B I stayed 1year in USA. If I get dinial on extension then I’m I going to loose remaining 5 years validity or I can apply on cap exempt next year.

    Also if current H1B extension RFE approved as I-94 expired do I need to go for stamping if I visit India.

    Reply
    • Kora,

      You have already been counted in the cap. If extension is denied, you can still opt for cap-exempt petition from same/different employer in future.

      Reply
  6. Hello Saurabh,

    I’m on H1B and recently submitted RFE on extension. can you tell me whether i need to start immediately from USA to India if H1B RFE rejects or do i have any other options to stay back like by MTR file or etc..

    Please suggest list of options to stay back.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Kora,

      If it is denied and your I-94 has expired then you will have to leave US ASAP. Filing MTR doesn’t provide you temporary extension to stay inside US.

      Reply
  7. Hi Saurabh

    My H1B petition denied today, The online status says ‘Decision Notice Mailed’

    My case got upgraded to premium after 60 days of RFE response and on 15th day it got denied.

    Will my employer get Denial Notice in EMAIL with Reason for denial or I have to wait until we get the Notice in Regular Mail?

    Thanks

    Reply
  8. Hello Saurabh/Kumar,

    Hope you are doing well.

    My case was approved on Nov 9th’2016. However I have not received approval notice from my employer yet. When asked for same, I was told that they need some more time as they are in process to take care of all required documentation in order to ensure smooth process at stamping and port of entry due to new president administration. I am not sure what’s going on, I feel it’s too late as it’s been 5 months since my case got approved. Could you please answer my questions below?

    1. What exactly I should ask my employer at this point of time to proceed further?
    2. In what cases, amendment is applicable?
    3. How to know the validity of my approval? I only have my case number with me.
    4. I am afraid as my employer is not responding properly and what could be the possible difficulties I need to face if my employer continues to delay the process? I am feeling helpless.
    5. Could you please suggest any alternate way that I can look into to proceed further?

    Thank you very much in advance!!

    Regards,
    Rashmi

    Reply
    • Rashmi_Need_Help_Urgently,

      1. It is employer’s call when they want to call you to US. Looks like employer doesn’t have any active job for you right now and hence delaying the stamping. As a last resort you can decide to move to another employer.
      2. Amendment for what?
      3. You can only know the validity period from approved petition.
      4,5. Try to find a new employer and file H-1 cap-exempt (H-1 transfer) through them. Submit receipt number and print out of online status showing it as approved. When USCIS reviews the transfer petition, they can easily determine from their system that the petition is yours and approved.

      Reply
      • Thank you for the quick response.
        1. Should I need any approval from my current employer for h-1 transfer or h-1 cap-exempt filing?
        2. How long it may take if I opt for h-1 cap-exempt filing through different employer?
        3. Should h-1 cap-exempt filed before the approved petition expiry date? If yes then should I ask my employer for expiry date and tell them that I am opting for cap-exempt upfront?

        Reply
        • I think you are little late here. Since PP is suspended as of now, nobody knows how much time it will take for transfer. You don’t need any approval from your employer. Only find some genuine new employer who is ready to transfer .

          Reply
        • Hi Rashmi,

          You don’t require any approval from your current employer for transfer. In current scenario, a transfer might take 6-8months as premium processing is suspended for next 6 months.

          Reply
    • If your employer is a consultant who shared only the receipt number, there are chances for him to cheat you.

      Ask him the I129 he filed. Also ask at least to send a copy of I797 to see your name.

      Otherwise, your chances are less.

      Reply
  9. Hi Saurabh

    My H1 transfer Petition is submitted in premium on march 31st.

    The receipt email says Date Received as 03/31/2017.

    But the online case status says on April 6th we received your…

    Please clarify, From which date premium clock gets started?

    March 31st or April 6th ?

