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H1B Visa 2015 – Frequently Asked Questions – Updates

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. I got my receipt number, but didn’t find my case status in USCIS website. Mine is EAC.. any one facing same problem? Please help me if anyone know how to get updates.

    Reply
  2. Vermont started approving petitions.

    EAC1413554150
    EAC1413554156
    EAC1413554159

    Any body else got approved?

    Reply
  3. They have sent mine to Vermont center, is there any tracker where we can see the no of receipts issued so far ? Is it already 65 ? I belong to regular normal processing.. A painful wait

    Reply
  4. yesterday’s California service center last receipt: WAC1414455016

    Most of them are Regular Processing with dated April10.

    Good Luck to ALL!!!

    Reply
      • Very Simple Logic:

        Typical Receipt No : WAC-14-XXX-5-XXXX

        In the above example WAC/EAC says whether it is California /Vermont respectively.
        14 – Current Year.
        XXX- This says Fiscal date(yesterday fiscal date is 144 that means that is 144 the day of the fiscal year. Tomorrow it will be 145 and goes on)
        5 – This is default and stable number.
        XXXX – last digits say your case number in the row it starts with 0001 for the receipt.

        So, WAC1414450001 is the first receipt of the 144th day of 2014 fiscal year from California center.

        I guess you understood what is the logic behind this.

        USCIS keep increasing the number with the no of receipts they are generating/updating.

        Reply
      • Those may include both. Nobody can say whether it is AD/Regualar.

        We can say only whether those Premium/Regular Processing.

        Reply
  5. Its really irritating to wait even in knowing whether our application would be considered for processing. I wonder y USCIS s not taking an effort in upgrading or stabilizing this process. Don’t u think it wud b relieving for both the ends if they publish the results online as a whole on the website just like the education results? May be they could use passport or any other number as reference. . I m sure this s not going to b tough for them to implement, US being so called “technologically sound” country.

    Reply
    • I totally agree.. What kind of outdated process is this? Are we living in stone age? There is no standard process, everything is just based on speculation. There are no updated provided to people who are eagerly waiting to be out of this horrific wait period. It is just incredible how this has been going on for so many years and it’s just getting worse and worse every year!

      Reply
    • Thats called RAW data….. and you know the power of raw….!! They can get sued for any irregularity in their processes.

      Its been almost 25 days and they didn’t even get chance to update numbers.
      http://www.uscis.gov/working-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations-and-fashion-models/h-1b-fiscal-year-fy-2015-cap-season

      Reply
  6. Did anyone receive any updates on Non-AD / Regular processing /Vermont yet? Request everyone to post only correct info.

    Reply
  7. @Chan,

    I am not frustrated, just angry (there is a difference) at the unfair system. What gets more annoying is when these visas are wasted..

    They have they option of L1B.. we dont have that.. if it is true and genuine case those guys should apply for L1B

    It is not so easy to get a job here after graduation, and even after that if suddenly someone takes away everything you earned at the flip of a coin, it is very upsetting and demotivating for people to work hard.

    Anyway , I have started working on other plans. Hopefully our hardwork will be appreciated in a different place/country.

    Good luck to you! 🙂

    Good luck to you Chan!

    Reply
    • @ADPPCA,

      I agree with you totally. did you hear about the Canadian system? they have a special place for Canada educated students.

      Did you see that Vermont center issuing notices today for AD students ?
      So please keep up your hopes, or wait till you get the return package.

      I am waiting too – I am non AD from CA .

      Reply
      • @I am waiting too

        I guess I will look around more at Canada, I really want a more stable working environment.

        My company said they can try to look into J1, l1b , O1 etc .. but these are still risky.

        all the best to you too!

        I am still hopeful, but i would like to be mentally prepared..

        Reply
    • @ADPPCA

      Thanks for your wishes. 🙂
      The problem L1 visas, atleast with respect to India is that they are rejected as such. Only grades above Manager are applying for L1 visas and the count is pretty low. The only option available to avail work at US for everyone else is H1b.

