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.
Guys any review on GCBServices company?
Hello,
I got a RFE on September first week. My current H4 visa is expiring on December. Please advice if to go for H4 extension if decision on RFE is not received before December.
Thanks.
Amy,
Yes, you should apply for H-4 extension as back-up. If H-1 gets approved, then withdraw the H-4 extension.
Does any one filed from IbleSoft and what is the current status?
Please share any previous or current experience with iblesoft!
Hi Sarubh,
Last time X employer filled H1b for me and it went security check but later employer told me we withdrawl your case but still i see Case was Received for my last year H1b.
For this year, another employed filled H1b for me and it picked on Apr 2016, status shows ‘Case was Recevied’, what are the chances my case to get approval?does last year impact my present H1b case?
Hi 2017_H1b_waiting,
Does the security check you mean is for the employer or for the employee? If it is for the employee , it would be helpful if you share me the high level details on the same.
Thanks
2017_H1b_waiting,
I don’t think previous case will have an impact on the current case. Stay positive!
My case got approved on 16th Sept.. EAC1614953***
Thanks Saurabh for answering all questions patiently.
All the best to everyone awaiting results!!
Hi Saurabh, In July I came to know that for my case “cheque was cashed” on June 20th.. As per consultancy my case is in still “case received ” still how many month it may take. As my case was picked up in June..
Thanks in advance..
Waiting,
There is no SLA and it could take few more days, weeks or months.
Hello everyone,
Too much of thoughts killing me. ‘Case was received’ from April 2016 till date. Whats wrong with USCIS for this delay? Its really going at snails pace.
Can i expect a change in status atleast by end of this month? Any responses will be greatly appreciated.
Expect the response by OCTOBER END. By that time most people will get response.
Delay could be because of elections on November 8th or any other reasons.
Hi Saurabh,
My h1b status online shows “case was received” since april 2016. Mine is NON-AD/ REGULARLY PROCESSING / VERMONT
According to your experience with h1b time frame. Can you please let me know till what time we should expect h1b decision this year?.
Thank you for your great help with this forum.
may happen in this month or anytime between now and march.
last time some got results in jan and feb
Thanks Suresh….
I agree, but The point i wanted to make is 95% people will get update by OCTOBER END….and rest 5% will go little longer…
i picked one series to see the percentage of RFE, its around 25% of the total cases.
so at least 10 % of the candidates are going to know after December.
May be you are right…..lets hope all gets their responses ASAP so that people can plan better!.
Thank you.
My h1b status online shows “case was received” since april 2016. Mine is NON-AD/ REGULARLY PROCESSING / VERMONT
According to your experience with h1b time frame. Can you please let me know till what time we should expect h1b decision this year?.
Thank you for your great help with this forum.
Hi Saurabh,
Appreciate your consistent support to dreamers out here.
My H-1B petition was approved earlier this week, after RFE on specialty occupation.
My question is, can I book my consular appointment, without waiting for the physical copy of the petition. Or I should wait for the physical copy, before locking in my appointment with US consulate.
Thanks in advance.
Rajesh
Hi Rajesh
I have a couple questions for you…how long did it take for approval after rfe? And if you don’t mind the reason please.
I have also got rfe last week…trying to get the picture…hope you understood…
Thanks
Hi Anxious_h1b,
RFE was on Specialty occupation. We went for premium processing with RFE response. It was approved in 5-6 working days. It was CSC processing
I see rfe started approving now
Can you please provide your series number?….also did you convert your case into premium processing?
Hi Jack,
We upgraded to Premium Processing. WAC 1614 ….
Hi Rajesh,
I’m also received same RFE. how did you respond this RFE. could you please explain. that will help. I’m working in
US based company. already my case was premium.
Rajesh,
You need to know the receipt number and petition expiration date in your DS form. Receipt number you may already know, but do you know the expiration date? If not, I would suggest wait for another week. Employer should receive the hard copy within 1-2 weeks.
EAC1614652*** any update in this series ?