    Reply
  10. Hi Admin

    Still my status is”Case Was Received” since 11 April 2016.
    Should I have any hope as it has been almost a year.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Admin,
      Even my case is in CASE WAS RECEIVED status since starting.
      I checked with my employer and they said they have attorney to check and the process is on and there is no issue.
      Not sure what is happening

      Reply
      • Rahul,

        It would have been better had they upgraded to PP when that was an option. That would have forced USCIS hand to timebox the process. You can only rely on what your employer/attorney are telling you. If they followed-up w/ USCIS and are satisfied with the response provided, then there is nothing you can do.

        Reply
  11. Dear Saurabh, Kumar,friends, Experts,

    I need your help on how this one year gap is calculated when candidate moves out of USA?
    There is law that one can get a fresh 6 years work permit including extenstion (3 + 3 years extension) when a person moves out of USA physically and re-enters.
    Say in my case, I was in USA (on L1) and filed my H1B application for FY-2017 and it was received by USCIS on 12-April-2016 (Still processing is going on).
    I moved out of USA (came to my motherland) on 03-May-2016.
    I will complete one year physically outside of USA by 03-May-2017.
    So, Will I be eligible to get fresh 6 years if I travel after 03-May-2017 or 12th-April-2016?

    Kindly help me here. Thanks in advance.
    -Ajay

    Reply
    • One_Year_gap_for_Six_year_fresh_Work_Permit,

      The clock is reset after you have stayed outside US for more than 1 year and then apply for a new visa (H-1 in your case). So had you completed 1 year of stay outside US by April 1, 2016, only then your clock would have been reset.

      Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,
        Thanks for your quick reply.
        Since I came back to India on 03-May-2016 and complete one year on 03-May-2017. My H1B applicaytion was applied when I was in USA only.

        You are saying that, The candidate should come ouutside USA and apply application and wait for one year, then only he will get fresh six years?
        If you application is submitted when you are in USA , that will not consider? Thanks

        Thanks

        Reply
        • One_Year_gap_for_Six_year_fresh_Work_Permit,

          The person should leave US, complete 1 year outside US by April 1, and then apply for a cap-subject H-1 in order to reset the clock and get new 6 year H-1 term.

          Your clock is not reset. If your employer is willing to apply GC for you, then you can get 7th year extension and beyond.

          Reply
  12. April 14 2016 – Picked in Lottery

    Aug 23 2016 – got status as RFE

    Dec 07 2016 – status updated as: Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Was Received

    California service center is processing my case

    Can anyone pls tell me how much time do i need to wait for the response.

    Reply
  13. My H1B visa got stamped for other place and now they have filed an amendment for other place in regular processing,it’s just for location change. I would like to know how long will it take to get receipt notice in regular processing? Pls write your thought on this.

    Reply
  14. Hi saura,

    I have 13 yrs of exp and my job title is “computer system Analyst” and salary is around 1 lakh/annum. Will i have any impact after this new rule new rule impact?.

    Reply
    • H1b_13yrs Exp,

      On the face of it, looks like you should be ok. Always a good idea to check w/ attorney who can review the specific case more closely.

      Reply
  15. Hi Saurabh,
    My Job Title is Programmer Analyst-2 and Job category is “Computer programmers”. I have around 11 yrs of exp and salary would be at wage
    LEVEL -II (around 100k) Will i have any impact at the POE after this new rule ? Is there any additional supportive documentations needed at the POE ? Since my travel is immediate , your immediate inputs is highly appreciated.

    Reply
    • H1B_New_Rule-URGENT,

      Based upon your salary and experience, it should be fine. Still better to check with your attorney who can review the case more closely and advice.

      Reply
      • You mean with the current scenario travel is at risk before getting assessed by the Attorney ? I am afraid right now since my tickets are blocked and my employer also has given green signal advising no impact. If i need to wait for the immigration advice my travel plans will be postponed. Fingers crossed. Kindly advice the Risk factor.

