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H1B Visa 2014

H1B Visa 2014 – All you need to know – FAQs

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H1B Visa 2014

 

H1B 2014 Cap reached on April 5th, 2013. Read : 124,000 H1B Visas Filed. Lottery Process
For this year FY 2015 H1B Info  read : H1B Visa 2015 – FAQs

Page Updated :  January 18th ,  2014

As USCIS is all set to accept H1B Visa petitions for the fiscal year 2014, many of you have questions on various aspects of filing H1B Visa 2014 like fee involved, lottery chances, H1B sponsors, Change of status, start date, end date of accepting H1B Visas, etc. This page will track all the H1B Visa 2014 News updates, Cap count information, FAQs, etc. Bookmark this page !  We have divided the page to various sub sections for your convenience.

FYI. Last year quota,which is H1B visa 2013 cap reached on June 11th, 2012.

 

H1B Visa 2014 News Updates

 

FAQs – All you  need to Know  !

Over the years, we have observed that prospective H1B visa seekers are always looking for certain pieces of information. We have grouped such information and created FAQs as listed below :

When will H1B Visa filing season start for Fiscal year(FY) 2014 ?

H1B visa filing season for fiscal year 2014 starts from April 1st, 2013. USCIS did a press release confirming the same.
How to find H1B Visa 2014 Sponsors ? Various Ways to find H1B Sponsoring companies
Finding right H1B Sponsor can be a very daunting task. There are few options to find sponsors like checking the H1B Sponsors Database and randomly contacting employers, working with IT outsourcing companies, looking at options in American Universities, Networking with friends. Each of these options are explained in this article :

How to find H1B Visa 2014 Sponsors ? Avoid Fraud

Why do we call H1B Visa 2014, when the petitions are filed in 2013 ? 

USCIS operates on a fiscal year basis instead of calendar year ( Jan 1 to Dec 31st). Its fiscal year starts from October 1st and ends on September 30th. On that lines, USCIS’s fiscal year for 2014 starts from October 1st, 2013 and lasts until September 30th, 2014.  So, though we file H1B petitions in April of 2013, they are counted towards H1B visa fiscal year 2014 and everyone calls it in short form as H1B visa 2014.

What is H1B visa 2014 Cap count for Regular quota and Masters Quota ?

If you are not aware of H1B cap count, it is the congressionally mandated numeric limits for H1B petitions based on category. Regular quota is for anyone who meets H1B visa requirements and Masters quota is specifically for students who have a Masters degree from US University. Typically, below are the numeric limits… ( we had these H1B cap limits set in 2004, if any changes by USCIS, we will update this page)

  • Regular Quota Cap – 65,000
  • Masters Degree Quota Cap – 20,000

Also, typically USCIS sets aside 6,800 visas  for Singapore and Chile Free Trade agreement filings, which is H1B1 Program. Also, read article All about H1B Caps – Basics Calculations, Lottery

 

H1B Visa 2014 filing deadline – What is the last date ?

Well, there is no set deadline as such by USCIS. They start to accept petitions from April 1st, 2013 and will continue to accept H1B petitions until the H1B cap (85,000) is reached. It can vary based on the H1B visa demand.

 

Will there be Lottery for H1B Visa 2014 ?

This is most commonly speculated question by many H1B seekers. Due to very high demand and hype for H1B workers, we had lottery in some of the previous years. But we do not know, we just have to speculate based on past data and economic conditions. As done in previous years, here is our analysis:

Check out H1B Visa 2014 Lottery prediction- USCIS Data Analysis

. You can also check out last year’s: H1B Visa 2013 lottery prediction 

 

What will be H1B visa 2014 filing fee ? Any changes ?

There has not been any changes to the filing fee for the fiscal year 2014. Check out the article : H1B visa 2014 filing fee – Who Pays for what ?. In general, it can range from $1,575 to $4,325 based on the number of employees ( this does not does not include attorney fee and premium processing fee).

 

International Students  – Can we do Change of Status ( COS) from F1 Visa to H1B visa for FY 2014 ?

Yes, international students pursing their Bachelors, Masters or PhD programs from US Universities, who may be working on OPT, can file a H1B Visa petition to USCIS with Change of Status(COS) option.  The advantage of COS from F1 visa to H1B visa is that you can continue to work after OPT expiration starting from October 1st, 2013 without leaving the country.  You have to do the COS before your OPT expires to maintain legal status in America.

 

How soon Can I start working, if I file for H1B visa 2014 fiscal year ?