I see some approvals in this list. EAC1614652122
Same
Mine Approved on Sep 6th..Same series…Good Luck for all of you 🙂
People in the series EAC161445* heads up. You might start getting update by next week!
This series is getting updated every two days,whts new to get in next week,every two days atleast 3-7 petitions getting approved .i am watching work theme every day since it has 50 petitions approved now it has 218 petetions approved
H1b regular,
This was based on more and more people got approval in series EAC16143* and EAC16146.
My guess may deviate a bit!.
My petition approved from 01-Oct-16 to 20-Jul-19.
Should I need to fill DS160 form before 01-Oct-16 or is there any deadline to complete DS 160 form.
Please advice
No Buddy , there is no dead line for filling DS-160, you can book your visa slot any time before 20-jul-2019
Ideally there should Supporting Client letter with 6 Months of time line from your travel to US , else you would get some questions from Stamping Officer.
Time Line means
6 months Some thing before 20-Jul-19
Saurah,
Am i Correct on this ?? Can you Correct me if i am wrong.
Frnd,
I agree w/ your response.
Hi!
My visa was finally approved on September 16 and I have a few questions”
1. Will the attorney receive the original I-797 or my employer?
2. How much time does it take to receive the original I-797?
3. Do I have to wait to receive the original I-797 to book the visa interview?
4. Which documents do we need to bring at the visa interview?
Thank you!
Buddy,
1.As per my Understanding the attorney will receive and he will share the same with your employer.
2.As per the USCIS guidelines it is 60 days from the approval . But You would get it in 2 weeks as we have seen few cases recently.
3.No need to wait for booking a Slot . But while Attending its better you have the hard Copy of it
4. Documents Saurah would be the better person for answering this .
Saurah,
please help on.
Thank you!
Visa Approved/ Frnd,
One correction – the SLA is 30 days to receive the hard copy and not 60 days.
Documents required varies from case to case. At least the passport and 797 are needed. You should also carry other documents to support your case like resume, experience letter(s), degrees, marksheets, project/client related documents.
Hi Saurav
Do you have the source of this information where it is mentioned that SLA to receive approval mail is 30days after case is approved ? It would be great if you share any link with us , i need to share this with my employer becoz they are saying there is no such SLA.
Aricent,
When you look-up your receipt number online, even the online status says that if the document is not received within 30 days, then employer should contact USCIS. So there is your SLA.
From this Post you can say it was for 30 Days as per USCIS.
There was a Similar question asked for Approval Time line.
http://immigrationgirl.com/your-h-1b-was-selected-in-the-fy-2017-lottery-what-happens-next/
Hi All,
I am also waiting for the Approval :). As per my analysis
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pMsGtKC6sGS2uj4JL3JX5IYytzU5jJO_qJ-UJKXiCr4/edit?pref=2&pli=1#gid=237954566
I think we should get an idea EOM. The rate at which they are processing applications suggest that they will finish the process at EAC . I think we should be happy that we will get some answer EOM :). Best luck everyone and even if we will get RFE or rejection this is not EO life. These are just motivation for everyone and for me as well 🙂
I don’t think so that you will get update by END OF MONTH. But October 20th-30th should be fair expectation.
Anyone from Mindtree got approval/received approval notice?
I got rfe for employer employee relationship.
We don’t have SOW with us, so submitting only client letter and MSA.
Would this be sufficient?
Any response would be appreciated
This will be sufficient. But for employee-employer relationship u need payrolls, tax stmnts, ur offer letter
Thanks, offer letter is already included.
wanted to know if not having SOW will cause any issues ?
My petition EAC16143**** got approved. Thanks and Best luck to all.
Mak,
Could you please inform your employer?
Infy
+1
Mine as well got approved yesterday. I guess a lot of Infy applications got approved yesterday.
My petition also got approved. Thanks and Best luck to all
On September 16, 2016, we approved your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC16141527.. We will mail your approval notice. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.
Hi Guys
Please suggest whether we should schedule stamping or amendment first at this point
HI,
If the project/client has changed, then go for amendment first so that you can submit all relevant project documents during stamping.
Hi Saurabh,
In this case, can we file amendment and appear for stamping right away or do we have to wait for the amendment to be approved first?