        Reply
        • H1B_New_Rule-URGENT,

          I am saying talk to your employer/attorney about your specific case. At the face of it you look fine, but your attorney is in a better position to access.

          Reply
  16. Hi Saurabh,
    My Petition is approved for “Software Developer(9Y Experience)”
    I talked to my petitioner,he says new rule not applicable for 2017 petitions and nothing to worry for your case,relax.
    I’m planning to go for stamping by April mid.
    Is my petitioner correct here?Please suggest me.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • H1B2017,

      You should be ok. It doesn’t impact already approved petitions but they would be impacted when they are amended or extended etc (assuming with same SOC code). Although the memo is for USCIS officers, it is not known at this time whether consulate and/or CBP will also start looking at this or not.

      Reply
  17. Hi Saurabh/Any one in this group
    My visa got approved and stamped last week. I just want to clarify myself regarding the recent rule on h1b that they do not allow Computer Programmer with entry level.Can you please clarify the below questions.
    1) My visa got stamed as a Programmer Analyst.Can i have any issues?
    2) What do you mean by Computer Programmer with Entry level?
    Thanks,
    clarification

    Reply
    • Calrification,

      Check your LCA SOC code. From what I gathered from DOL site is that Computer Programmer is 15-1131.

      Get in touch with your attorney if you think you are impacted.

      Reply
        • Clarification,

          If you are an entry level computer programmer with less experience and/or salary, its better to get the case reviewed by your attorney. They would be in a better position to review the case.

          Reply
          • Hi Saurabh,
            Thank you very much for your quick reply. I have 6+years of experience (Programmer Analyst) and stamped. Can I have any impact? I’m extremely sorry to ask you again.
            Thanks,
            Clarification

          • Clarification,

            Like I said, your attorney is in a better position to review the case. At the face of it, you look fine.

      • My job title is computer programmer with code 15-1131 with 10+ year exp my visa stamping is done .do I get any probs

        Reply
    • Did you get any response ? I have stamped H1B with the LCA SOC code : 15-1131(computer programmer) and travel planned in couple of weeks. Not sure if I can travel after the new H1B rule. Please confirm.

      Reply
  18. Saurabh/Kumar,

    –>My petition was filed in April 2015
    –>Got an RFE on August 2015(Specialty Occupation and Educational Document)
    –> RFE was responded in Nov
    –> Approved in Feb and got I797
    –> Visa approved in March 2016( Valid till 2018)
    –>April 2016- Amendment Filed for location change.
    –>May 2016 Amendment petition was approved.
    –> Traveled in July 2016
    –> Now, in Dec 2016 Got an RFE on the initial petition asking the same document that i responded earlier.
    –> Initial case is showing in RFE but the amendment case is showing as approved.
    –> Responded the RFE since last 4 months but the status is same as “We receive you document”

    Now questions,

    –>What will happen if my earlier case gets denied.
    –> Am I living here in US legally? though I have I94 and Visa valid till 2018and yes I am living at the same place for where i have an approved petition(amndnt)
    –> In what scenarios this happens?
    –>What can be happen if i travel to India this time, would there be an issue at immigration while returning back to US?

    Eagerly waiting for your answers, Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • RFE in US,

      –>What will happen if my earlier case gets denied.
      I am not sure as you also have an approved amendment. You attorney would be in a better position to respond.

      –> Am I living here in US legally? though I have I94 and Visa valid till 2018and yes I am living at the same place for where i have an approved petition(amndnt)
      You are not in US illegally as you have a valid I-94 and 797. If the original petition gets declined, then you should check w/ attorney.

      –> In what scenarios this happens?
      Maybe they discovered something later after approving the petition. Do you know if there are other H-1 employees under this employer, and if their petitions have also been reopened?

      –>What can be happen if i travel to India this time, would there be an issue at immigration while returning back to US?
      There could be. If you do have to travel, then check w/ your attorney.