One can start working from October 1st, 2013 , if you have an approved H1B petition. You may need to get H1B visa stamping done, if you file your petition from overseas and wish to come to America on H1B visa.. Unlike, if you are filing for a COS by staying in US, you can start to work without leaving US for H1B visa stamping.

 

What is current H1B visa 2014 cap count ?

The H1B season for FY 2014 will begin on April 1st, 2013. We will keep track of the USCIS cap count updates with analysis.

All H1B Cap counts will be tracked at :  H1B visa 2014  Cap Count Tracker .

In the mean time, you can check out our FY 2013’s  : H1B visa 2013 Cap count Tracker

 

Would you like to be informed about H1B visa 2014 ?

Subscribe for FREE H1B News, Cap Count updates below:

Photo of author
Satheesh Kumar Ilu, commonly known as Kumar, is the founder of RedBus2US.com. He is an Immigration and Study Abroad expert. He holds an MS from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. He studied, lived, and worked in the U.S. and Singapore for nearly two decades, and has traveled to over 25 countries.

   

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7,993 Comments

  1. Initial Review …how long does it take to process/approve a visa application ? RQ and RP … please share ur thoughts

    Reply

  3. Finally my consultant received my back on last friday.

    all the best to others who waiting for results or approval.

    thanks to this forum.

    Reply

  4. Guys,

    Please share your first 8 digits of receipt# (including Center code) who recently got approved, it really helps peoples who are waiting for approval out there. Thanks

    Reply

  5. Guys,

    Please share your last 8 digits of receipt# (including Center code) who recently got approved, it really helps peoples who are waiting for approval out there. Thanks

    Reply

  7. Finally the wait is over. Just got an update from my employer that my application got selected…RQ/RP…Application received date April 8th…any idea as how long will it take for processing…All the Best for those who are still waiting… Thanks in Advance…

    Reply

  8. My L1-B visa and I-94 both expired. My L1-B extension was filed before I-94 expired.

    My employer also applied for my H1-B without COS this year and my application got picked up in lottery. In july first week, I will know if H1 is approved or not.

    This morning, Employer told me today that they got an exhaustive list of RFE questions for L1 extension.

    If my L1-B extension is denied and I leave US,
    1. will the period I spent in US after I-94 expired affect my H1-B?
    2. can I come back on 1st Oct after visa stamping?

    Reply

    • L1 to H1
      Nothing to worry … You are safe, even if the L1 ext is denied all the days ypu spent after I94 expiry wouldnt count as out of status/illegal but the days you spent after the denial even a single day is considered out of status.
      Sobe well prepared to travel within 2 days after denial, normally the time given is around 2 weeks but there is no official statement regardin this as far I see.

      Reply

    • Hello L1 to H1,

      USCIS gives sufficient time to respond to a RFE, maybe maximum 6 months; Check with your Employer’s Immigration team. So try to respond by 4th month – September 18. By that time you have your H1B approval. Pray that even if L1B is denied, it should be at least by 30; that way your H1B becomes active 1st Oct 🙂

      Reply

      • Thanks SKML and H1B Applicant,

        My RFE response due date is 12th August. My employer will submit it 10-15 day before the due date.

        I have Canadian tourist visa. so i was thinking of going to canada on 1st Sept, and come back on 1st Oct after visa stamping. Do you think going out of US and getting H1 stamped in canada will be a problem if USCIS does not make any decision on L1B extension by 1st Sept.

        Reply

  9. Guys please spare sometime …

    After many requests, we are starting this poll again. Please update your H1B 2014 Filing status, so that your experience could help RedBus visitors!

    http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/H6SWV6T

    A must visit … Thanks in advance !!!

    Reply

  10. Hi All,
    Is the lottery Officially over,because there seems to be no ppl discussing abut it.
    Any website officially announced it,especially USICS?

    Regards,
    Mp

    Reply

    • Not sure. Still there are so many waiting for Lottery list. I dont think USICS has announced anything like that. Last year I think cap was filled by this time!

      Reply

  11. Hi Everybody,

    I have a question to ask. Here are the details of the reciept I got after the lottery:

    Reciept No : EAC13145*
    Reciept Date : 08 April 2013
    Notice Date : 25 April 2013.

    Ever since 25th April, the status on USCIS website shows the status as Initial Review.
    Could anybody including Saurabh please let me know when the status on this would change(hopefully to Approved). One more thing, almost all the approvals I have seen for the past couple of have months the Reciept No starting with ‘WAC’ which leads me to believe that the California centre is approving the visa’s quicker than the Vermont centre. Am i right in believing so?

