If you were one of the unlucky ones not picked in whopping 233,000 H1B 2016 Lottery Applications , you might be already wondering when is the next H1B season going to start. Also, some of you may be studying in US and some working abroad and planning to work in US next year. This page will be constantly updated with the latest details and commonly asked questions around the next upcoming H1B Visa fiscal year of 2017 season news and updates.
[alert type=”warning” close=”false” heading=”H1B Visa Cap reached for FY 2017, Lottery Done “] On April 7th, H1B Cap for FY 2017 was reached. Lottery was done on April 9th. Read News Summary – Over 236,000 Petitions for FY2017 [/alert]
- H1B 2017 season start date ?
- H1B Cap for FY 2017- Regular ? Masters ?
- H1B 2017 Predictions? Lottery?
- H1B Lottery Myths ?
- How to plan for H1B FY 2017 ?
- How to find H1B Sponsors for FY 2017 ?
- What is H1B Fee ? Details
- Any impact of Comprehensive Immigration Reform(CIR) on H1B
- What is H1B LCA
- H1B 2017 Premium Processing
- H1B 2017 Case Tracker
- Latest News Update of H1B 2017
- When is the next H1B Season ?
- Sample H1B Reject Notices for FY 2017
When will the H1B visa 2017 season start ? Date ?
Short answer April 1st 2016. Typically, USCIS will start to accept petitions for the next fiscal year starting from April 1st of the previous fiscal year. USCIS fiscal year is from October 1st to September 30th. So, for H1B quota of fiscal year 2017, which starts from October 1st, 2017, USCIS would typically accept applications from April 1st, 2016. The H1B Visa 2016 season started on April 1st of 2015. Also, in the H1B Rejected Notices of 2016, USCIS mentioned that, the non-selected candidates can file H1B petitions for FY 2017 on or after April 1st, 2016.
USCIS announced on March 16th, 2016 that they will accept FY 2017 petitions from April 1st, 2016. Read Summary of USCIS press release FY 2017 .
Also, we have written an article summarizing on What to expect in H1B FY 2017 Season
What is H1B 2017 Cap ? What are the H1B 2017 Quota numbers ? Regular vs Masters ?
If you new to H1B, I suggest you read All about H1B Visa Cap- Regular vs Masters. In simple terms H1B cap is a congressional mandated maximum number of petitions that USCIS can accept in a year. As of now, below are the H1B cap number for fiscal year 2017. The below numbers are confirmed in press release by USCIS on Mar 16, 2016.
- Regular H1B Quota : 65,000
- H1B Master’s Degree Quota ( only US Master Degrees) : 20,000
- Out of the above, a total of 6,800 is usually set aside for Singapore and Chile citizens as part of the free trade agreement between them.
There have been many discussions around change in H1B cap numbers by Obama administration since 2013. The planned proposal was to increase the regular quota cap to 110,000 and Masters quota to 25,000. No changes for FY 2017, the above numbers of 65,000 and 20,000 are officially confirmed by USCIS in their press release.
What is H1B Visa 2017 Prediction? Will there be Lottery again for FY 2017
Update : USCIS Updated on April 12th, 2016 that they have received over 236,000 petitions for FY 2017 quota and the lottery was completed on April 9th.
Looking at the past trend of H1B season in the past three years, we could very likely have lottery for FY 2017. Last year for FY 2016 quota, there were 233,000 applications. We have done a detail analysis with the H4 Visa EAD rule in place considering the economy, students graduating, OPT news, etc. You should read article H1B Visa 2017 Lottery Prediction News, results, Date .
If H1B lottery, will there be any preference in lottery for Large companies ? Premium Processing
Well, no preference for anyone, all are treated equally, including premium processing. There are many such misconceptions about lottery process, we have compiled a list of such myths and criteria, you should read Myths of H1B Lottery, Criteria
When to plan for H1B visa 2017 Application ? How soon ? What should be the strategy ?
It is never too late to start planning for your H1B 2017 season. If you plan to work in US on H1B visa in the next coming fiscal year, below are some suggestions based on your situation.
- F1 Student in USA : If you are studying on F1 visa and about to graduate in next one year, you should seriously look at finding an internship or co-op at companies that can sponsor your H1B visa. You can search for H1B Sponsors in a particular area using our H1B Sponsors Search Tool and try to get an internship to work there on CPT or OPT after you graduate. This is a strategic move and will require sometime, so plan well.
- Professional from outside USA : If you are a working professional outside US, planning to work in US on H1B, your best bet is to find Multinational companies that have major US presence and secure a job there, so that you can position internally for applying to H1B visa, when the season starts. This is a very strategic decision, you need to carefully assess your options, speak to the company if such options exist and then only choose it.
- Other H4, L1 Visas : If you are on these visas, your best bet is to find companies just like I mentioned for F1 students that sponsor H1B visas and start interviewing and keeping the conversation going so that you can ask them to file H1B when the season starts.