      Reply
  19. Hi,
    I was in L1B for 4 years then moved to H1 (consular processing) for 2 years in the same company. I need to go back to India (6 years of max stay).No GC applied. After one year Can I apply H1B with Cap exempt to use remaining 4 years of H1B.

    Thanks
    Ram

    Reply
    • Ram,

      After one year you have to go through the cap again in order for the clock to be reset. If you file cap-exempt, then clock is not reset.

      Reply
  20. Hi shaurab,

    I had submitted my 221g docs via email to Chennai consulate on 18th March and immediately I received automated reply from the help desk. But no changes in CEAC website. Today again I received an email from Chennai consulate stating that

    “Thank you for the email. This is to inform you that your case is still in administrative process. Upon completion of the process, we would certainly communicate with you.”

    What doe this means? Now only did they received my email or they had started to work on my case? No change in CEAC website after that email

    Reply
    • 221g,

      The processing is like a black box. It is not possible to know if what’s the current processing stage. As long as they have received the documents, they will pick-up and process the case when it turn arrives. Nothing you can do except to wait.

      Reply
  21. Hi Saurabh,

    Lets say, A person is holding valid H1B stamped visa(Selected in 2015 H1B lottery) but due to some reason that person could not traveled and his/her visa got expired last year(Oct 2016). Now company again filled an amendment with extension (As earlier it was for another location) in PP (USCIS acknowledged the case on 29th march).

    Does this latest news about H1B is going to affect those candidates as well?

    Reply
  22. @ Saurabh
    I have got Visa with Computer programmers tittle
    As per new Visa guideline does it create any issue while travelling or during Visa extension

    Reply
    • Query_Computer Programmer,

      I don’t think travel will be impacted if you already have the visa (but who knows how the CBP interprets this). Extension would definitely be impacted if the title is Computer Programmer and that too entry level.

      When applying for extension, employer has to file new LCA/I-129. At that time, they can select a different SOC job code.

      Reply
    • H1Question,

      The memorandum was specific about Computer Programmer position. However, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to check w/ your attorney. In any case, it is too late to make any changes now.

      Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,
        What do you mean by computer programmer (Entry Level)?.The reason , i’m asking you that H1b is filled for experienced persons only right?. My company filled the H1b with programmer Analyst and visa approved last week.
        Thanks,
        Clarification

        Reply
  23. Programmers read this

    https://www.axios.com/computer-programmers-may-no-longer-be-eligible-for-h-1b-visas-2342531251.html?utm_medium=linkshare&utm_campaign=organic

    Reply
    • Relaxed,

      My interpretation is that instead of Computer Programmer job, the companies will have to use Software Developer etc as job category. This would require a higher pay, maybe more experience as well.

      May impact some who had their LCAs and I-129s filed as Computer Programmer.

      Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,
        My Petition is Approved,but not yet stamped.
        Is this rule applicable to previously approved one’s or For Fiscal Year 2018 onwards?
        Can you please add your opinion here?

        Thanks

        Reply
        • H1B,

          The rule was provided to USCIS officers while the visa stamping is handled by the State Department. Nothing to indicate they would share the information or not.

          Was your petition filed as Computer Programmer?

          Reply
          • Hi Saurabh,
            My petition was approved for”Software Developer” position last month but not yet stamped.
            But,since it this is also a Entry level position,I’m bit worried to go for stamping now.(as I read entry level positions will be scrutinised more from 2018 Fiscal Year)

          • H1B,

            Although stamping is handled by State Department and not USCIS, this may still impact the outcome of stamping. They may issue 221g and send the petition back to USCIS for reconsideration.

            It would be better to get the petition reviewed by your attorney before appearing for stamping.

  24. when will they start the premium processing again? How much time delay is happening if we file Change LCA in normal processing?

    Reply
    • There is no info on when the premium processing would start again. If it’s LCA it will come in 7 days.. if you are referring to H1B transfer or Amendment, it would take maximum of 240 days.

