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H1B Visa 2015 – Frequently Asked Questions – Updates

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Updated : Dec 9, 2014 (H1B 2016 FAQs )

H1B Visa 2015 season is over. Check below for H1B Visa 2016 Season.

Applying for H1B Visa 2016 ? Did you miss FY 2015 lottery ?

Check out -> H1B Visa 2016 – Start Info, Sponsos, Fees, News , FAQs 

Flash News Update  : 

  • May 5th : USCIS announced today that data entry of all FY15 H-1B cap petitions has been completed. USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap petitions that were not selected in the lottery. They have announced it on their twitter and facebook pages.
  • April 18th : USCIS announced that they will begin H1B FY 2015 premium processing from April 28th, 2014. Previously they announced that they will begin, ‘no later than April 28th’. They just clarified that. You can read on USCIS website  
  • April 11th : USCIS announced that it received about 172,500 petitions for the H1B Visa 2015 Quota. Read USCIS : 172,500 Received – H1B Lottery Summary 
  • April 7th :  USCIS H1B Visa 2015 Cap Reached on April 7th. 

H1B Visa 2015 – Latest News Updates , Articles 

Looking for H1B Cap Daily Updates ?  Check  H1B Visa 2015 Cap count Updates Page 

Frequently Asked Questions about H1B Visa FY 2015 

When will H1B Visa 2015 Season Begin ?

USCIS accepted H1B Visa 2015 applications from April 1st, 2014. They had the window open for 5 working days. USCIS stopped accepting H1B Petitions for FY 2015 from Monday April 7th as more applications were received than the required cap of 85,000 petitions.

What would be the Cap count for H1B Visa 2015 quota ?

No changes to the H1B Cap for FY15, the immigration reform discussions did not go through, the cap limit remained same as last year.

  • Regular H1B Quota : 65,000
  • Masters H1B Quota : 20,000
  • It is to be noted that 6,800 visas every year are set aside for Singapore and Chile Free trade agreement filings, which is called as H1B1 program.

Would there be lottery for H1B Visa 2015 ?

We had H1B visa Lottery for fiscal year 2014. USCIS received about 172,500 petitions for FY 2015 . Our predictions were right, you can read the article H1B Visa 2015 Lottery Prediction analysis 

How soon should I start planning for H1B Visa 2015 ?

[ Updated : H1B Sesaon is over for FY 15, plan for next year FY 2016 ] Well, there is nothing like too early… Getting a good H1B Sponsor can be a challenge these days. You need to find a job that fits your profile and find a sponsor that has a job for you.  Some employers want to test out the capabilities of the candidate before they plan to sponsor H1B Visa. Typically, they would like students with masters from US work for them on internship or co-op.  If they like the candidate then they will sponsor H1B visa.  If you are planning to land in US from overseas countries like India, it could be even challenging to find a good sponsor. Maybe you would need to work with global IT services companies and make your way up. It can involve lot of internal process to get the process initiated… You are never early…. Read Step by Step Plan to Apply for H1B 2015 

How do I find Sponsors for H1B visa 2015 ?

This is probably the most asked question.  It can be a challenge to find a good sponsor. We have written quite a few articles on this topic. The fundamental concept of finding a good employer does not change.  You can use our H1B Visa Sponsors Database  and search for sponsors in a city or zip code. Check out the above links under 2015 latest news and updates for the current year’s article to find sponsors. You can also, read our last year’s article :  How to find H1B Visa sponsors, avoid fraud 

What would be the H1B Filing fee for Fiscal year 2015 ? 

There has not been any changes in the filing fee for the past couple of years. It did not change for fiscal year 2014.  The  H1B Visa 2015 filing fee can range anywhere from  $1,575 to $4,325  based on the size of the company (number of employees ). Also, the attorney fee can range from $700 to $3000. If you go for premium processing again that is $1225.  You can check out the detail break up of fee at : H1B Visa Filing Fee Details – Who Pays for What ?  

H1B Visa Immigration Reform – CIR – Proposed Changes ? The comprehensive immigration reform has not passed yet.  But, lets say, if it gets passed, the below changes may happen.

  • Annual H1B Cap will be increased from 65,000 per year to 110,000. If exteme demand, it can go up to a maximum of 180,000.
  • The H1B quota for STEM degree holders from American Schools will increase from 20,000 to 25,000
  • H1B Visa fees can up to USD $10,000.
  • More stringent rules on H1B visa adjudication.
  • Mandatory LCA posting on DOL website for at least 30 days, before it is certified.

You can read Summary of CIR – Immigration reform – H1B Visa and Green Card  . We will keep you posted with updates on CIR and H1B visa changes for this year, if any. Did I miss anything ?  Do you have any other questions ?

Note :  Some of the below comments about H1B Sponsors are negative.  Please be aware that these are comments added by individuals of companies, competitors and many others that may hate such companies. We do NOT vouch for any of the comments made as they are not made by us.