We have put together a Step by Step Plan on How to apply for H1B 2017 Quota
How do I find a H1B Visa Sponsor – The most asked million dollar question ?
If you are student in the US, it is very straight forward, you find the list of H1B Sponsoring companies using the tool in an area as I mentioned above and get an internship in one of them so that they can sponsor your H1B visa. Unlike, if you are coming from outside US, it can be tricky. If you work for an Multinational company ( MNC), then they will have some internal process to pick the candidates and then process H1B visa for them…The other option that has been used and abused is the consulting companies route…Many a times, the H1B aspirants approach a body shop IT consulting company to file H1B for them and they apply for the same. It gets nasty with the body shop consulting companies. The comments on this H1B Companies Reviews article are quite eye opening. I advise, you beware of the consulting companies and avoid fraud. Also, WE as RedBus2US do NOT provide any guidance or assistance or sponsor anything. If someone claims that, it is pure fraud and they are trying to trick you, we are not responsible for that. Please be careful. Anyways, for various other options , You may read article How to find H1B 2017 Sponsors
What is the H1B visa 2017 filing fee ? Is it same or any changes ?
It changed slightly this year with the Omnibus Bill passed in December 2015, that will increase the H1B filing fee by $4000 for FY 2017, until 2025 for certain companies that have over 50 employees and have more than 50% of their employees as H1B or L1 visa holders in USA. Check USCIS Guidelines on H1B Fee increase. Depending on the size of the company, the H1B filing fee can vary anywhere from $1,600 USD to $7,400 USD + Attorney Fee. There are various fees components that make up this number range, for more details Read Summary of H1B Filing Fee 2017 – Who pays for What ? . Below is a high level summary. Also, one key change is that, there was $2000 USD additional filing fee as per Public Law 111-230, this law expired on Sep 30, 2015 and that is not included anymore.
| H1B Fee Component | Fee in USD |
| Base filing fee | $325 |
| AICWA Fee | $750 or $1,500 |
| Fraud prevent & detection fee | $500 |
| Fee based on Public Law 114-113 ( if applicable) | $4000 |
| Premium processing fee (Optional) | $1,225 |
| Immigration Attorney Fee | Varies from $500 to $3000 |
What about Comprehensive Immigration Reform(CIR) and Obama Executive Actions for H1B 2017 Quota Increase ?
There has been many articles and discussions since 2013 around immigration reform by President Obama and changes around and some like below have been discussed in the last couple of years, nothing moved significantly.
- H1B Cap to be increased from 65,000 to 110,000 per year. Also have provisions to have it up to 180,000 in case of extreme demand.
- Advanced degree from US cap quota to increase from 20,000 to 25,000
- The Filing fee for H1B could go up to 10,000 USD ( Part of this came up as the fee increase in Omnibus Bill )
- Additional H1B rules to avoid H1B Visa fraud by employers
- Mandatory LCA posting for 30 days before it is certified.
The current status on all of the above are basically “No updates”, there are no set deadlines for any of them and none of these are happening for FY 2017. You may read Summary of CIR Changes to H1B . Officially as per press release on March 16, 2016, the H1B cap is confirmed to be 65,000 for regular and 20,000 for masters…hence, no changes.
What is LCA for H1B Visa ? Processing times ?
LCA is a form that has to be filed with US Dept of Labor and get it certified before filing H1B petition with USCIS. It has to be sent along with H1B Package to USCIS. It has all the relevant information about the job position like wage, location, title, etc. It takes about 7 working days for processing of the LCA by US Dept of Labor (DOL). You can read complete details at Why is LCA Needed for H1B – Processing Time, Salary
USCIS Updated in their original press release on March 16, 2016 that the premium processing will begin no later than May 16, 2016. But, on April 22nd, they updated that the premium processing for FY 2017 will begin on May 12th, 2016. What it means is that the official 15 calendar day SLA for premium processing petitions will be starting from 12th. USCIS may process the petitions early as well, but officially their clock starts on that day.
H1B 2017 Case Tracker :
Did you apply for FY 2017 ? We have put together a tracker along with good graphs for analysis. It is completely anonymous as we do not capture your case number or any personal information. It is community contributed data, the more you add, the better for everyone, including You !
[prompt type=”left” title=”Track your H1B Case” message=” Anonymously Track your H1B Case – Share and Get updated from Community.” button_text=”H1B 2017 Case Tracker” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/h1b-visa-tracker/”]
Most Recent News of FY 2017 H1B
Below is the most recent news regarding H1B 2017 season. You can check the updates page as indicated below for the full history and details.
- July 8th, 2016 ( Official ) : USCIS released a press note today indicating that they have completed returning all the petitions that were not selected in the H1B lottery for FY 2017. Read More details here
- May 2nd, 2016 ( Official Update ) : USCIS updated that data entry is complete for selected petitions in lottery. if you were selected, you should receive receipt notices in 2 to three weeks. If not, the chances are very slim to get selected. You should look at your plan B. Read H1B Data Entry Complete Article for full details
- April 22nd, 2016 : (Official Update) USCIS Updated that they will start premium processing from May 12th, instead of May 16th.