      Reply
  25. Approved H1B on 16 March… I-797 documents still have not arrived at either my attorney or employer. Should I be concerned?

    Reply
      • It would be sent to Attorney or Employer only. You can ask your attorney to raise a request to resend the approval notice, if the deadline date mentioned in case status page has crossed.

        Reply
  26. @Saurabh I see even TCS,infosys,Wipro,CTS all are filing in very less
    numbers do you still think filing count will be similar to last year ?

    Reply
    • H1Question,

      I don’t know what to expect this year. There are additional factors at play this year, which could turn the tide either way.

      Reply
    • Varsha,

      So you have your H-1 visa filed and under process and meanwhile want to travel to US, correct? What visa do you want to travel on?

      Reply
  27. Re posting my query 3rd time. Pls reply.

    Dear Saurabh,

    Required urgent help (EAC14550)

    My case was referred in Oct 2016 and my employer has submitted documents on Jan 2017.
    As per my employer, on 8th March 2017 my case got approved but still I can’t see the update on USCIS website. Last week I enquired about same to my employer but they said your case number is changed and new number assigned after refer.

    My questions is –
    Do case number changed after refer respond
    Why there was no change in status (ref response received) on old number if new number was assigned
    Please help
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi,
      The case number doesn’t change after responding to RFE. Kindly ask your employer to share your approval notice with you, in case its approved. Approval notice carries your name in it. You can also ask for form I-797C which is provided by USCIS, once your case is picked in lottery. That notice carries both your name and case number. With this form, you can verify your actual case number and status online.

      Reply
      • Thanks Ram
        My employer is not sharing approval notice by saying that Project got delayed.
        I have soft copy of i979C with my name, employer details with case number starting from EAC16145. But this number is changed as per my employer.
        I am confused. Pls guide. Thank you.

        Reply
        • Do you mean I797C? If so that’s your case number. Generally, They don’t change through out the process. There is no harm in sharing the approval notice when project is delayed.

          Reply
    • H1b Urgent help,

      Do you have a copy of originally issued 797C? That should have your name and employer name and would confirm that its your receipt number.

      Like other person mentioned, case number doesn’t change after RFE. Is there a chance that your employer is taking you for a ride?

      Reply
  28. Anyone knows how this new application is filed, I mean through mail or online? As USCIS said they will reject any applicationn reaches before 3rd April will be rejeccted?
    Petitioner should calculate in such way that the application must reach on 3rd April onwards again how long we dont know?
    may be they will receive 3-4 days from 3rd april, Ofcourse they will accept more application than CAP but went for lottery till last year. No idea this year.

    Reply
    • Please don’t spam by posting the same question in multiple pages.

      Mail delivery providers have option for next working day delivery.

      Reply
  29. Hi Saurabh,
    My RFE response received 2 months back, waiting for result.I understand there is no SLA. My question is ,, I am seeing lot of denials past couple of months,, is it happened also in previous years?. I mean is the denials rate similar?

    Reply
    • I have been following H1B visa process for past two years.Among this, I am seeing more denial this year (financial year 2016) compared to previous one(2015). I feel all applications are being scrutinized throughly to avoid visa misuse.

      Reply
    • Rk,

      I can’t say conclusively if the percentage of denials is more or less. A lot depends upon the quality of the petition as well. If someone has filed a petition for a real job (consulting or otherwise), then they should remain confident.

      Reply
  30. While filling up DS160 form, there is a field “Address where you stay in the U.S? ” – Please let me know what should I enter as I dont have the residing address details with me.

    Reply
  31. My application got denied, is there any chances of approval if my employer applied for appeal ? Any one got approval after appeal?

    Reply
    • Yes, it is quite possible. One of my friend’s application was denied and his employer filed an MTR. In two months his application was approved. Be hopeful and ask your employer to file MTR with all strong proofs. Wish you all the best.