      Irrespective of degree / non-degree, we have dedicated and hard working people like you everywhere. I have seen fellow people who couldn’t do MS at US due to lack of funding. Hence it’s sad that the quota is less.
      If quota were increased, then jopbs for US citizens would be impacted. Hence everyone’s in an uncomfortable position at the moment 🙂

      People with talent will shine anywhere. Luck can only give an initial boost. So it’s natural that we look at brighter prospects, who knows you might be the next Bill gates / mark zuckerberg.. 🙂

      Reply
      • There are two types on L1 visas.. L1A and L1B. For L1A there is a requirement that you have to be manager level, not necessarily managing people but in a managing function. For L1B there is no such requirement. So you can apply under L1B if that’s an option for you. The only drawback is that L1B is one time 5 year visa which cannot be renewed. So you will eventually have to keep trying for H1B every year until you get so called LUCKY! Look into L1B.

        Reply
  8. Got selected in the lottery, AD/RP Vermont center.
    Received date: 10th April , Notice date: 17th April
    EAC14137****
    Received email from attorney a few hours back.
    Best of luck to everyone!

    Reply
  9. artificial demand is being created for H1B visa.

    If only Indian IT companies apply on need basis, I’m sure there wont be a lottery

    Reply
    • how i wish!!

      Some of these people finally wont even come here due to “no projects”

      They should make H1b cap other way round.. 65K for US grads/ undergrads / ppl already in US and 20 K for body shoppers!

      Reply
        • Body shoppers ??? Man if you have any guts you can pressure on us govt to increase 65 k quota . You know how much we paid for MS , get cultured in different environment cold , snow and hot temperatures .

          You can’ t comment like that . We already in USA so you mean we don”t want to get H1B visas .

          Best of luck for every one .

          Reply
      • @ADPPCA:
        I can understand that you’re stressed. But I want you to look back upon your post and see if it makes sense. Can we have 65000 seats (out of say 30000 applications ) for AD and 20000 seats (for the remaining 1,50,000).
        What we can wish for is more number of seats than 85000.
        and regarding
        Body shopping: Yes it might happen, but not everywhere. It’s the basic rule of supply and demand.

        It’s not over until you get the rejected application. And heaven fornid, if that happens, then I would request you to guide your frustation in a positive direction so that you can see better opportunities.

        Reply
    • They should implement new Rules. H1B employee need to travel USA with in 3 months of Start date mentioned in LCA otherwise $10k fine to the employer. i saw many guys who is having valid visa not even onetime travelled to USA due to no projects.

      Reply
    • YES – I am waiting anxiously too- it seems the more I read the more anxious I get at times, but watching news would not help me to divert my thoughts away from the redbus to us site. US grads should be given first preference, or open another component to the system. We come here with full of hopes and been here for years and years studying and working hard.
      We deserve a lot more better !!!!

      Reply
      • Dude, that was totally your choice to do your MS in the US. You know that it will be a struggle, you know you will have to bare it all, you know it will strip you of all your money, but you still took it up “your choice”
        And pls, dont compare your 2yr course with 5-10yrs of getting ones hands dirty with experience in the IT industry. Your so called body shoppers fair much better at IT than the so called MS grads with no exprnce at IT..

        Respect all, and you will be too…

        All the best !!!!

        Reply
  10. Got picked in lottery. Receive date 10 april. Notice date 21 April. Lawyer got the mail 6 hours back.
    WAC14150***

    All the best for everyone!

    Reply
  11. For California center
    last receipt for RP was generated was wac1414454104
    for PP wac1414453680 was generated on april 24

    Your Request for Premium Processing Service for your I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was received on April 24, 2014. We mailed you a receipt with information about processing. We will mail you a decision as soon as processing is complete.

    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. USCIS reviews the applicant’s/petitioner’s criminal history, determines if there are national security concerns that need to be addressed, and reviews the application/petition for fraud indicators.

    This means they are still processing PP Process.. So Guys Don’t loose hope

    Reply
    • “Your Request for Premium Processing Service for your I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was received on April 24, 2014”

      It was received on April 24, which means it’s not cap-based.

      Please don’t mislead people.