Under federal law (Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act), our Blog RedBus2US.com is NOT legally liable or responsible for information posted by public, general users or third parties that contains remarks that are defamatory for a company or individual.

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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23,888 Comments

  1. Hi,

    My H1B application is approved. My employer is asking me to wait for 4-5 months at least before I go for Visa stamping. I have following Qs.

    a. Is there a validity for an approved H1B Petition? If yes, how do we know about it?

    b. I do not have any approval documents with me, these docs are with employer. I only have receipt/application number. Is there a way to find out validity of H1B Petition with receipt number?

    c. My passport has validity till 7 more months. Within how many months from now on should I go for stamping?

    d. How do I go about if my passport’s validity expires, before I go for stamping?

    e. Can my employer cancel H1B petition, once it is approved?

    Responses are highly appreciated.

    Reply

    • 1) Yes, its given in the petition. Usually between 2.5 to 3 years, or sometimes may be even till your passport is valid.
      2) NO, unless your employer sends you a copy of the petition, there is no way.
      3) Have atleast 6 months validity before you apply for stamping. Better renew it now and then proceed. Normal passport takes 15-20 days.
      4) See point 3.
      5) Yes.

      Reply

      • Thanks for quick response.

        As I have passport validity for about 7 months, you mean to say I-797 might have been issued for a period of 7 months only???

        There will be a change in passport number when I apply for renewal of passport.
        Is that okay when I go for stamping?

        Reply

    • all answered answered quite correctly—> to add for passport

      if your validity is less than 6 months : you are not allowed to travel ( or may be Visa is not issued) on that — better REISSUE asap
      ( REISSUE is correct word — old passport is cancelled on the day you go for passport re issue)

      Process —> do it now itself –pay by Credit card and book date / appointment — very smooth process — no agent required—->
      ……………
      go to — > passportindia.gov.in — register + login + save application / upload with details , make payment and booking at nearest PSK (passport office) — very smooth process — carry required doc etc. ( for deletion of ECR — 10th Class CERTIFICATE —> Matriculation Pass Certificate is MUST — Carry ORIGINAL also )

      normal reissue may take 15-30 days or MORE days depending ( or pending) upon police verification ( Pre or Post verification based — decided by Granting officer at passport office ) — so assume 1-2 months or even more ( depending upon area / state)

      My suggestion — Renew ( known as RE ISSUE) passport ASAP

      Reply

      • Thank you very much for your response.

        My existing passport is having address as my permanent address. Now I want to apply for passport in my current address hence there will be change in address. Is that okay when I go for stamping?

        Reply

        • Passport is always issued for current address. Provide address proof for the same and get it updated. DO NOT give fake address proof and dont apply unless you are staying in that place.

          For Visa, it doesnt matter, as long as you have correct documentation. But as said by VI, apply for a re issue of passport and go for stamping with it.

          In my personal opinion, I paid 1000 Rs to an genuine agent for asking his guidance for documentation correctness , he took my document copies and he fixed the appointment and all himself online. Just appear on the required days. Doing it ourself may be cumbersome and we will have 1000 questions coming up in mind. Also you may have to appear for police verification and they might call you to visit police station or they may turn up to your physical current address.

          Reply

          • Thanks Spetsnaz. Please respond on below.

            As I have passport validity for about 7 months, you mean to say I-797 might have been issued for a period of 7 months only???

          • Only your employer knows that since that validity dates are found only on the petition itself. Please check with him and ask for the email copy of hte approval notice, he should have it. Dont worry too much about it, once you are there, an extension be filed and got approved very soon.

        • I can tell you my experience.
          1. i got my passport re-issued during h1b processing(i got new passport in july) with a change in address and new passport number.
          2. i did not have any issue during stamping(stamping done in august). Carry your old and new passport for stamping.
          3. PSK will not keep your old passport. They will take it and put a cancelled seal and give it back.
          4. use tatkal option if you have proper documents. i used tatkal and got my passport in 4 days.

          Reply

          • Thank you for a detailed response.

            I have applied for my Son’s passport under Normal scheme. I got the appointment on Sep 10th. I have filled my current passport details in the application. I might receive his passport by end of September.

            What mode would you suggest me to go for reissue of my passport. If I apply in Tatkal mode right now, I will get my passport with a new number. Will it be a problem when I go for my son’s passport interview/appointment as i have filled my current passport details?

            Is it advised for me to wait till next month end to receive my Son’s passport and then apply on Tatkal mode? In this way I am gonna loose out on time. 🙁

            Please respond.