- April 12th, 2016 – 6:30 PM EST : Official Update : USCIS released a press note that H1B lottery was completed on April 9th and they received over 236,000 petitions for FY 2017 quota. Read Press Release Summary
- April 12th, 2016 – 11:50 AM CST ( Unofficial Update ) : It is reported on blog by attorney ( immigrationgirl ) that they have received about 40 email receipts of Premium Processing. What it means is that USCIS has already conducted lottery. We will keep you posted with updates. If I am not wrong, they are just drafting the press release now.
[prompt type=”left” title=”H1B 2017 – Latest News Updates” message=” Most recent and complete history of all latest breaking news updates from Official sources like USCIS and Unofficial sources for FY 2017 Season.” button_text=”Latest H1B 2017 News” href=”https://redbus2us.com/h1b-visa-2017-cap-count-updates-tracker-news/”]
When is the next H1B Season ?
The next H1B season starts on April 1st, 2017. Wondering about your next chance for H1B and various details about the next H1B season, check out H1B Visa 2018 FAQs
Sample H1B Reject Notices for FY 2017 ?
USCIS has started to mail out the reject notices for FY 2017 petitions that were not picked in lottery. It says that the start date for next year H1B season is April 1, 2017. You can check out the Sample Reject Notice for FY 2017, Details
We have many more FAQs around H1B Visa 2017. We will continue to keep updating the page with latest news and updates regarding FY 2017. Bookmark this page and keep checking for updates.
Hi Saurabh,
I have been through the lottery from company A and my company A haven’t provided me the receipt number saying they would only if case approved.mean while i have got an offer from Company B.now if i move out of company A will my Lottery still hold good or will it be cancelled?
also plz let me know if i can move on and appear for an interview from company B if my case get approved.
Please don’t move out of company A until your case is approved and you get a copy of i797. It is stupidity. Someone had done this mistake previously and posted in the forum. company A can withdraw the petition when you leave and your h1b will be wasted. DO NOT DO THAT !!!!
Please dont do that. Please dont move out of company A until your case is approved and you get the copy of i797 notice. It is stupidity. Someone had done same mistake previously and posted it in this forum. Your company can withdraw the petition when you leave and you h1b will be wasted. So please do not do that !!
Company Switch,
Agree w/ h1bAdvisor’s comment. If you change employers now, A would withdraw the petition and you will be out of cap as your petition is not approved yet.
Hi Saurabh,
I applied H1b Through one of the company A selected in Lottery but still Case status “Case was received “ still yet to approve. Meanwhile my current company B in India applying L1B Visa and i should be travelling by December if L1B approved.
My Questions is –
1) Can i process L1B and H1b Parallel?
2) If i travel on L1B to US can i change the status H1B without coming to India?.
3) Would you suggest me to Prolong L1B until H1B approval status comes out?.
4) Would you suggest H1 or L1B
5) Which is good for GC Process?
Please help me to take decision
1) Can i process L1B and H1b Parallel?
yes, you can. there is no conflicts.
2) If i travel on L1B to US can i change the status H1B without coming to India?.
yes, you can do a L1b to H1b COS(change of status) without going for stamping when you are in US. But if you coming out from US, you have to do h1b stamping and then enter.
3) Would you suggest me to Prolong L1B until H1B approval status comes out?.
go for L1b and travel. later you can change to h1b from US once you get right opportunity. I hope it is through some consultancy. Check with them and they will be open to that. But tell them only after you H1b is approved and you get i797.
4) Would you suggest H1 or L1B
both has its own pros and cons.
L1b, you cant change jobs. but your spouse can work with a EAD.
h1b, you can change jobs. but your spouse cant work.
5) Which is good for GC Process?
If it is L1A, you could apply GC in EB1 category. You will get it soon.
otherwise, both will take same time( consider in EB2)
Thanks for the info .
Is it worth making H1B case to premium now?
Regular h1b process will take max 6 months. Since you already waited for 5 months, wait for another 1 month. If things are not going to happen in next month, there is something wrong with the processing or they purposefully delaying it due to some reason. In Oct, you can upgrade to premium.
h1b-premium_not worth doing,
H-1B regular processing has no fixed time. So its incorrect to say it is 6 months max. It may extend well beyond 6th month.
Even one month is precious since interview bookings are not available. Go ahead and do it.
Last year it went on till December for a lot of people.
Whats the purpose of doing it in OCT?
Damn – the russian site has copied the entire idea and apearance from https://worktheme.com/tracker. Now they are also showing exact same colored table for 1000 cases, but much more filled. Atleast they could have changed colors 🙂
Hi Saurabh,
My H1B petition was approved last week. My client wants me to join the project latest by start of November. Since I am a resident of Karnataka the default consulate location for interview is Chennai, where the next available slot is only in the first week of Jan 2017. Is there an option to choose Hyderabad Consulate as my interview location, which has around 15 days wait period ? I do not see any option online on ustraveldocs site.