    Thanks in advance.

    Abhilash

    Reply

  12. Hi,
    My case EAC12******** finally Approved after Denial!!!! Thank God!!!

    Applied – 05-June-2012
    RFE – 10-Oct-2012
    Denial – 12-Dec-2012
    Appeal to Reopen – 14-Jan-2013
    Approval – 03-June-2013

    I have been following this site for a very longtime. Thanks all for all your helpful information. Special Thanks to Saurabh.

    All the best to All who ware waiting and also please don’t loose hope and try till the last option.

    Reply

  13. Hi Saurabh,

    Today morning (In my end) , my case status is showing this –
    “At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.”

    What does it mean ?? I’m afraid of getting a RFE or rejection ..
    My Received Date : April 8
    Notice Date : April 18.

    …….worried …

    Reply

      • hi Ivanovich
        any update? i am not sure but i guess this status means there is going to be a decision on your case.
        kepp us posted if you get any updates.

        Reply

        • Hi timepass,

          Still there is no update. same status is showing from last week. I already informed my Attorney but she have n’t reply yet .. I’m worried … 🙁 🙁

          Reply

          • Hi Venkat,

            Still no update. 🙁 🙁
            some says, It might be for a RFE/Rejection. Dnt know exactly ..
            Too much worried.

  14. Me too still waiting for lottery results..Company not ready to disclose the outcome….Now i have started doubting if the company is secretly revealing the outcome to only those candidates who got selected in lottery…But how will I confirm this?..I have one question..do we need to submit any documents once our application gets selected in lottery..?

    Reply

      • Huh,
        Well if they have collected money for H-1 filing, then they have to return the money for unselected petitions.

        Reply

        • Oh I see. My company paid for everything so that didn’t occur to me. Sadly I was notified that I didn’t get selected in the lottery.

          I actually have a well-paid legit job but now will be leaving the country. Good luck everyone!

          Reply

          • The reason I am worried is because only a few ppl were informed about their successful lottery result while the rest are still made to keep guessing. There is a possibility that the others application were not selected and the company fears that they would resign.

  16. Hi All,

    I got my H1B Approval notice today from my employer.
    RQ/RP/VSC. EAC-13141*****. Application Receipt Date: 04/20/2013, Approval Date: 05/28/2013.

    Best of luck to all.

    Reply

    • som@ we get rfe usually when uscis needs any extra documents from us, for eg: if they need any client letter or something like that.
      BTW can u plz share me the first 5 digits of ur receipt num?

      Thanks!

      Reply

    • @Som….how long it takes to move from initial review to RFE (hope I don’t get, mine has been waiting on initial review sice 29th april )? What can be the reason of moving file to rfe?
      Reply awaited.

      Reply

    • hi,
      i am in the same situation like you, and have been since April fools day.
      no reply from immigration, no packet back, no receipt number.

      Reply

  20. Does anyone know how much a company spend for an employee to get H1B visa stamped?

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply

      • Hi Ram,

        I get that from the receipt notice (I-797C) – $4,325.00 U.S.
        But, in USCIS site (http://www.uscis.gov/Forms), it says $325.

        I just wanted to know how much my company is spending on me.

        Thanks in advance.

        Reply

      • — reposting as link to USCIS site needs moderator review
        Hi Ram,

        I get that from the receipt notice (I-797C) – $4,325.00 U.S.
        But, in USCIS site (Select forms link in the top, I-129), it says $325.

        I just wanted to know how much my company is spending on me.

        Thanks in advance.

        Reply

        • H1B applicant Infy,
          That’s just the fees for I-129. There are other fees that need to be paid.

          Here is a more detailed article on the fees.

          Reply

  21. Does anyone know how much a company spend for an employee for getting H1B stamped?

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply

  22. Hi,
    Anyone got approved for the series : WAC131365****

    It says”On April 8, 2013, we received this I129 PETITION”

    It means will i get to know any info by this week(08-june 2013) ,because as per them the processing time is 2 MONTHS .

    Kindly make me understand the logic here,like when can i except the approval.

    -Swapna

    Reply

    • Swapna,

      Mine is same like you. WAC……No update till now.
      Still in “Initial Review” state.
      2 month is not exact two months i guess. I have also seen some +/_ 10 days deviation. so lets hope for the best ..

      Reply

    • Swapna,
      Unlike PP when 15 calendar day is a hard deadline for USCIS, there is no such deadline for RP. 2 months is just a general estimate and timeline which USCIS aims for. In reality, it can take longer as well.