          • No , I suggest you to get yours done, since you are the primary US Visa applicant . For kids, it usually comes in a few days time. Please renew yours first and later you can add an endorsement on your kids passport if required. Also do not worry too much, as first step get your renewed passport and go for stamping, rest will follow 🙂

          • Passport number will change-there is no problem in that, old number will be mentioned in your new passport

            Police verification will happen for sure- since ur changing personal details like address -current address , be ready to make police satisfied. ..with your response to their question and taste:) ..
            Apply in tatkal if u can…google about for requirements

            Normal mode may take 15 days to 2 months…hope that police visit u and send report timely… keep following up with police to send report to rpo asap rather than keeping with them for weeks-you can request this when they visit..moreover call them on their mobile to temind if required

    • Hi Approved and confused,Even i am also in the same boat.My petition was approved in june but my employer told me that wait until sep 1′st week to go for stamping.I applied through desi consultancy.what might be reason ?I am outside of USA(Malaysia).

      Appreciate all you help…..

      Thanks

      Reply

      • DollarDreeams,
        Do not worry, If your start date is Oct 1, there is no point appearing for stamping now itself. Your employer is right, try around Sep 1st, since anyway you cannot enter the US 10 days before the actual start date on the visa.

        Reply

  4. Hi,

    I wish someone let me know, how to find out if USCIS received my package? As i am not getting any update from USCIS regarding lottery results, i want to know if my courier is received by them.

    Reply

  5. Hi,

    My Petition is in RFE Specilaity Occupation category from June 13, 2014. My company is processing the visa through BAL Global. They have asked me for the detailed professional experience letter and university transcripts.
    I have already been rejected with my L1 Visa in 2012. Is that the reson for me to be in this RFE status?

    Can anyone help me, if they have same RFE status?
    Please guide me what other proof we have to provide to USCIS for making our documents more clear and solid.

    Thanks,

    Reply

  6. Hi,

    My H1B (normal processing) status was approved last week after RFE response was done. I checked the status again today and it has moved back to initial review , the explanatory message says –

    “On August X, 2014, your address was changed relating to the I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER that you filed.. ”

    I am not authorized to change the address, its always the petitioner and/or the lawyer. I spoke with USCIS and requesting what it means in such a situation ( like in this case status changing from Approved to Initial Review), and the person said that Approved Status can not be overriden.

    Any insights would be appreciated.

    Thanks.

    Reply

    • This is a part of process man, it moves to initial review ( address change in I 129),this doesn’t mean it moved away from approved status ,in a weeks time it will move back to post decission activity..so cheers! ur petition approval is almost all there.remeber ur approval status cant be revoked back

      Reply

  8. I got lottery from XXX consultancy, I am applying for an H1B visa and I would like my spouse to travel with me. Can she apply for a dependent visa H4 at the same time that I do or consultancy will do or must they wait until my visa has been issued. Please send me if you have any link for the same.

    Thanks,

    Reply

  11. HI Friends,

    Today i have attended H1B interview in Delhi.

    i have asked with the following questions?

    1)About Current employer?
    2)About US employer?
    3)How you came to know about US employer?
    4)where you are going to US?
    5)why roles and responsibilities with US employer?
    6)How long i have been working with current company?
    7)Why you have left the previous company?

    Then he took my passport,I797B,LCA and I-129 Documents
    and told me we have to look in to this Sir,we will get back to you like that.
    He has not given any Color slip to me?
    I am totally confused and scared,can any please help me on this,
    whether any chances are there to get Visa?

    Reply

  12. Hi I am new here.Can anyone tell me how much salary can get in USA for dot net with 5+ exp ? salary and take home.Thanks in advance.

    Reply

    • It all depends on your skill sets and knowledge. It is selling cars, Toyota and BMW both make cars of similar type but one sells as a premium price and other is not.
      Experience can help you in showcasing your profile but it is the knowledge that will get you the money. Doesn’t matter if you have 2 yrs, if you have the knowledge and skills, you can demand top dollars. There is no benchmark. In Bay Area people get very good salary and they are relatively more skillful too.

      Reply

  14. plus +1

    they really initiate visa application ? did you pay any lawyer fee ? do u have any agreement? did you check with employer?

    in my case i dont have any of them

    Reply

  15. Hi All,
    What will the appropriate ans to this question of VO considering that you have to convience them that you are not a potential non-immigrant going for temporary work in US:

    VO: do you plan to apply for GC after your H1B status during 3 years?
    OR
    VO: do you plan to return to your home country after 3 years?

    VO knows that we have an option of staying their as permenant resident in US but also wishes to be convieneced that you are not a non-immigrant worker.

    Reply

    • H1b is a dual intent visa. You do not need to convince that you have no intention to apply for green card. This is mainly applicable for visas other than h1b and l1(both are dual intent)

      Reply

  16. I am still unaware of my selection in lottery. It seems my employer do not have the status. Around 80% of my collegues whose visa was initiated are awaiting lottery result. Can any one please tell me should I still be hopefull or should I understandmy application has not been picked in the lottery itself? The sad part is that we do not have our receipt number to track the status. Are there others as well in the same boat?