Kindly provide your valuable inputs.
Yes, You can choose Hyderabad or any other consulate (Mumbai,Delhi) for interview. No problem at all.
Thanks Vinay
Any one from siri infosolutions inc ?
Siri info solutions is a desi consultancy owned by telugu guy,waste consultancy. In do business with them,this shows u paid money and u r a waste consultant and ruined the chance of a genuine guy.
Did anyone from CG got the approval notice for 1Aug yet?
No man not yet. Does it really take that long ?
Hi,
My transferred case just got RFE, aug 25th, uscis website. I dont have direct access, only my employer. will i receive the email from my employer right away or should i wait until the date stated by uscis, sept 24th< if letter is not received by this date, contact uscis.
Waitingapp,
It is up to employer when to share the information w/ you. If they don’t receive letter from USCIS within 30 days, they should contact USCIS and follow-up. However, you have no way of knowing that unless you keep pinging them.
Guys need your help..
My employer filed my Visa for client A, now i got the RFE for client documets and project description but meanwhile my project got changed. I work for client B.
So whose docs shud i provide Client A or Client B.
1.If i provide for client A..it may fail if they veify with client
2.If i provide for client B..my internal VISA dept told chances are there it may get rejected…
Not sure what to do…
RFE,
You are in a tough situation. Change in client, especially at a different location is not advisable for pending petitions. Change in location requires new LCA which is not possible for a pending petition.
Thanks Saurabh for your reply.
My employer already has a blanket LCA approved for client B.
so can i go with that LCA and submit the docs for client B correct me if i am wrong.
also my previous project is still an active project. Required RFE info is also available
So what wud be advisible, to go with client A or B.
I know its a tough situation for me, I’m just figuring out my best option.
Thanks,
RFE,
No, its not that simple. Your filed I-129 has the old LCA number. So you cannot take a new LCA just like that. I would suggest sticking with old location.
Can you find a new client at the old location? Are you from one of the big IT firms or a small desi consulting company?
I work for small IT firm.
If I provide docs for old client, do they verify whether i still work for that client or not? Or they just check the authenticity of the docs/info which we provide??
My Visa cell is asking me to provide the info for new client.
Thanks
RFE,
They may verify the information about the old client. In the end, you should go w/ what the attorney is suggesting as they are responsible for your approvals. If they are suggesting new client, then that’s what you would have to do (even though its not the ideal thing).
Thanks saurabh for your reply.
My employer already has approved blanket LCA for Client B.
so can i go with it??, rest other docs i have for client B.
Also my previous project is still active with my employer. bt i am no more a part of it.
So what would be advisible to with client A or B.
i know its a tough situation, i am just figuring out my best possible option.
Thanks
Thanks Saurabh for the info.
I am responding to my RFE with current project docs as advised by my VISA cell.
lets see how it goes. will update you on my case.
Thanks
Guys any update from TCS??
I didnt hear even one approval case from TCS folks only RFE updates. Do anyone have any update on approvals??
IBM is asking to attend a mandatory mantoux test before scheduling H1 interview. What will happen if mantoux test(TB) get positive result? Will the company stop processing further? or will they advise for any medical treatment and ask to comeback later?
Your only worries is about Processing …..Not about TB..:):). Sorry but only IbMer’s can answer your question.
Hi,
I am on L1b in US, I have applied for H1B through another company. My case is in EAC1614654xxx series and still status shows as case received. My case was applied as COS as I am in US. The new company from whom I applied my H1B told me to wait for my h1 decision and based on that proceed for my wife’s H4. Now considering the pace at which petitions are processed don’t know when my turn will come. My question is should I go ahead and apply for my wife’s h4 ? Also if anyone observered in past that petition got approved after 1st Oct, if yes what was the start date..? Very next day or there is some grace period…?
Guys,
Please provide some inputs.
Thanks …!
H1b-waiting,
I assume your wife is inside US on L-2. The best thing you could have done was apply her H-4 COS along w/ your H-1. However, your new employer advised against it (which I don’t agree to).
You need to wait for your own H-1 COS approval and soon after apply for her H-4 COS. Anytime she spends inside US b/w your H-1 COS approval and H-4 COS filing may cause an issue as your L-1 status would cease to exist once your COS is approved.
Hello Saurabh,
Thank you for your response. Yes my wife is in US on L2. My change of status will be effective from the H1B start date so before that if I file for here H4 then there issue right ? For example, let’s assume my approval comes around10th sept and start date is 1st October then till 1st October I am on L1 status correct …?
Also, my other question was what would be the h1b start date in case my petition got approved after 1st Oct… For example, let’s say 20th Oct …? Then start date would be 21st October ..? So till 20th I am L1 status then …?