      So do not expect the decision to come by June 8 for sure.

      Reply

      • Hi Saurabh,

        Today morning (In my end) , my case status is showing this –
        “At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.”

        What does it mean ?? I’m afraid of getting a RFE or rejection ..
        My Received Date : April 8
        Notice Date : April 18.

        …….worried …

        Reply

          • Swapna,

            WAC13136 …….
            My attorney has given me a receipt notice of I-797C. There I got all the details of my case.

      • On the status page where it says Initial review, please scroll till the end and you will see something like: Expiration date 6-30-2012.

        I guess this is the date you may expect a response before this date.

        Reply

  23. WAC13135## RQ/RP Approved

    Notice Date: Apr-17
    Approval Date: Jun-6

    My History:

    2008: Rejected after selected in lottery.
    2010: Rejected.
    2011: Rejected.

    Best of Luck to all.

    Reply

  24. Hi Saurabh,

    My H1b case is showing below. I checked with company they told that both company and attorney didn’t changed their address. What could be the reason?. Any one got similar status and similar scenario?.

    Appreciate for your help.

    your address was changed relating to the I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER that you filed. Please check our website at www.uscis.gov for further updates on your case. Please wait until the end of normal processing time before calling customer service at 1-800-375-5283 for live assistance.

    During this step, USCIS initiates the background checks of the applicant/petitioner and identifies issues that may need to be addressed either during an interview or by asking the applicant/petitioner to submit additional information or documentation.

    Reply

  25. Hello, I am silent watcher to this blog.
    I hav applied for H1, so far I have not received any status whether it has been picked in the lottery? Is there anyone still waiting like me?

    Reply

  28. Hi,

    I am currently on H4 visa valid till Feb 2014. I applied for H1 while in US and is approved. Can i go to india now and return before october and start working on H1 from oct 1st?

    Thanks
    Amulya

    Reply

    • Question?,
      Your H-1 was approved w/ COS, correct? So yes, you can travel outside US, return on H-4 visa prior to Oct 1 and still be on H-1 from Oct 1.

      Talk to your attorney as to how I-94 automation will impact you in this case.

      Reply

  29. Today, I got information that my packet returned back. Best of luck who are waiting for lottery result or approval.

    And, let me have a drink.

    RQ Non AD, Vermount

    Reply

  30. How long do they take to change the status from “initial review”? Mine has been waiting since 29th April’13….also are there any special requirements in terms of years of experience in IT?

    Waiting for the replies…

    Thank you so much in advance.

    Reply

  31. IF YOU HAVE APPLIED THROUGH MAARK OVERSEAS / PRAVEEN RAJ, KINDLY JOIN THE GROUP BY EMAILING VOIDOFDEATH AT GMAIL DOT COM. We have grouped together to understand him and his tactics better. There is a strong sentiment amongst us that he is a fake due to misleading/contradictory statements.

    1) On 23rd April states that USCIS is yet to perform computer aided lottery, and ll that news of lottery being done is speculations, dont believe in other sources and wait to hear from me.

    2) On 11th May states that H1B is approved. He wont share any details, as that would let me identify employer’s name and compromise his investment.

    3) On 2nd June states that Employer and Location is fixed. Also, that we will be working directly with Employers as their *direct employee*, in india we term it as *permanent positions* not contract! Whereas pay will be on hourly basis 🙂 $30-$70 🙂 Also, he named US Giants as Employers! I dont believe any USA major company will hire us directly/indirectly without any interview? Also another googly was BEP login to be used for scheduling VISSA interview, and VISA fee would be $650, whereas in the usa embassy website for scheduling visa interview its mentioned as $190 for either BEP login or self login.

    Please join the group, its for your own benefit. Current strength is 8. Bigger the size of group, more seriously he will take us!

    Reply

    • Friends, we have one person in the group who is located in hyderabad, and Preveen Raj from MAARK Overseas has agreed to show us the H1B receipt notice number only in person at his office. So if you want to know your receipt notice, this will be the right opportune moment to speak up and join the group. More the headcount in the group more serious he will be with his investment of so called amount $8000. Send in your querries or concern to the group: voidofdeath at gmail dot com. Headcount till now is 8 and counting; We estimate atleast 100 people who have filed through Praveen Raj. Appreciate if you could join forces.

      Reply

      • Hi,
        i have also applied for H1B through praveen raj.. and the same is happening and he asked for
        650 $ for BEP process..