Thanks
Amendment,
I don’t know if you can appear for stamping w/ just the amendment receipt number or not. I would defer that you your attorney.
Update on EAC1614752*** series today 16-Sep
Case was Approved:
375,476,423,142,105,284,447,572,865,607,586,762,770,656,939,533,566,946
RFE:
242,195,902
oh sry its 16-Sep update
Hi raj,
As mentioned above that this particular series these many petition status changed, do you have any idea about eac1614355*** series….thanks
Hi Raj
Where did u get this data ..any website with consolidated updates available ?
Hi Saurabh,
Myself and my husband have approved H1B petitions from the past working for the same employer. Our employer recently filed Cap-Exemption and it got approved. Now, it’s time to plan our US travel.
1. Are there any downsides of such a case when appearing for H1B stamping together? Can we be thought of as potential immigrants and hence denied visa?
2. What if my husband has to travel now as my assignment in US isn’t decided yet? Can he schedule an appointment now and I schedule one later when things are clear? I think I will still have to appear for the interview with him at the Consulate, please confirm.
3. If the Visa Officer enquires as to why my husband isn’t filing a H4, can we be honest and narrate the scenario?
4. For our kid, I am planning to include him in my application.
5. Any other pointers, things to remember etc.
Thanks
Pooja,
1. You won’t be appearing together as you both will be going for your H-1 stampings. So you may be appearing one after the other or in parallel at separate windows; but not together. Also, consideration as potential immigrant is not a factor during H-1B interview, as H-1 is a dual intent visa.
2. Husband can appear now and you can appear for your H-1 interview later. Unless you want to appear for H-4 visa stamping, you shouldn’t be accompanying him right now.
3. He can say that the wife has a job in India and doesn’t want to travel to US yet.
4. That’s ok
5. Remember to mention yours status as married in DS-160 form
Thanks Saurabh, that was a great help. Our H1B’s stand approved but we never used them until now.
On the same grounds, I have couple of more questions:
1. If I file H4 with my husband’s H1B now, does it impact my individual H1B’s status? My cap-exempt H1 petition is valid until November’2017. I am just thinking if I travel with him as a dependent on a sabbatical, settle things in US for ourselves and our little one and then start working again.
2. Say 6-8 months down the line, can I apply for COS from H4 to H1B and start working in US? I can get my visa stamped whenever I next plan a trip to India.
3. Will it be obligatory to stick to the same employer or can I directly switch to a new employer with COS? Does my current employer have nay rights to revoke my petition in this scenario?
Thanks
Pooja,
1. Traveling on H-4 doesn’t impact your H-1 petition. It will remain approved and you can move to H-1 in future inside US by filing COS to H-1.
2. Yes, this can be done
3. You can apply just COS (when with same employer) or I-129 + COS (when with a different employer). The employer can withdraw their petition anytime as per their will. However, that shouldn’t derail your plans.
Hi Saurabh,
Regarding #3, you said that my current employer can revoke their petition at any time as per their will.
In case, they get to know my intention of switching the job with COS+I-129 and they revoke my petition. Will this also not revoke my approved H1B or does it only take the current employer out of picture/responsibility?
In case, you can provide me any link with further details on this topic. It would be great.
Thanks
Pooja,
One H-1 is withdrawn, you cannot work for that employer on that H-1 petition. However, you can still use that petition as proof to show that you have already been counted in the cap i.e. for cap-exempt purposes.
Hi Friends !!!
I am from CTS and I am waiting from last 5 months still there is no updates but all my friends from CTS they got updates like RFE, Approval in different Projects. Any one is still waiting from CTS. I have checked CTS Global Mobility team they are telling this year USCIS has changed the processing time from 5 to 7 months.
@Saurabh, could you please let me know is this true ? and let me know how USCIS is doing the processing on each case. Some cases are getting the updates very earlier but few cases are still no updates.
CTS_H1B_2nd_Timer,
I am in same boat.