      Reply
  12. I think Vermont is still sending receipts for AD Regular processing.
    Once this is done it is done Regular quota Regular processing will be done.
    Given the heavy load on Vermont, it’s justifiable that there is a delay in displaying the receipt numbers.

    Be patient friends.

    Reply
  13. Hi Folks,
    My wife received her receipt number today. NON-Advanced degree/Regular Processing/California Center.
    All the Best everyone !!

    Reply
  14. From 28th April USCIS going to start processing Premium Application does this means till that point all receipts will be sent out.
    I am Non AD/Regular so should I consider 28th April as Last Day of Hope?

    Reply
    • last receipt for RP was generated was wac1414454104
      for PP wac1414453680 was generated on april 24

      Your Request for Premium Processing Service for your I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was received on April 24, 2014. We mailed you a receipt with information about processing. We will mail you a decision as soon as processing is complete.

      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. USCIS reviews the applicant’s/petitioner’s criminal history, determines if there are national security concerns that need to be addressed, and reviews the application/petition for fraud indicators.

      This means they are still processing PP Process.. So Guys Don’t loose hope

      Reply
    • Checked DSO for SEVIS update and there is none … Employer check has not been cashed either … It’s really getting depressing for me

      Reply
      • where are you located?
        I am in south and waiting for receipt.
        I didn’t call my attorney. On Monday I checked with the employer, the check was not cashed. I start to work in a week using CPT.
        I decide to calm down to watch TV or something else. This is really stressful.

        Reply
        • I am located in NY but my employer is located in Texas … He had applied for 8 AD and everyone got it except me … But per him out of these 7 applications 3 were applied to california and 5 to Vermont … Don’t now what to do … My opt stem extension is expiring on 1st July 2014 … Are there any options for me to continue my status in case I am not selected !!!

          Reply
    • So, it means that if pp can’t get it within this month, it means USCIS is going to send out not-selected result next month.

      Reply
  15. i have seen some PP receipts getting generated today on vermont centre but with date as 24th. Does that mean it’s not in this yr cap?

    On April 24, 2014, we received this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER and we e-mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case

    Reply
  16. Make sure u dont keep space betweenEAC and 1413****
    Coz if u keep its not visible at all and it says can not found.mine is EAC14138508** (AD/RP/VT) but its trackable and dated on 17th.it was not trackable till yesterday noon but 1 pm it started and i saw my status as initial review.interesting thing is i haven’t received receipt yet,i mean my employer or attorney till today but check was cashed yesterday and i found out SEVIS change from DSO with my receipt number.so please guys try to check with DSO.its very easy to say for them.it took one minute for my DSO to reply me back my email with good news.
    So if u haven’t got receipt yet ..don’t loose hope and wait with faith and hope.
    Best of luck to all of u guys…

    Reply
  17. Does anyone know whether they still issue receipt nr. this week?
    From what I see, most of people got receipt numbers were issued last week.
    I am getting really depressed.
    I am at AD/RP/VT. Who is AD still waiting?

    Reply
  18. Received receipt from USCIS. My case processed in California center.
    Thank god! Good luck others…!Mine is Regular processing and Regular quota.

    Reply
  19. Thank god!! Lucky this year. Got through in lottery….Yet to receive the receipt number from the employer…

    RQ/RP/VT

    No words to explain my feeling right now. its 4:30 am in India…

    Reply
  20. This is a good question. If you check has not been cashed does this been that your receipt has not been issued and sent too?

    Reply
  21. Latest Number from Vermont: EAC1414354073

    Guys.. look at EAC1414354068.. Premium processing is still going on at VT..

    Initial Review

    Your Request for Premium Processing Service for your I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was received on April 24, 2014. We mailed you a receipt with information about processing. We will mail you a decision as soon as processing is complete.

    Reply
  22. Dear all,
    I am on h4 now and applied for h1 this year. What would be my alternate options for work permit if i didnt make out through lottery.Suggestions please.

    Thanks !!!

    Reply
  23. Hi guys,
    I have received my receipt number from my attorney today. (Non-AD/Non-PP)
    Notice date 04/21/2014. So, I think they just started mailing out.
    Keep your hopes up, you may receive it anytime.

    Reply

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