        Reply

      • HI, I also Applied for L1B Visa with Praveen Raj / MAARK Overseas 1 month back and till now i have not got any response from him. when i called him and asked for an update he mentioning my petition is filed and it takes another 3 to 4 weeks to get the status. But after seeing the comments in this site am bit worried whether this is Fake Consultancy…

        Reply

          • HI Saurabh, Yes i have paid the L1 Petition fee 1250$ and 8K for initial Verification fee and i have all the receipts too….

          • Rtest,
            All L-1 fees need to be paid by company. Having receipts doesn’t help you. I am pretty sure the company is duping you and others. Ask for proof of filing or get your money back.

    • H1B Applicant?.
      Seems like this firm/person is a middle man or broker and wants to extract more and more money from you before he leaves US at the mercy of the employer.

      Not sure why you went this route and filed through him not knowing who the end employer is.

      Reply

      • Hello Saurabh,

        Thanks for your comment. I hope that what you are saying – middleman, is true! Right now am freaking out if he is actually genuine. Thanks to this forum am able to share the anxiousness and get some clarity along with fellow brothers who have applied through MAARK Overseas.

        Originally my current employer was filing and ditched me in the last minute – mid March. Searched online for couple of consultants and 2 replied. Checked for reviews VQuest had decent review but they will not refund any money ($4000) if not selected in lottery, whereas MAARK Overseas will take double the amount ($8,000) but I will have to pay only when I have the VISA stamped. I didnt had much of time to negotiate with VQuest for refund of money in case not selected ion lottery. Its quite fesible that if I go USA I will be able to manage to save extra money I pay MAARK Overseas compared to loss of $4000 in case not selected; Reason being I have strong recommendation from all client I had worked for with my current employer, and I have confidence in myself, just that I need a legal entry to USA.

        Assuming MAARK Overseas is a scamster, could you direct or guide me to get hold of some genuine consultants ? Just preparing myself for the worst and hoping for the best in next quota.

        Thanks and appreciate your valuable insight.

        Reply

          • Hi Saurabh

            Did u get your H1B as last week when I went to his office and asked him about the process of L1 and H1. He showed me few offer letters of the candidates and the companies were IBM, CSC, Microsoft etc. Did someone really when to USA from this consultancy and working there??????????

          • Alok.
            I have no relationship to this company. I am just making people aware of the red flags which are all over the place w.r.t this company. Still people seem to be inquisitive about the company which seems unfortunate.

            Like the saying goes, there is always a sucker.

          • I did applied for L1B through this and we can connect if you want you can drop me message on testpatle and the domain is gmail

          • Test,
            So you applied L-1 through this company. What employer proprietary skills/technology do you and your employer possess?

            Also, how much did you pay for the L-1? Do you know there are several H-1 employees waiting to hear any response from this firm? Do you know they published H-1 until cap was open and now publishing L-1 once cap is over.

          • Hi,

            I would like to know any of your friends got L1 Visa from Maark overseaes consultancy?
            If yes,please share their details to know about this consultancy.

            Thanks in Advance

          • Hi all,

            I just coming across this site and wanted to let you all know that I’ve applied for L1 from this consultancy 10 days ago and waiting for a response from them as they said they’ve filed the petition and it will take another 5-6 weeks to get the status.

            So is there any one who had applied from this consultancy for L1 and have any bad experience???

            pls share

          • I don’t understand how people can be so DESPERATE.

            There are red flags all over internet about this company. People who filed their H-1s are still waiting to hear any news and are being subject to additional money to see scanned copies of their receipt notices.

            And now people want to go for L-1. Does anyone know what the requirements for L-1 are? Just b/c it is a visa and this company says they can get it, doesn’t mean you are eligible for it.

            I wonder how many of you will come back to this forum asking for how to get your money back from the company for L-1 filing, which may never get filed and just ends up in the company’s bank account.

          • Hi Neelima,

            i am planning to apply L1 from MAARK consultancy. Is this consultancy genuine. How much did you pay for L1?
            you can call me at 9952998809 .

    • QYup… even I have applied for L1 with the same consultancy… got into agreement with them on 11th July.. But he never turned up after that day… after a long wait I called and asked them seriously than they said the LCA(Labour Condition Application) with labour department is cleared and petition is filed so wait for a month more..
      And he said the company name is WELLS FARGO and the salary is $40 per hour… he didn’t said the place of company and am unable to track the same as it has many branches in USA..
      Hmmmmmmm????
      How can I know all this genuine?????
      Please help me…
      And he is taking $650 for visa where as it is $190 in cheenai consolate site???