    Reply

    • Hi TCSer,
      Though it may sound bad but I think you shud give up the hopes for this year. As for those who were selected in lottery would have received the notification long back and major chunk of them got their approval notice too.
      What I wud sugegst is- work on back up plans or try for next year H1B quota.
      Thanks..

      Reply

  17. I got my visa stamping done from Chennai.

    Date of ofc: 4th august
    date of interview:5th august
    passport collected: 7th august

    ofc was a straight forward process. reached there 10 minutes before appointment time(9.00 am). we were(me & spouse) out by 9 15.they take finger prints and photo.
    Consulate:
    There was a big crowd in-front of consulate. My appointment time was at 9.00 am. We reached there by 8 45.We were inside only by 9 45.
    After the security check, they will issue a token.After than we entered to a room were the actual interview happens.
    We were directed to a queue from were they will verify the finger prints and were asked to wait for actual interview.
    After around 20 minutes our token was called.

    VO: good morning. please pass your passports.
    me: Gm,gave the passports.
    VO:please pass your documents.
    ME: passed 1797,lca and i129.
    VO:which company?
    me:answere my company name.
    VO:What do they do.
    ME:answered.
    VO:Location
    Me:XXXXX
    VO:salary?
    ME:XXXXX usd.
    VO: both your visas are approved. have a good day.
    Me: have a good day.

    He did not ask any questions to my wife.
    Mine is a big MNC product company.

    Reply

    • Congrats Buddy 🙂

      For me also, my visa got approved and waiting to attend the interview in Hyderabad.

      I have a quick question. As you said, you attended the interview along with your wife, does your wife passport has your name included? Is it mandatory?

      Please let me know.

      Reply

      • @Prasad

        No, it is not required to have wife’s name in your passport.

        Note: This has been answered zillionth time in this forum and on the web.

        Reply

        • @IndiaGuy:
          Thanks for your reply. Not having my wife name in my passport is fine. But what about my name inclusion in my wife passport?

          Reply

          • @Prasad

            Choice is yours. My take is to get the name added when you apply for renewal. There is no point having spouse’s name added just for the heck of it. Nothing to worry as long as you have marriage certificate.
            You never know how long it’s gonna take for you to get a new passport with updated information.

    • Hi visa stamping done,
      Congrats first of all…..You are luck enough. Thanks for sharing your experience
      Others also, please start sharing their experiences, so that this forum page purpose will be solved fully.
      Thanks

      Reply

    • Congrats,
      I have a quick question, how to apply h4 visa for spouse, we need to ask company hr or while book the interview schedule date to apply spouse visa on same day. Please guide me how to apply h4 visa spouse same day for h1b visa.

      R.

      Reply

      • @R, You don’t have to ask the company HR. You can do it yourself.

        You need to fill DS160 first for yourself and submit. Then you will get a Thank You page, in which you will have a link to start another form for Family member. Fill the same and submit. You have to fill one DS160 form per person, who is going to attend the interview. Keep both the Application IDs of the forms that you have filled.

        Create a profile in Ustraveldocs and fill the details and you can add family members in the same profile. You will be asked to enter the DS160 application ID. Once you have filled all the details, you have to make the payment and then schedule the interview.

        Reply

    • Congrats…. just wanted to ask some questions regarding h1b visa can you mail me or inbox me your number to vfxvenky attherate gmail.com

      Reply

  18. Hi Experts/Lannister,
    I have got following RFE which is a kind of huge when comes to asking for information and contains following queries:

    The duties and responsibilities you have described are vague and do not clearly establish the need for an individual who
    possesses the minimum of a baccalaureate degree in a specific field of study. For example, you state the beneficiary will
    “participate in write, update, modify and be responsible for the custom program development and impleinentation.” It ;
    is unclear from this description how such duties would require the services of someone who holds the minimum of a
    baccalaureate degree in computer science or a related field. Therefore, further evidence is required.
    Submit a detailed statement to:
    – explain the beneficiary’s proposed duties and responsibilities,
    — indicate the percentage of time devoted to each duty,
    — state the educational requirements for these duties, and
    – explain how the beneficiary`s education relates to the position.