Hi Karthick,
CTS_H1B_2nd_Timer,
Could you please let me know are you applied from WAC or EAC. I am working in MBP Bangalore. Could you please let me know your contact details or email address to touch with you further updates.
ABC_First_Time,
There are several other petitions still pending. As it is not mandatory for them to process all petitions through an employer together, it is possible that most of the petitions from your company have seen some progress but not yours.
Thanks for the updates Saurabh . Could you please let me know still I have any hopes to wait to get my case updates because most of petitions got updates in my series WAC14250+++. Please find my petition details. Applied from CTS, Project: Biggest E commerce Stores in USA(C.A.). Education: MCA in Anna University with 90%. Having 6 years IT experience in Java.
Thanks
ABC_First_Time,
Delay doesn’t mean that your petition has a higher chance of rejection. It may still get approved.
Shan
After long wait and so much of pressure my H1B got approved. Thanks for this site for responding to my questions and information.
All the best for Everyone who are waiting for the results . Sure you will get good news soon guys.
EAC16148507**
H1B – regular processing and it was transferred to California center.
Thanks
After a long waiting, received RFE now. Could somebody tell me whether i can see the RFE detail or only the employer know?
Your employer or lawyer will her RFE info first. They might share it with you
Hi friends
Anyone with receipt num series EAC16142546** received any update ?
What are the different Status changes we will see on USCIS site, once we upgrade to Premium Processing.
TECH MAHINDRA_WAITING
Any TECH MAHINDRA lucky guy so far ?
If so, got hardcopy of approved Petition paper?
Schedulued appointment ?
Please us know
Guys,
Anyone from Genuineit received approval?
Please update here to help others.
Thanks
Sai,
I am also from same. Can you pls give your contact details. I will get in touch with you .
Thanks
Hello sai and rkp ,
I am also from genuineit .vsirigiri@gmail.com drop an email to me we will get in touch
Hi,
I have also applied from GIT. Please find my email id below.
evih1b@rediffmail.com
Lets make whatsapp group to track progress.
Hi Saurabh,
Could please tell below consultancy is fishy or not:
CYNTEK-SOLUTIONS-INC
Hi Saurabh,
Could you please tell below consultancy is fishy or not:
CYNTEK-SOLUTIONS-INC
i think you are new to visa filing,hope you know the meaning of fraud.if you have already selected then how could you ask everyone here whether its a fraud.
on what basis you want to know its a fraud or not.
i have been in this consulting business 8 years,visa filing is a glass of water for me.
i come here randomly just to answer some questions.
if you are not specific on what basis you want to know fraud i can answer your question,below are some answers whether they match your resume.
1) all desi small consulting companies take money for h1b filing.
actual cost for h1b will be $1600 depending on attorney max goes to $2000,but they charge $3500,$4k,$5k etc. as we take filings in bulk so cost comes in 1800-2000.
2) people who file h1 from small staffing companies will have to work like dogs,no matter u cry die no one cares, because ur future GC background check will depend on these small companies,at the time GC check USCIS comes to these companies,small companies need to certify you as good,if they make any negative comments then forget GC,thats y u should be as dogs.
3) you cant demand pay, if the taxes are 15% they charge you 30% and more ,you will be slaves and cant even question even though you did they know how to coverup your questions.
4) if you overreact they simply revoke ur petition and you should comeback to india.
there are lot more things apart from this,simply its a prostitute business we do with you.
you company comes under this category and all these apply.
now hope you got clarity what a a word FRAUD refers to.
Thanks Ajit..For above information.I was asking from approval point of view.
Nice reply.
if you dont know anything about that company,without doing proper verification how did you applied, how much you paid.
I have verified it but still i have doubt.
http://www.myvisajobs.com/Visa-Sponsor/Cyntek-Solutions/1230265_Visa.htm
Hi Saroj,
What does this mean?Is this fraud ?
after doing all the research its just a small company which has some qualities as fraud,this just o my research
If this a fraud consultancy then how can they file my petition.And How come I got selected.Could please explain.
Can you please share your contact information (email id etc.)? I also wanted to check on this consultancy
Hi Sandhya,
Can you please share your mail ID? Wanted to check on this employer.