      Reply

      • Anyone who has filed H-1 or L-1 through MAARK Consultancy, please follow this thread.

        Looks like the owner is active there and responding. So you may be able to get your doubts cleared.

        Reply

    • Yup… even I have applied for L1 with the same consultancy(Maark overseas)… got into agreement with them on 11th July.. But he never turned up after that day… after a long wait I called and asked them seriously than they said the LCA(Labour Condition Application) with labour department is cleared and petition is filed so wait for a month more..
      And he said the company name is WELLS FARGO and the salary is $40 per hour… he didn’t said the place of company and am unable to track the same as it has many branches in USA..
      Hmmmmmmm????
      How can I know all this genuine?????
      Please help me…
      And he is taking $650 for visa where as it is $190 in cheenai consolate site???
      If any one want to contact me please send an SMS I’ll call u..
      My no. +919966099188

      Reply

      • Satish,
        Wells Fargo is a pretty big major bank in US. I am 100% sure they cannot be employer as they will not hire anyone w/o interviewing the person.

        I ask again, do you know if you are qualified for L-1? How long have you worked for this company?

        Reply

        • Hello Folks
          Normally the processing time is 4 weeks for L-Category as per the USICS site link ,follow up with this Guy to check about your status as it seems red flag about this consultancy.
          https://egov.uscis.gov/cris/Dashboard/ProcTimes.do

          Reply

          • Hi Guys,

            Any one got L1 or H1visa from Maark overseas consultancy?

            If yes pls share details…

            Is it genuine consultancy ?

    • I have applied for h1b from the same consultancy, and my interview was scheduled in July for postponed due to I-797 form from USCIS.. and till date no news from praveen on that he sayd he is still waiting for the I-797 once its received he will reschedule the interview. – fingers crossed and hoping its not fake

      Reply

          • Hi Sania,

            Praveen is referring the company names of Apple,Weels Fargo,Micro soft,IBM.
            I hope he told to you also one of the company from the above list.Please confirm with him yours petition number and petition receipt. How much you paid to him till now?

          • No.. none of the above said company.. i paid 650$ for BEP+ 8k during initial stage for the verification. thats all..

      • Hi sania,
        Like u he also said the same story to 13others, one of them is venkat ph:+91 99 48 022476 contact him and know the update. For more updates about Maark Overseas please mail your details to fortruthandjustice2013 at Gmail dot com

        Reply

      • Hi Sania, I’m still not sure why would he schedule an interview when he has not received all the documents, This guy is a Fruad,… Pls do not waste time. pls reclaim your money. Any one in this forum please could you suggest any options to get the money back from this guy?

        Reply

  32. ANY ONE FROM THE VERMONT CENTRE STARTED GETTING APPROVAL IN THE RQ/RP ??
    (RECEIPT NOTICE STARTING WITH “EAC13”)

    Reply

    • This year everybody’s receipt number (vermont) will start with EAC13. Give us the next 3 digits of the receipt number.

      Thanks.

      Reply

      • Yes. Got that..thank you. here I can see everyone getting approval in RQ/RP have receipt number starting with WAC13.
        So I wanted to know if there is any with receipt number starting with EAC13 who has got approval in RQ/RP.

        Any piece of information is appreciated.

        Reply

          • RQ/RP/ EAC13137*****

            HAS ANY ONE STARTED GETTING APPROVAL WITH THESE DIGITS ABOVE ??
            ANY PIECE OF INFO IS APPRECIATED
            THANKS

  34. I am currently on OPT and I haven’t received any information on my H1-b yet. My employer is saying they haven’t received any returned package as of today’s date. When I called my school today and asked them if there is any update on my SEVIS status, they told me there hasn’t been any changes recently on my status. Does that imply that I am not selected for H1-b this year?

    Reply

  35. Did someone from the series wac1313651***, started receiving the Decision. Mine is currently in Initial Review since 8th April.

    Thanks.

    Reply

    • Did someone from the series wac1313651***, started receiving the Decision. Mine is currently in Initial Review since 8th April.

      Regular Processing. IT company. INDIA.

      Thanks.

      Reply

      • same here …mine is also wac131365…series.
        RQ/RP . this is my 1st time. Still in “Initial review” state.

        Reply

          • Sandeep, how lucky you are. With in 1 month you got the approval for RQ/RP. For mine it is alost 2 months. Still status is Initial review.

          • Sandeep,

            Please can you tell us about the process on how your application moved from Initial review to Approved. What were the different stages etc.

            and did you go for the interview at consulate.