    The record does not establish that the job offered requires the services of a person performing a specialty occupation, i.e., the
    holder of at least a baccalaureate degree in a related field. The labor condition application you submitted indicates that
    tl1e beneficiary’s occupation title is a Computer Programmer. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook
    Handbook (OOH) describes the educational requirements for the occupation to be the following: “Most computer
    programmers have a bachelor‘s degree; however, some employers hire workers who have an associate’s degree.” Based
    on the OOH report, it appears that the bachelor’s degree in a specihc field of study directly related to the proffered
    position is not always required for the occupation of a Computer Programmer. You contend that the proffered position
    qualifies as a specialty occupation, however, simply going on record without supporting documentary evidence is not
    sufficient for meeting the burden of proof in these proceedings.
    Submit evidence showing that:
    — A baccalaureate or higher degree, or its equivalent, in a specific field of study is normally the minimum
    requirement for entry into the particular position; or
    – The proffered position is so complex or unique that it can be performed only by an individual with a degree
    in a specific field of study; or
    — In your company or industry, a baccalaureate degree in a specific field of study is a standard minimum
    requirement for the job offered. Attestations to industry standards must be for similar positions among
    similarly situated companies; or
    — The nature of the specific duties for the proffered position are so specialized and complex that the
    knowledge required to perform the duties is usually associated with the attainment of a baccalaureate or
    higher degree in a specific field of study.
    If you publicized the job opening, submitting tear sheets or other advertising documentation may help establish the
    educational requirements for the proffered position of Progranimer Analyst.
    If you have previously employed individuals in the position of Programmer Analyst, submit documentary evidence such
    as W-2 Forms and copies of degrees and transcripts to verify:
    – The number of individuals you have employed in this position in the past;
    – The level of education held by each individual; and
    – The field of study in which the degree was earned. ?..
    Submit documentation highlighting the nature, scope, and activity of your business enterprise along with evidence to
    establish the beneficiary will be employed with the duties you have set forth. Such evidence could include, but is not
    limited to:
    – Documentation describing your business, such as business plans, reports, presentations, promotional
    materials, newspaper articles, web—site text, news copy, etc.
    – A detailed description of the proffered position, to include approximate percentages of time for each duty
    the beneficiary will perform;
    – Copies of written contractual agreements or work orders from each of the companies who will utilize the
    beneficiary’s services to show the beneficiary will be performing duties of a specialty occupation;
    – Documentation of how many other individuals in your establishment are currently, or were, employed in
    this position, supported by copies of the employees’ degrees and evidence of employment such as pay stubs
    or Form W-2s, W-3s, or 1099s.

    Right to Control
    As an employer who seeks to sponsor a temporary worker in an H-IB specialty occupation, you are required to establish
    by a preponderance of the evidence that a valid employer-employee relationship will exist between you and the
    beneficiary, and that you have the right to control the beneficiary’s work, which may include the ability to hire, fire, pay
    and supervise the beneficiary. Also, you should be able to establish that the above elements will continue to exist
    throughout the duration of the requested H- IB validity period. You have requested a validity period from October l,
    2014 to August 15, 2017.
    In support of the petition, the following evidence was submitted to establish an employer-employee relationship;
    – An itinerary of services or engagements;
    ~ Copy of an employment offer letter;
    – Copies of a contractual agreement and a letter between your company and Voyage Services, Inc., the end-client
    company where the beneficiary will perform the work;
    – An informal position description; and
    – A description of the performance review process.

    Please guide me how to proceed with this.

    Sandeep.

    Reply

  19. short note for who are still waiting for decision on there petition that mine petition got approved yesterday (finally after around 4 months wait)

    receipt number: WAC141385*******
    Filled in California Center in regular processing (and no RFE, thank god)

    Reply

  20. Hello, I got RFE regarding about client letter/PO/SOW. Is it necessary to mentioned the client location in vendor letter which we have mentioned in LCA ? My vendor is not mention any client location in vendor letter. As per company policy, client does not provide any letter for immigration purpose. IF I submit the email from manger stated that “we are not provide any letter for immigration purpose “. Does it impact negative ?Does it impact to get approval for H1B? Thank You for your positive response.

    Reply

  21. Hi Experts/Lannister,

    My petition was filed from one project but right now since march 2014 I am working in another project. My employer is a MNC.My question is for the curent project, the SOW is vallid till Dec 2014 and then client will sign a new SOW from Jan 2015.

    I have no option but to carry this SOW for PAI. My question is will this pose a problem and will VO deny the visa?
    Also the immigration team in our company is not sharing client letter to carry for PAI. However they are providing a CIS notification letter and new LCA for the project change.

    Please advice whether not carrying client letter and an SOW valid till Dec 2014 will pose a problem. Very worried. Waiting for your replies eagerly
    Thanks in advance..

    Reply

  24. I got my I-797 for my H1B from October 1st 2014 till September 12th 2017, it just seems kinda odd to me that it is not till September 30th 2017 for a full 3 years, and that it is about 2 weeks short, is this normal?, or is this indicative of some sort of problem?. I am not concerned about the missing 2 weeks, I am concerned if this indicates some sort of issue.

    Thank you.

    Reply

  25. Hello, I need advise from an expert:

    My H1B petition was approved for 3 years a week ago (till Sept 2017), but my Wife’s H4 petition has not been approved yet.

    We are both currently in the U.S. under TN/TD Status, and my Wife wants to Travel outside the U.S. before October 1st (if possible).