Hi Saurabh,
Is it true that after September 30th, rejection chances are higher for h1?
yes its true
Hi Kumar,
Please dont mislead others if you have no evidence to prove that. If you are just kidding then please dont hurt others feelings as i know how big anyone’s dream is to get H1b approved.
Its nothing like that. Last year many of my friends got approval on Nov and RFE cases on Feb. So dont worry and hope for the best.
yes u r right
All timeframe is very same , there is no rejection timeframe and approval timeframe.
Jack,
Nothing like that. Rejection rate does not increase just b/c Sep 30th has passed.
Thank you very much. I am still waiting and little worried as my l1b extension also got denied in aug 2016 🙁
SAME FONT SAME TEXT “CASE WAS RECEIVED”
…. Have been seeing this for 5-6 months …. No idea how long will be !!!
I am OK to status in different words at least…
Anyway I won’t loose hope …. hope … hope
My status is still “case was received”, but I saw my boss file the I9 form for me, anybody know what does this mean?
Are you L1 to H1 case from same company and are you in US already ? If you are in India, it is not related at all.
Yes I am in US now, on B1 Visa
I9 is employmrnt verification in US. I hope you landed US recently and your manager is doing the employmrnt verification process for whatever visa you landed . It is nothing to do with H1b
You have to either apply for B1 to H1b cos(change of status) once your h1b is approved or come back to India and get you h1b stamped and then travel thru H1b.
Hi Saurabh,
My status is still showing “Case was received”.
I have I797C(receipt notice), can i transfer to other employer at this stage.
How can you recieve I797 (hardcopy) without petition approval; Is it approval notice or just a application received notice you have ?
it is just receipt notice
No you cant transfer until you have a I797A or I797B.
Hi,
Any one from infy got stamping scheduled ?
Hi,
No I am waiting for hard copy of approval notice. Any idea how much time GICS team will take to upload it in portal?
i think they will upload it once manager initiates new assignment for visa stamping. So, next action is wait for manager to initiate for stamping then GI team will take forward for further processing.
isn’t it other way around…first they will update the approval info. Then the manager will initiate the assignment.
Please confirm.
My case was approved from 01-Oct-16 to 20-Jul-19. But due to internal project requirement confirmation, its still pending with GL approval.
Is there any dead line to complete US H1b Visa stamping that I should complete before 01-Oct-16?
Please advice.
no, anytime you can go for stamping between 01-Oct-16 to 20-Jul-19.
Hi,
For H4 Stamping in India, is it mandatory for Kids(<14) to attend Finger Printing and Visa Interview?
Thanks.
Hi Saurabh,
Any idea on this. Due to the fact that its rainy season and more rains are expected for next 2 weeks in Hyderabad, i don’t want to risk kids health. So, can you please confirm if Kids are required for H4 visa stamping!!!
Thanks.
Stamping Question,
Kids under 14 are not required to attend the visa interview. The parents can carry their passports. They are also exempted from finger printing during biometrics. However, their photos still need to be submitted. I am not sure if you can carry their photos for biometrics or they have to appear in person for that.
You can contact US travel docs support team and ask this.
Thank You Saurabh. That helps.
when I went for L1B biometrics…I did not take my daughter along.
That was fine.
Anyone from siri infosolutions inc got approved or rfe?
Are there any approvals from Employers other than CTS, IBM, TCS and Infy?
Please update.
I am thinking that there are no approvals from small consulting firms till now????
Majority of them from consultancies get rejected because they never provide genuine client letter.
Nothing but money and time waste.
Hi Suresh,
No offence but one should check facts before commenting on anything. H1B is not the sole property of big MNC’s. For USCIS there is no difference between big MNC’s and consultancy’s. Many of my friends applied thgrough consultancy and they are working now in US. Just because few consultancy cheats doesn’t mean that all consultancy are same.
Hello Suresh
Can you suggest few consultancy, So that I can try next year.
Hello ABC
Can you suggest few consultancy, So that I can try next year.
Dude, i specifically mentioned cause of not being approved is their inability to provide genuine client letters.