      Reply
    • H1Bbadluck,

      Like Well Wisher mentioned, employer can file MTR if they think they have valid reasons to get the decision reversed.

      Reply
  32. I am intiting stamping for H1b.
    I would travel May-2017 and my wife would travel Jul-2017.

    So for this situation can we go for stamping @ same time?
    wont they ask why are you coming for stamping at same time if 2 months delay in travel?
    if yes, In DS160-Travel companion , should I need to select as Yes or No even though 2 months delay in both of us travel?

    Reply
  33. Hi Saurabh,

    Processing Center: Vermont
    RFE received: 3rd Oct 2016
    RFE Response Submitted: 27th Dec 2016
    Processing: Regular AD

    When can I Expect any update..

    Please advise

    Reply
    • Deepu,

      There is no set SLA for regular processing. However, I expect them to complete the processing for all FY-17 petitions in next few weeks so that they can concentrate on FY-18.

      Reply
  34. Hi All,

    My H1 VISA stamped with company XXX for Client A location X , as there is no opportunity to travel in my current company XXX.Can I change company now to get US opportunity.My current visa valid till October 2017 only.

    Kindly suggest me on this?

    Reply
    • H1 VISA Query,

      Ask another employer to file a cap-exempt petition for you. Once approved, you can work for the new employer. New stamping is not required as long as the previous visa stamp is still valid and has not expired/canceled.

      Reply
  35. My wife H1b approved on March 14th and came to know from employer today and the status on uscis website still showing Response received.Guys check with your employers on your status.
    It took rfe submitted on Jan 20th
    California center
    Regular -AD

    Reply
  36. Hi guys,
    When I check my status online ,it is showing me that visa issued. But till now I did not get the mail or sms to collect the passport.Apart from that it is showing below message too. Can you please tell me when I can expect the message .
    Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received it in more than 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.
    Thanks ,
    Need info

    Reply
    • Need info,

      It would be better to contact the consulate or their support desk about it. Usually the message is sent out after the approval but there could be a technical glitch.

      Reply
  37. I have stamped H1B. From my current employer I will have to wait for some time to go to US . Meanwhile I have received offer from a US company who is willing to file my H1B transfer. Is it okay to enter in US with H1B transfer receipt or I can enter only after H1B transfer is approved ?

    Reply
  38. My case has been changed to Name was updated from RFE response received..

    Could any one please explain what does it mean

    Reply
  39. Hi Saurabh,

    Processing Center: Vermont
    H1B RFE Response Submitted: 01/14/2917
    Processing: Regular AD

    When can I file a service request with USCIS?

    Please advise

    Reply
    • Chris,

      As new H-1 filing is starting soon, you may see an update soon (maybe next 1-2 weeks). There is no SLA for RP. You can open a ticket but they may not provide any meaningful update to you.

      Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,

        Thanks for your response, truly appreciate it! It’s just been a very worrying few months, everyone I’ve spoken to is so unsure about the timelines on H1B processing.

        I’ll post here when I do hear something from USCIS and once again thanks for your response.

        Thanks!

        Reply
  40. Hi All,

    I have a stamped h1b visa for Client A but there position is no longer open. I am yet to travel to US.

    Can you please let me know incase of Amendment, can I start to work for the new client once Amendment receipt is received or I need to wait till approval?

    Reply
    • Query,

      I think you can work at the new location on the basis of amendment receipt. However, I am not 100% sure about this as no one has provided a position data point on this.

      Reply
  41. Hello All,

    I have a approved petition for X location. But somehow my Client and Location got Changed for now.
    Whats the minimum and maximum processing time for Amendment approval ?
    P.S : My visa is not stamped yet.

    Any help Would be highly appreciated.
    Contact : Karanverma39@gmail.com

    Reply
    • With Premium processing being suspended the time taken can be anything between 6-7 months for Amendment approval.

      Have you explored : Going for stamping on current approved petition and the travelling with Amendment receipt?