    My questions are:

    1) It is my understanding that my status will automatically change to H1B on October 1 and I don’t need to get a new Visa since I am already here correct?.

    2) Prior to October 1st since I already got my petition approved, can I leave and reenter the U.S. using my TN Visa?

    3) Since my Wife still doesn’t have an approved H4 petition, it is my understanding that if she leaves the country right now, the petition is considered abandoned correct?

    4) If the petition is approved before October 1st, can she leave the country and reenter before October 1st using her TD Visa?

    5) This one I think is pretty obvious but after October 1st, if I leave the U.S., I have to get a H1B Visa stamped on my passport correct?.

    Thank you!

    Reply

    • once you leave the country to reenter you need valid VISA stamp on your passport. for 3 , she can leave us and there you can just submit DS-160 and she can get stamp not a problem.

      Reply

  27. Hi friends,
    I got rfe on july 19th after 10 days submitted the documents but still the status is rfe only. so when can I expect the result and how can we know they got documents or not

    Reply

  30. Hi Experts / Lannister,
    I have a question…..
    I have a valid petition with offer letter which is valid from 1st Oct 2014; but I’m still in India.
    I would like to get my mother B1/B2 visa for US.
    Can I sponsor my mother for B1/B2 with my offer letter as financial evidence and my valid stamping?
    Thanks

    Reply

    • IBM_HYD,

      Visa officer will look for your financial ability when you apply for VISA for your parents. If you have not been to US before or did not spend reasonable amount of time in US, then they might have concern on your financial ability to take care of your parents. They rejected VISA for one of my colleague parents when he was in US and already spent 6 months. But give a try…

      Reply

      • Hi IBM_BNG or any other expoert,
        Yes I do agree; If we are in USA, we need to show stable financial status to get our parents B1/B2 visa stamped.
        But, Cannot we take them with us in first go? Though we have shown equal financial status (10,000 USD == 6,00,000 INR) and we need parents support?
        Any other thoughts?

        @Lannister: Do you have any thoughts/Suggestions??
        Thanks

        Reply

        • Mostly they won’t approve your parents visa because parents visit their son/daughter for emotional support and right now you are already in India and VO will tell your parents you can have all the time with your son in India, he is here with you. Why there is a hurry to go to US when your son himself is in your own country.
          No point applying your parents visa right now, do it after 6 months of your stay in the US.
          Let me tell you something, getting visa for your brother would be very difficult even if you are staying in the US because most likely your brother will be viewed as a potential immigrant.

          Reply

          • One of my Accenture friend, who went for US H1b in July 2014.
            She was going to US for the first time.
            She was accompanied by her mother applying for B1/B2.

            Both got visa.

            This is real life example. Not an ‘Opinion’. But every case may be different.

          • @Nick
            Her mother might be having some health problem or some other justifiable reason. May be she is the only kid of her parents and the one who is taking care of her mom. It could be possible that her father is not alive or mother is sick. Unless there is a genuine reason behind it, VO will not grant VISA.

          • Hi Indiguy/Nick,
            Thanks for sharing your views/thoughts/ideas.
            Yes, do agree with Indiguy up to some extend and absolutely I’m not in hurry to take my mother me.
            Only one thing in my mind is, again I have to request some help for entire followup and process to get my mother B1/B2.
            Now only my plan is get my mother B1/B2 stamp and I can take her later point also.
            Any other views/thoughts from experts?
            Thanks

    • depends. usually they reject visas or give visa for a short duration for working persons/parents. For non working you can try. but its always good for you to go there first and call them, since they need addresses, cover letter form you etc.

      Reply

  31. Hello BR,

    Congrats 🙂
    You are from which company? Did you send the Client letter?
    What all docs you sent?

    Please reply.

    Thanks

    Reply

  32. Thank god almighty but still fingers crossed !!

    After continuously following up with the mobility from last 3-4 days, finally I come to know that my petition is approved. I raised the request(myrequest) and have been after mobility team.
    But still I am waiting for the official word in my mailbox.

    All the best to other guys. Cheers!!

    Reply

    • Congrats dude…Even I am after them for last few weeks but as on yesterday, mine is in initial review. Though they mentioned on the call that now chances for RFE are virtually 0% and mostly we will get the approval by 2-3rd week of aug..

      Reply

      • I am expecting an official mail from RMS by 3rd week of August. I just want to see that email before I start jumping in joy !!

        Reply

          • This is weird !! Mobility team informed me that my petition is approved when I raised the request. Now, I have just received an email from PMSD that decision is awaiting.

          • You can may be call them again to confirm. Though, in my opinion, the status that was communicated with myrequest response would be the latest and correct one.

          • Hi.
            I got an accepted lottery mail in may 2014.but today got a mail stating awaiting approval from USCIS. what can b d reason for this wait. Please can you tell me as I hve not got any RFE MAIL as well.