            Appriciate your reply.

          • Hi sanjay,

            for mine notice date was : 23rd April 2013, it is in initial review till
            3rd may 2013 morning and directly status changed to Post decision with approved.

  37. My employer is saying my petition is still pending at USCIS.They have not received any information regarding my petition. waiting for lottery results.. is this believable , is there any other way to know the information.

    Reply

  38. Guys …this is important!!!

    Those still waiting for recepit number, please call the USCIS number and ask for your receipt status. I got mine approved but vermont centre did not inform or send any intimation via postal mail. Upon asking they has no reply to this. So please guys ask your attorney or employer to call up n ask them. Good luck to all.. Try this there might be some luck.. I am RP/RQ/VSC.

    Reply

    • Hi,
      Are you talking about receipt number or the receipt status after being thru the lottery?
      If you are talking about the status, it can be very well checked in USCIS website (my case status) right ?

      Thanks.

      Reply

      • I am talking about the receipt number. For those who haven’t received any notification from their employers or attorney.

        Reply

    • Hi ambz,

      My employer filed for my H1 under PP/AD/VSC. But we haven’t received any update yet, neither the lottery nor the package. Can we still expect receipts for AD/PP??

      Thanks in Advance!!

      Reply

      • Dear Sunny, like I said plz ask your attorney or employer to call USCIS number (it took 4 hours on call with uscis in my case) and ask about the receipt information. You will get first hand information about your packet.

        Be positive and I am sure you receipt number is on its way.

        Reply

    • hey Congratzz 🙂 my case status too states “initial review”. hope the waiting ends soon and in a good note.

      Reply

      • Hi ,

        Mine is wac13136….. RQ/RP .
        How long will I have to wait for the decision ?
        Seems like RQ/RP people have already started getting their approvals…

        Reply

  40. Hi Guys,

    I need your help. My employer applied for my H1. I got through the lottery (that was another roller coaster ride)… and now I’ve been in “initial review” for the past 40 days.

    I have an offer from a small company and they are unaware of immigration procedures for foreign labor. Can I change employer while H1 is still under “initial review” ? My OPT allows me to work till 08/08/13.

    Thanks,
    Stuck In Limbo

    Reply

    • @Stuck in Limbo

      Do not change the employer. The H1B petition is filed by the employer/petitioner (lawyer who works for the employer). If you change the employer your petition will be withdrawn. In this stage petition is non-transferrable and you will not be able to work in US after 08/08/13.

      Reply

    • Stuck in Limbo,
      Like SIL mentioned, your H-1 will be of no use if you change employers and old employer withdraws the petition. If the petition gets approved, and then you change employers, you can still go for cap-exempt petition in future. If you want quick approval, then upgrade the petition to PP.

      Reply

    • Approved!!! Approved!!! Approved!!! Approved!!! Thank you everyone on this forum!!
      Won’t pray since I don’t believe in god, but I hope you all get it too!!

      Notice Date: Jun 05, 2013
      WAC13138*****

      Reply

    • Approved!!! Approved!!! Approved!!! Approved!!! Thank you everyone on this forum!!
      Won’t pray since I don’t believe in god, but I hope you all get it too!!

      Notice Date: Jun 05, 2013
      WAC13138***** (RP/RQ)

      Reply

  41. Hi ,
    Did the status change from decision (approved) to post decision activity for premium processing, anyone? And how long will it take to get the I797?

    Reply

  43. Hello everyone,

    My H1B finally got approved after I got a RFE to prove my job qualifies as a Speciality Occupation.

    I am AD/PP/VSC – EAC131315****

    Reciept notice – 8th April 2013
    RFE received – 15th April 2013
    RFE responded – 23rd May 2013
    H1B approved – 31st May 2013
    H1B approval notice received (in mail) – 3rd June 2013

    This website was really a big help, I have been following it for past 2 months. Congrats to all who have got their Visas and good luck to everyone who are waiting for the visa approval.

    Reply

    • Can you please let me know what are all the questions they asked for..

      For me.

      The beneficiary’s work experience included the theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge required by the specialty;

      2. The claimed experience was gained while working with peers, supervisors, and/or subordinates who have a degree or equivalent in the specialty; and

      3. The beneficiary has recognition of expertise in the specialty evidenced by at least one type of documentation such as:

      (A) Recognition of expertise in the specialty occupation by at least two recognized authorities in the same specialty occupation;

      (E) Achievements that a recognized authority has determined to be significant contributions to the field of the specialty occupation.