      Reply
          • 3 weeks is very optimistic for regular processing 🙂

            Do you mind sharing if you work for an Indian IT MNC?
            I think it is possible as I have seen folks doing this.

          • Better go for Stamping first and then Amendment as it will save a lot of time. You should be able to travel with Stamping and Amendment receipt in hand.

            There is no timeline for regular processing and with Premium processing being suspended there is no option then waiting in the the dark.

  42. Not to add insult to injury, but I am curious to know what employer is it, that is having a role open in the US for you for more than a year ? Why didn’t you upgrade to premium ?

    Reply
  43. Ha ha… Thats is life man. Its not complete even If we gent into US and draw salary in $$$s….
    Anyways, I wish you to get approved, stamped and travel soon!!!

    Reply
  44. Re posting my query. No answer in first attempt

    Dear Saurabh, Kumar & Friends,

    Required urgent help (EAC14550)

    My case was referred in Oct 2016 and my employer has submitted documents on Jan 2017.
    As per my employer, on 8th March 2017 my case got approved but still I can’t see the update on USCIS website. Last week I enquired about same to my employer but they said your case number is changed and new number assigned after refer.

    My questions is –
    Do case number changed after refer respond
    Why there was no change in status (ref response received) on old number if new number was assigned
    Please help
    Thanks

    Reply
  45. Will the pending premium applications will be given preference over regular applications while processing even after April 3rd or they will be treated as normal ?

    Reply
  46. Hi Guys,
    Today, I have attended the interview at Hyderabad consulate. Questions asked me during the interview.
    Vo: who is ur employer ? Answered
    Vo: did you receive your know your right pamphlet? Yes
    Vo: Do you have client? Yes
    Vo: who is the client? Said my client name?
    Vo:you role? Said
    Vo: salary? Said
    Vo: what is the annual salary?
    Finally she said that I have done with your interview . She did not given me any 221g and kept my passport. And she said Thank you… And I said Thank you.

    I just little confused now that did my visa approved? When I check my visa status online and it is showing administ arrive processing. It really helpful someone can answer who has got this kind of situation .
    Thanks,
    Help

    Reply
  47. Hi All,

    I am very happy to share that my Visa got approved after some hurdle in the form of 221g.
    This is my first attempt with regular processing. Everything went fine till the date of the visa stamping, but got 221g white slip at the Mumbai consulate and they returned my passport.

    They asked to submit all the documents related to my project details, it’s timelines and etc. With the help of my consultancy guys, submitted all the required documents and waited for around 2 months for the result and finally the day has come and today I received my passport from the bluedart office with the stamping in it.

    H1B Applied – 1st April 2016
    Case Approved – 18th Sep 2016
    Visa interview date – 28th Dec 2016 (got 221g)
    Documents submission date – 25th Jan 2017
    (got an email from the US traveldocs to submit my passport on 21st Mar 2017)
    Passport submission date – 22nd Mar 2017
    Visa issued date – 23rd Mar 2017

    Though is was very tough to wait I made it positively.
    Be positive and think positive always and everything will come your way.

    Thank you redbus for your valuable information and support and all the guys here for sharing your experiences and knowledge.

    Best Regards,
    Suresh

    Reply
    • Hello Suresh,

      Congratulations. My case is similar to you 221 (g) white slip with similar docs requested. All the requested docs has been submitted on Jan-18-2017 but no response till now.
      Can you reach me on Salesforce.com1984@gmail.com by providing you contact number. You inputs will really helps me a lot.

      Reply
    • Hi Suresh,

      Congratulations! My case was similar, 221 (g) issued on Dec-21-2016 where similar docs are requested. All the docs has been sent on Jan-18-2017 but no response till now. It has been more than 2 Months not even case updated.
      Could you please share your number to my mail Salesforce.com1984@gmail.com, you inputs will really helps me a lot for further followup.

      Thanks in Advance,
      Kittu

      Reply

Leave a Comment