H1b-waiting,
Yes, you would remain on L-1 until Oct 1. Maybe you can upgrade to PP, get decision before Oct 1 and still have buffer time to apply for her COS before Oct 1.
Yes, your status would L-1 until Oct 20th in the other example.
Hello, will the start and end date on LCA and approval be same… Thanks
Ash,
Approval period would be within LCA start/end dates. Typically it is same as LCA end date, but USCIS may approve for a shorter duration also based upon their review of submitted documents.
Waiting ends here ?
By God’s grace my case got approved today…my waiting ends today all the best for others .
Thanks kumar, Saurabh and my lovely redbus… Phew….
WAC 147 series….
Saurabh/kumar,
Slot for interviews…
Wiat time for interview slots In Chennai it’s show 120 days ,
Hyd it shows only 13 days ..can I book in Hyderabad though my pasaport issued in Chennai?
________Visitor Visas 9 Calendar Days*
Student/Exchange Visitor Visas 5 Calendar Days*
All Other Nonimmigrant Visas‡ 13 Calendar Days*
_______
Thanks
You can book an interview slot anywhere… that would not negatively impact your case
Thanks for help.
Don’t go to Hyderabad even by mistake. I hear the rejection rates are high compared to other centres. You will be screwed in verification as our Andra friends are experts in producing fake certificates
That smells as bad as you.hold your toungue
Is it not true most of students who got caught joining in fake universities are from AP , Most students doing MS are from AP , taking proxy calls , proxy development to ameerpet , hyderabad. Most of consultancies operating in US below to andhra take money for h1b.
ref: http://www.computerworld.com/article/3064712/h1b/us-uncovers-20m-h-1b-fraud-scheme.html.
where the heck did you see some state name in that URL. It is matter of discussion . and your silly lilliput conclusions doesn’t make any sense. and do hold your tongue.
Any got approval for RFE case?if yes how many days usis took to approve
Received RFE from Vermont center asking for Employer-Emloyee relationship and availability of speciality occupation.
This is my third attempt and Final attempt for H1B and kind of lost hope after this RFE. 🙁
Hi Saurabh,
I have received rfe last week , which tells that SOW was missing. So now my Employer is Submitting the SOW for the same client from Apr’2016 to Dec’2016 and also attaching Onsite Manager letter with this. Are these documents fine enough?
Kindly suggest…
Lakshmi
There is no point in submitting a SOW which is valid till dec-2016 since it will take 2-3 months for USCIS to validate the docs and by that time your sow would be over. So better to go for long term sow.
Thanks
Lakshmi,
It would be advisable to submit an extended SOW. If not, maybe mention in onsite manager’s letter that although SOW expires in Dec 2016, there is a good chance of extension etc.
Hello Saurabh
Will there be an issue if travel to London and stay there for a few months then to USA.
I did my stamping in India btw.
Of course not. Just make sure to enter US after Oct 1st
Of course not! Just make sure you enter US after Oct 1st.
Hello Saurabh,
My name came in H1B lottery and it is in regular processing (Status – Case Received)
If now I switch to premium processing and in case later H1B gets denied , will the premium processing charge returned ?
Hell No
Waiting Waiting Waiting Waiting EAC16144503XX
Keep Waiting till Sep 18 🙂
Why is the deadline of Sep 18th ?
basically you are allowed to travel before 2 weeks prior to Oct1st. But you can legally work from Oct 1st. considering that Sep 18th would be deadline.
But uscis can take more time as well and can go beyond these deadline. It depends on the load.
It is actually 10 days, not 2 weeks. Read When to enter US on H1B
I think 10days is inclusive of the approved start date. My visa has annotation “Not valid until Sep 22, 2016” for Oct 1st, 2016 start date.
There is no such deadline. USCIS can take any amount of time. Legally you are allowed to work from Oct 1st, that doesn’t ensure you case will be done before that.
What about Sep 18 ? Are they going to send all approvals before that?
I am waiting too……EAC16144511XX . I think , we are just with in 1000 number range…. I am hoping for that to come.
mine is in same series bro… any luck for u? or still waiting for approval ..?
I wish you get it soon Bro
For all who’re waiting to book an Interview date. Don’t wait till your case gets approved, Go ahead and book slot for Interview! Request LCA copy from your employer, you can get employment dates from your LCA. You just need receipt number and employment dates to book a slot. you can reschedule upto 2 times once you book slot.
if u didnt got any update till date u booked appointment then u will change it once,correct.
Then if u got rfe then what u will do?
SRC,
Things to watch out for:
1. You need to reschedule appointment is approval doesn’t come through by appointment date.
2. Your visa stamping fees go to waste if petition is denied
3. You will have to amend petition validity dates if the actual approval is for a term different from LCA dates.
Hi Saurabh,
Can you please clarify , what happens if the approval dates are different from the ones I put scheduling visa interview? I havenot got approval yet but have scheduled the interview . Will I be able to change it by cancelling the appointment? Please let me know . Thanks
Hi Saurabh
My Visa got Approved on 20th August. I have been asked by my employer to schedule an appointment for Stamping. Request you to please reply on below queries :-
1. My passport will expire by April 2018. I am thinking on getting my passport
renewed before appearing for stamping. Is it advised to get my passport
renewed before stamping ?