  33. Rosy,
    Just wait till August 15th or 31st…..The actual waiting time is 2.5 months…..seems u will get b4 15th…..All day best.

    Reply

  34. Hi guys,
    I had a question.. The USCiS website says after RFE response review to wait for 60 days and they will update us within that timeframe.
    What if 60 days are complete. What sre the next steps we should follow.
    Should we ask our employer to check with USCIS or simply wait .

    Reply

    • If 60 days are up then your attorney/employer can follow up with USCIS. But there is no guarantee to receive any affirmative response as such. 60 days window is set for normal condition when there is not much of rush for H1-B petition, but in the current scenario, overall workload on USCIS it way beyond what they usually expect and delay is evident.
      These are just my thoughts, you should contact your attorney for further help with your case.

      Reply

  35. Hi All,

    When do we get to know how the VISA is approved for ? Is it during the Stamping or is it during the decision itself ?

    Reply

      • @Sandeep – You are wrong.

        @Accenture Bangalore
        It is “During stamping “.

        Decision on H1-B petition is not a visa, it is an authorization of work.

        A visa is travel document that one have to apply for to visit certain countries that mandates visa approval prior to travel. Visa is not a work permit or authorization, it’s a legal document to enter a country from a valid port of entry.

        Reply

        • During decision they will put some comments on your case, thats way VO will ask you some sought of questions in some cases they won’t ask anything they will just check the comments on your case during decision.

          Reply

          • Thats good info. My case moved from Acceptance-PDA-Decision. Is it related to what you are saying?

          • @Sandeep

            Where did you get this info? Some insider in USCIS and US Consulate? USCIS and Consular process are two separate things. If there is a concern in the USCIS official’s mind about a case then they will issue RFE. Of course all the details are available to the VO when they look for an individuals I797 approval notice, everything is accessible to them when you go for Visa stamping.
            Questions are asked when VO finds something suspicious. They usually
            question candidates who get H1-B through small time desi consultancy or the desi services company.

  37. Hi Friends,

    Yesterday I have collected my stamped PP from the collection center.
    Sharing my experience :
    I went to visa interview on 24th and 25th July (24th OFC and 25th actual interview).
    I went to US consulate, New Delhi.
    OFC is just formality, just the finger prints nothing else.
    The D-Day was 25th and turned out to be my lucky day.
    VO : which city you will be going?
    ans : *****
    VO : what you will be doing there?
    ans : ****
    VO : ‘Your visa is approved, you will get your passports in 2-3 business days”.

    I was dying to hear those four magical words.
    This was my second attempt for H1B. I got 221G in Year 2012 at Singapore US consulate. This was my fresh petition.
    I don’t have client letter in both petitions but in Singapore VO asked and in Delhi he didn’t.
    There is no tips in the end it’s sheer luck, be calm and try to give answers precisely(Be specific and precise, for the second question I didn’t say single word for which client, which project). Because more we say, it will attract VO for cross examine.

    P.S: 1. Please don’t be too happy after visa approval as Visa interview can change all this happiness, one 221G and that will be gone(Like it happened with me at Singapore)
    2. Take whatever document you have with you (sent by your petitioner and even your copies) and keep them in separate folders so that you can present them with no delay.
    3. Please don’t listen to the people which are interviewed in front of you at various windows, as you can be easily distracted with lot of emotions.

    Last but not the least, thanks to all the guys who has supported me on this forum.
    All the Best to you guys.

    Reply

    • Congrats a lot !

      I am also planning to give interview from Singaproe US consulate, Can you please let me know why they issued 221G and what was difference from Delhi? Your experience will be very helpful. Thanks !

      Reply

      • What I have read from many posts that getting visa from Singapore is too tough as Singapore is in Cap-exempt countries and that’s why VOs are too strict.
        But as I told you it’s sheer luck. I got two 221G at Singapore consulate for same petition, they have asked me client letter, letter from reporting manager (at Client) that they are expecting me ,W-2 forms, work place photos, as I said in Delhi VO didn’t ask anything.
        Do you have client letter? Big Organization? If yes to both questions then be positive and keep your fingers crossed.

        Reply

  38. Hi,
    Any IBMer from Hyderabad location is Attending/Attended Visa stamping interview.
    If so, can you please share your experiences.
    Thanks

    Reply

  39. I hve nt obtained any response yet..submittd in the mid of July..due date was July 30..nt sure whn this wait will end

    Reply

  40. Hello,
    My petition got approved today!!! 🙂
    Notice date: 04/21
    RFE : 05/29 (client letter, SOW, Resume, Onsite Manager’s responsibility)
    RFE response : 07/25
    Approval : 08/04
    WAC141415xxxx

    All the best for those waiting for approval.