      Documentation should be submitted to support the evaluation, such as letters from peers, supervisors, and/ or subordinates who worked with the beneficiary and can attest to his claimed experience; awards issued to the beneficiary;
      licenses or registration of the beneficiary to practice the specialty occupation, etc.

      Reply

  44. I am from HCL and I recieved an email from ISG stating I was not selected in Lottery. However there is a rumour going on stating they never submitted our applications, but just pretended they did and then say we did not get selected in the Lottery. How many of HCL people have suffered this way, I would like to know ??

    Reply

    • I am also from HCL and they did as they send the confirmation mail “petioion has been filled” in April and then send the confirmation that you pettition has been selected in the lottery.

      Reply

  45. Sorry for spamming but i have still not got the answer so re posting

    My employer notified me that they received my package back and my application is not selected in lottery. I wanted to make sure he is not lying, so i asked them for the returned package. They sent me one scanned page which has a general text which says that USCIS reieved your application but you were not selected in lottery. But nothing in that letter confirms that this H1b was filed for me only.

    This page has only a FileNo: which is blank and a FormNo: which has I-129 written by hand. Is the I-129 form returned by USCIS just one page letter with no detailas about the applicant? There must be some way to associate it to an applicant?

    Please advice, what document should i ask my employer to share in order to confirm that my H1b was actually filed?

    Reply

    • Sahil,

      Ask them a copy of the I 129 that they filed. every employer keeps a copy of the petition, so, they should have it with them.

      Reply

  46. My status shows today: At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.

    what does this mean? My receipt no 13140—–.

    Reply

  48. Hello Friends, Anyone who applied through MAARK Overseas and got an email that your H1B is approved and later another email about Employer information and asked to pay Embassy Fee (interview). As per Praveen Raj, using BEP login will have $650 as fee and if done through self it is $200. I checked online and with USA VISA helpline in India, and they said that the fee for both is same and its $190. Am really puzzled. If you have filed through MAARK Overseas please speak up. His statements are way off the facts, so makes me doubt his genuiness. Request to all who have filed through him to please reply to this post, or at the least contact me at voidofdeath at gmail dot com. We have formed a group, and we all are puzzled. Please join the group and throw more light or if not interested in joining then at least speak up here.

    Reply

    • Is Maark overseas consultancy fake?
      He says like 90% there will be no interviews from Employer. Is this correct?
      Direct we will get the offer letter from the employer without any interview. This is ridiculous.
      I am planning to apply for L1 from this consultancy. Can I?
      Also before leaving to US we need to pay 1 month US salary prior to fly. And after that we need to pay extra 1 month US salary after you receive your first month salary. So total it counts 2 months of US salary.

      Reply

      • Hi Krish,

        Have you got any positive reply regarding the trustworthiness of the maarkoverseas ? Have to applied for L1B through that consultant ?

        Reply

      • Krish,
        What kind of work will be you be doing in US on L-1 which makes you qualified to work for them on L-1?

        Remember, L-1 requires you to be working on employer proprietary tools/applications/technology/skills. From what I have read online, this company is a body shopper or recruiting agency etc. I have serious doubts if they have any employer specific expertise.

        No company will ask for money for H-1 or L-1.

        Reply

  49. Hi Saurabh,

    I filed my H1b this time and the status is Post Decision Activity right now. Does it mean that I can go for stamping, provided the start date in my petition is within the next 90 days ?

    Reply

    • Hi Arvind,

      You can go for stamping anytime but your H1B is for Fiscal Year ’14 which starts from October ’13 onwards. So as an H1B job seeker, you can start working in the US only by 1st Oct ’13 and land in US only 9 days prior i.e by 21st Sep ’13.

      Reply

    • Arvind,
      You can go for stamping at most 90 days prior to H-1 start date.

      One person recently went for stamping and was issued 221g and asked to return when its less than 90 days to H-1 start.

      Reply

  50. My employer notified me that they received my package back and my application is not selected in lottery. I wanted to make sure he is not lying, so i asked them for the returned package. They sent me one scanned page which has a general text which says that USCIS reieved your application but you were not selected in lottery. But nothing in that letter confirms that this H1b was filed for me only.

    This page has only a FileNo: which is blank and a FormNo: which has I-129 written by hand. Is the I-129 form returned by USCIS just one page letter with no detailas about the applicant? There must be some way to associate it to an applicant?

    Please advice, what document should i ask my employer to share in order to confirm that my H1b was actually filed?

    Reply

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