2. I would also need to add my spouse name,change the address in my passport.
Is it advised to make the changes in PP before stamping ?
Would appreciate an early Response
Thanks,
Saurabh
You can go ahead and do it. Get it done in tatkal and then go for stamping. Otherwise also you can get it stamped. No issues.
I dont think you can renew your passport more than year in advance.
You can’t renew passport more than a year in advance. But you can apply for Change of address and addition of spouse name. That way you will get a new passport with 10 years of validity starting 2016.
I suggest you to go for Tatkal passport as you will need that for Stamping purpose.
Saurabh,
Agree w/ others comments that you can get a new passport with spouse’s name now and then appear for stamping using that.
My case got transferred from Vermont to California and the California center is currently processing applications from Dec 15 2015 as per USCIS site. Although i see some movement there according to the tracking sheet https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pMsGtKC6sGS2uj4JL3JX5IYytzU5jJO_qJ-UJKXiCr4/htmlview?pli=1#
Would filing for premium processing help at this stage help?
Can someone repost the link which has the excel that tracks the number of cases processed/day?
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pMsGtKC6sGS2uj4JL3JX5IYytzU5jJO_qJ-UJKXiCr4/htmlview?pli=1#
APPOINTMENT SCHEDULE Regarding:
Now Chennai shows minimum 120 days meaning almost in December timeframe only 🙁 , Someone said F1 schedule will get over this month and H1B schedule time will get reduced. I am wondering how this schedule gets reduced, we can’t expect all hundreds of people cancel and slots available before December?
If you check busy cities like London, Shanghai all have only a weeks time for schedule, Only in India it is terribly high wait time.
Your comments please.
Baahubali,
They freed-up the dates in Hyd. I am expecting other embassies to show earlier date as well, as we get closer to Oct 1.
IBM is asking to attend a mandatory mantoux test before scheduling H1 interview. What will happen if mantoux test(TB) get positive result? Will the company stop processing further? or will they advise for any medical treatment and ask to comeback later?
Guys,
Creating an account and adding the Case under this account at USCIS site and opted for Email and Mobile notifications.
Just wanted to confirm that, those who’s petition got approved were able to receive the Approval Email and Mobile notification ?
Yes I also did the same. Recieved the approval email on the email id I provided.However, did not recieve any SMS on the mobile number I mentioned till now.
My case got approved on Aug 14.
Thank you 🙂
EAC16148*** and EAC16149*** are getting approved What is happening on EAC16143*** it is in deep sleep mode 🙁
Hi,
I am still in EAC16141*** and Waiting. Yesterday I saw someone posted about 139* series and waiting. I am not sure why they peocess very less number of cases after the total count in that series reaches <1000.
Hey ,
I am also in the eac16141* series and still waiting. Is your employer MNC or desi consultancy
I am on the same boat.
Still Waiting, EAC1614153***
This waiting period is kinda exhausting, the process seems very slow than usual.
My OPT ends this NOV. Hopefully I get some update on my case.
My series starts with EAC1614354XXX………..still waiting…….no upates…….it is moving very slow…………
I am also waiting… Mine is EAC16143541XX…
EAC processing cases very slowly at this speed they can’t able to complete till the end of this year………. 🙁
My number is EAC161445….. Wow…. my number is still pending ! I don’t know whats is going on.
Any one from GSS InfoTech, got the H1B Approved ?
Mine is EAC161445**** still waiting 🙁
Any one Hexaware got RFE/Approval
Hi I got approval on Aug 20.
I have generated DS160 for 3 months back with interview location as Hyderabad.But due to busy dates in Hyderabad.I booked interview location to Mumbai.So next month i am going to Mumbai for interview.So In my Ds160 its showing interview location as Hyderabad.
1.Should i generate new DS160 for Mumbai location?? or Old one is enough.
Get the latest DS160 with Mumbai.
Also r u in premium category? Did you get appointment before USCIS aproval? Please let us know. Even I want to do that.
Thank you Baahubali Part 2.
I am from 2015 lottery.I got approved last year i,e June 2015.
DS160,
I don’t think you need to complete another DS form. You can use the one you currently have. DS data is available online and each consulate has access to it.
when I checked my receipt this morning, it came up as approved, but then later when I checked it back, it went to received state. Has anyone encountered this ? What could be the case ?
Hi,
I had the same trouble. I thought it was an issue with app. The case showed approved only for few minutes, after which when I checked in USCIS website it was not approved. I was not able to conclude what was the problem.