    Reply

  41. Hi,

    I got RFE and one of the documents requested for is Itinerary of Service. My employer is now asking me to prepare one(they provided a sample document, but I don’t understand much from it). Please can someone advice what this document is and who should be responsible for preparing this document. Is it the employer or employee?
    Thanks

    Reply

    • As far as i know it should be prepared by you and get it attested from your Delivery Head/Lead. It is the roles and responsibilities you will carry on during your tenure time.

      Reply

    • It is Complete itinerary of services , it has about client and project description and your roles and responsibilities, detailed itinerary of the beneficiary for the entire period like ex: from nov 2014 to april 2015 what are the tasks you can deliver this needs to provide for atleast 2 years , and needs to attested with your onsite delivery manager/project manager

      Reply

  42. Hi

    I got RFE on 24th July. One of the documents they asked for is Itinerary of Services. My employer is asking me to prepare this document(they provided some samples, I couldn’t understand much from that).Please can anyone advice Who should be responsible for preparing this document?

    Thanks in Advance.

    Reply

  43. Mine is at initial review stage since 22nd april.. I tried to submit e-request today but it didn’t allow me and gave this following error:

    “Your application or petition is currently within the posted processing times. An inquiry may not be created at this time. Further information about recent processing times can be viewed on the uscis.gov webpage.”

    Well, i know it is out of the processing time..why it didn’t allow me to submit e-request? Please reply
    I heard USCIS server crashing news today..Is the application is at initial review because of down server?

    Reply

    • Being waiting on EAC14144 since April 10 on initial review too. The server issue may be a reason for the delay. I am thinking about logging an e-request too. Keep me posted.

      Reply

      • @Patience wearing out..
        I tried to submit e-request last night but it didn’t allow me and gave this following error:

        “Your application or petition is currently within the posted processing times. An inquiry may not be created at this time. Further information about recent processing times can be viewed on the uscis.gov webpage.”

        the normal processing time is 2 months which has already been exceeded. Its been almost 4 months. I don’t understand what is going on.

        You also please share if you are able to submit e-request. Mine is EAC141375*****

        Reply

    • IMO, you guys should avoid doing anything that you are not suppose to do. It is your employer/attorney who filed your petition and not you. You have no reason to contact USCIS and even if you are able to then you will not be given any reply. Only your employer/attorney should communicate with USCIS.

      Reply

  44. Hi Team,

    I got RFE on May 29th. But still my employer haven’t submitted the required documents to USCIS. out attorney is BAL. They are not responding to my mails too. can anyone suggest, will taking more time affect my petition approval process. ?what should i do now?

    Reply

    • Just relax and wait.

      One thing you may want to know is that usually the attorney reports to the petitioner (your boss) only. That could be why they are not very interested in responding your mails.

      Unless you are in a big hurry to get visa, it doesn’t really matter how long it takes as long as your RFE response is submitted on time and satisfies all the queries. Getting approved is the most important and only thing we care about here, isn’t it?

      Good luck!

      Reply

  46. Hi Folks,

    am planning to attend H1b stamping interview so i asked my employer to provide client letter then they gave me 5 client letters stating that they have contract with my employer that’s it.None of client letters are having my name on it.It is clearly stating that my employer will work from clients.

    are those documents are enough or do i need to have name on client letter?

    Reply

    • check your LCA for which location they filed your LCA and take that client letter, in some cases client letter can not mention employee name, for some cases clients will give only employer name with specified technology, you can use that letter as ref to client letter

      Reply

  47. Hi ,I am dot net developer with 5+ exp.can anyone tell me how much i can get monthly salary and take home in USA ?Thanks in advance.

    Reply

    • The salary depends on the minimum wage of the state you’ll work and how much the employer think your knowledge is worth for the company. I believe that time of experience does not necessarily implicates the level of expertise and knowledge a professional has.

      Reply

      • of course if you are from desi biggies, you get a standard 60-70 k for your level and experience. In hand comes around to 4000-4300. Of course you can save 3000 from that if you stay in a 10+ guys in a 2 BHK…:)

        Reply

  48. hello Experts,

    I need to ask one silly Question, specially to the people who had already gone through this INTERVIEW Process.
    i need to schedule my interview for H1-B, what do i need to do in order to schedule my interview, if anybody can share authentic link for online DS160, and what else do i need to do beside this, please share correct procedure, any sincere help would be appreciated!
    thanks & good luck to all!

    Reply

    • https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ fill this ds-160 and once you submit you will get CEAC confirmation number with that number you can schedule OFC/Interview

      Reply

  49. Hello everyone,

    My Petition approved 1 week back (NON-AD/PP) but petition status not getting changed to “Post decision Activity” from “Decision”. Can anyone tell me when Status changed to “Post decision Activity”. Is it like i have to initiate Interview process then it gonna change? How it actually change and how much time it takes?

    Thanks

    Reply

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