Anyone whose case has been transferred got approved? Am having the same case with series EAC16148*****
same series, same case, yet still waiting since may 18th
Hi,
Mine also same series EAC16148***** . Waiting since 18th May.
Yes, Mine too with same date. Really frustrating … 🙁
Even my Receipt went to transferred state on MAY 18…really frustrating…
The next available date at Chennai consulate is 3rd January 2017 !!!
Afraid the client I have been signed up for may not wait that long. Hope the approval process speeds up 🙁
Hi Saurabh,
Need your help..
My employer filed my Visa for client A, now i got the RFE for client documets and project description but meanwhile my project got changed. I work for client B.
So whose docs shud i provide Client A or Client B.
1.If i provide for client A..it may fail if they veify with client
2.If i provide for client B..my internal VISA dept told chances are there it may get rejected…
Not sure what to do…
H1B_RFE,
See my response to your other post on this.
Guys,
Anybody from IPOLARITY ?
Thanks
H1 approval process seems to be really very slow this year. Is this something related to the presidential election coming up in Nov’16. Are they purposefully delaying the process ?
I really think you are right.
Donald trump , an anti immigrant , became comedy piece in US elections , exit polls show he is trailing by 8%, He wont win.
H1_Us_Elections,
Every year there are several petitions that remain in pending status. However, the additional delay could be due to several amendment and H-4 EAD applications that have been filed. It has nothing to do w/ US presidential elections.
Anyone got news for may 18th transferred case?
Nope
First available appointment for H1B in Delhi now shows as 30th August !!! That is strange.
Thats first interview buddy not second interview,second interview dates will be seen only when u enter into the site by entering receipt number and ds-160 numbers.
1st interview finger printing
2nd interview visa officer-these dates are available all over india as if now in any consulate is from december
Abhi,
First available appointment is the earliest date on which visa appointment is available. Biometric appointments are available by plenty. You may get biometric appointment even for tomorrow. If you select a biometric appointment for Aug 30, you will not the see the visa appointment for Aug 30 even if available. Biometric appointment should be at least one day earlier to the visa appointment.
As mentioned by Admins earlier, the F1 season is coming to end and there are appointments opening up in August as well. Currently I have scheduled Sep 21 but was checking frequently to reschedule. I once found Aug 5th on Aug 3rd. So keep checking and if you are in the same city as the consulate and have all the documents ready you might end up attending interview in few days. Also keep in mind you can reschedule up to 2 times i.e use the same visa fee receipt number for 3 times and can reschedule only up to 24 hours prior to biometrics appointment.
if Reschedule the dates then those will be in next dates to the date which you already have then ???
I am thinking reschedule means it’s not dates prepone. It will postpone to your current date and may be provided the next available dates.
#correct me if i am wrong
hi everyone.
did anyone filed their h1 b through secureapp technologies in new jersey ? did you got any kind of notification by them..
thanks
It got 90% 5 star reviews on myvisajobs. its too good to be true to me.
In my experience NZ consultancies are notaries. its fine as long they didn’t charge you
Mine is filed thru this comp. But still no update, they are saying have not got the reject letter till now…what’s ]your status? But I know people got rejection letter and also got picked up thru this…
Mine is filed thru this comp. But still no update, they are saying have not got the reject letter till now…what’s ]your status? But I know people got rejection letter and also got picked up thru this…
Hi,
I got an RFE to prove employer employee relationship . I work in an EVC model and the client doesn’t provide any document as per policy. What are my options? Are there any other alternatives? Please help me out.
Thanks.
I also got same kind of RFE and yesterday I got my approval. try to get letter from vendor and provide a contract between your end client and vendor.
I can get vendor letter but they said they can’t provide any document relating to the end client.
When you sent the RFE response ?
Thanks to the forum.
Today I got the message as case is approved after 4 months..my receipt number start with WAC161435….
Hi,
Non AD/RP?
Hi Saurabh,
I am trying to book an appointment in advance ,i dont have a approval yet. But it is asking for start and end date which I dont have can you please clarify if we can edit that info later. I am trying to contact the customer care it doesnt connect to a representative. Thanks
@Ash,
You can not update any of the petition related stuff after confirming your appointment.
you must enter ds-160 number,receipt number,start & end date.
you cant edit these later.
You can check start & end dates from the LCA if your employer has shared with you.
Ash,
You can’t edit this information by yourself in future. However, when you appear for biometrics you can request the person to update the details for you. Another option is to complete another DS form in future and then ask the biometrics person to swap the old one w/ new one.
Hello Saurabh,
The dates I was talking about are the ones needed while booking the appointment. DS 160 doesnt need the start and end dates. When I checked with customer care they said I will have to cancel the appointment if I have to make any changes in these details.
Ash,
I think you should be able to update this when appearing for biometrics.
MY receipt series is EAC13916*****, i didn’t hear anything from uscis case is still in received status. Tensed any thoughts ?
13950** and still waiting too.
You know nothing Jon Snow!
I got my approval today. Thank goodness the long wait is over.
Can anyone here advise me? I want my fiance to come with me to the states. Ill be deployed by end of september. If we get married now, will he be approved of an h1b dependent visa easily? If not, what are our options? Im very new to this type of visa processing. Please help.
I think there should not be any problem, once you valid document for h1 dependent visa, you should also double confirm from your employer too.
Looks like he is lucky for you. 🙂 ….wish you a good luck and congratulation.
He has to file an application as well using you as a sponsor and go to a US embassy for the interview. Remind him to bring all the marriage docs translated in english. The only problem is he cannot work with a H4-visa until you get the I-140 form approved (second step of GC process).
I also have the same plan. Only thing is I am waiting for the USCIS decision.:)
You can follow these steps to get things done on time.
1. Registered marriage (Fill out the forms and submit it to Municipal Corp.) It will take them a week to issue marriage certificate. – 7 days
2. Apply for spouses new passport (optional – only required if you want your last name changed on your all future documentations.)
3. New passport takes 10-12 days to arrive (If applied under express category) – 12 days
3. Take VISA appointment on a same date ( there are better chances of getting stamped if you both guys have the appointment on same day. You could mention in the interview that your spouse is also standing for the interview today. ~ 10 days
4. Book the flight (Don’t forget that 😛 )
Thank you for your response. What is the GC process?
Is this correct: i will not change my last name to his so that i dont need to apply for a new passport now since im due for the consular interview on wednesday but in the future can i change my last name and apply it to all our documents?
Camile,
GC process is the green card process.
Yes, you can appear for stamping with current name and later change the name. You can then update the name in all immigration and non-immigration documents.
Mine was VT/RP/EAC1614952***, went to RFE today. Is there still a chance of approval?
@IBMer _2nd Attempt
If your employer submit all required documents needed for the said RFE they will definitely Approved your case.
how much time it will take for RFE premium approval.
Decision should be 15 days from the day USCIS received the response.
Hi All,
My Petition was approved opn 15-Aug-2016.
My case number WAC1614750***.
I am getting lot of info from this site.
Thanks.
Ho, congrats and best of luck. My case is of same series and before your number but still waiting status WAC1614650*** I think they randomly evaluate the cases, any body have any information ? Or they are evaluating sequentially ?
Usa,
No, they do not evaluate sequentially 🙁
Mine is in WAC1614752*** series, the number before me and after me have RFE’s and mine is still in received.
Any Benefit for premium processing at this time? need forum suggestion
Hi Guys,
Any One waiting for approval for below series ..?
EAC1614652***
i am waiting from long time, not yet approved..
Thanks,
H1_Pune_3rd_Time
Yes waiting for same EAC1614651***….
Yes waiting for same EAC1614651***…
Me too waiting for EAC16146514**
Me waiting for EAC161435**** as of now no movement at all. case T/F to west coast!
You can track using h1bstats.ru. I am also from the same series as you are in.
According to this site, almost 95% of applications in this series are processed.
You might listen some news by this weekend.
All the best.
Sorry, I am wrong. Around 3000 applications are pending in this series. Have patience to hear updates on your case. All the best.
Congratulations bro…mine is same but still case is still received..WAC1614753***
still case is in received state. its almost august finishing. any one still waiting for case to be approved. any deadline for this.??
Siva,
Can u let me know about this series WAC1614753***
Hi Saurabh,
I have got my H1B petition approved by USCIS recently (Non AD/RP). I am due for stamping now and I have initiated the stamping process. I know that if the client/project changes after stamping then one has to file a H1 Amendment request. I have asked the same thing to my Immigration Team of my company. They say that, typically, if my project or client changes after stamping then I have to file for a H1B Amendment case prior to only 2 weeks(this includes time for filing a new LAC if it is not available at the new location) before travel to the new location. I do not need to wait for the approval. Once the Amendment is filed , I can safely travel to US.
Do you agree with that and see any issues here?Need your expert advice here please because I believe lot of us will have to go through the same process-with visa being raised for one client/project and he/she is travelling through some other project.
ctsh1b,
Although I don’t know of any experience who has done so, yet what I have read online concurs with this. Once amendment has been applied, you can enter US on previously approved petition and pending amendment receipt and work at the new location.
Hi Saurabh,
Cannot thank you more for the quick reply. Words or advice from you on this subject is always reassuring to me. Once again I would like to thank you on behalf of everybody from the bottom of my heart. Just by reading this blog and the questions posted by everybody (including myself) and your answers had helped me gain lot of insight into the H1B process.
Do share with us if you any updated information on this regard in future.
Thanks a lot once again.
Thanks ctsh1b. Just doing my bit to help others in this immigration maze. Surely, I will update if I get more data points about the case.
Suggest you share your experience here as well once you have traveled to US w/ pending amendment.
MY receipt series is EAC13916*****, i didn’t hear anything from uscis case is still in received status. Tensed any thoughts ?