I know we are all basically rich so no big deal about loosing a few hundred thousand dollars per year.
so do not mind. its a comment for people who are short on money or with no disposable money.
Advising someone to trust all of them where some are good is not advisable.
i came to these conclusions after reading many people’s horrible stories on myvisajobs.com, imhelp, others and of course on this site too
PS: We appreciate if you share your friends consultancies names to people who are desperate here
First time applicant.
Regular processing. Series EAC 16 148 ######
11 April = picked in lottery
6 May = got receipt number . “Case received”
30 Aug = “Case approved”
23 Nov = Appointment Booked for Delhi consulate (When till yesterday, available slots were from Feb 3rd)
Babaji has been very kind.
Thanks for this amazing group.
Will next post the date i will fly.
Hii,
Did you found any open slots while booking? The website shows 136 wait time for Delhi.
Hello Booking Stamping Slot,
which website you are seeing that information. As of today i.e 09/16/2016 delhi open slot is below .
First Available Appointment Is Monday September 19, 2016.
Dates are keep fluctuating for day to day. please be ready with all your documentation mean while.( DS160 and rest docs)
Thanks,
vv
Hi vv,
Thanks for your response.
I was checking this link – https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/general/wait-times.html/
It could be that this data is wrong. You are right, dates keep changing and slots open up.
Thanks
Hi VV,
Where can I check available slot? Can you share me the link?
Also is it allowed only when I complete DS160?
Please help
Slots keeps fluctuating.
In one day it went from 30th Jan to 2nd Feb and than suddenly showed 23rd Nov.
Hi IBMer_NCR,
Best of luck..I am from IBM pune still waiting for approval.I too got my receipt no in the same series like u.Could you throw some light on my below querieswrt IBM :
1)Within how many days after approval u recd the petition hard copy?
2)Visa interview scheduling will be done by IBM or we need to book a slot?
3)Do you have any dependents travelling with you?If yes,Have you submitted any documents for your dependents?
Thanks in Advance.
1) Post approval, you will get the hardcopy in 7-10 days.
2) IBM does this. But you approve, whether the date is fine with you or not.
3) Yes. Have not submitted to IBM anything till date. But you need to carry a set of listed docs for dependents on the day of Stamping. IMMI team will telkl you.
IBMer_NCR,
Same Ques..
The travel.state.gov shows 134 days of waiting time for non-immi visas. How did you manage to get 23rd Nov, please elaborate
TIA
@SlotBooking
Dates keep fluctuating.
Ideally its +134 days. But if they get any cancellations than you see dates in Oct, Nov flashing for 30 mins or so.
Hi IBMer_NCR,
can you tell me what is the next procedure IBM will take after petition approved.
mine approved on 26th Aug and till now no reply from company.
@IBM_BGL_Approved,
Post approval.
– Collect your hardcopy.
– Get stamping approval mail from your PeM.
– Gather a set of documents including Mantoux Test report and share with AMEX team.
– Amex pays the fees and shares the receipt.
– Immigration team books appointment.
Any body got refund from ACI Infotech ?
Dear All
My case status is pending since last year
EAC15143XXXXX
How come you have been waiting for more that a Year? You could have been gone for Premium.
Hi Saurabh,
Myself and my husband have approved H1B petitions from the past working for the same employer. Our employer recently filed Cap-Exemption and it got approved. Now, it’s time to plan our US travel.
1. Are there any downsides of such a case when appearing for H1B stamping together? Can we be thought of as potential immigrants and hence denied visa?
2. What if my husband has to travel now as my assignment in US isn’t decided yet? Can he schedule an appointment now and I schedule one later when things are clear? I think I will still have to appear for the interview with him at the Consulate, please confirm.
3. If the Visa Officer enquires as to why my husband isn’t filing a H4, can we be honest and narrate the scenario?
4. For our kid, I am planning to include him in my application.
5. Any other pointers, things to remember etc.
Thanks
Hi Saurabh,
My case is still showing as “Received” (NON AD/RP) from April’2016. Is it good to upgrade to PP now?? Kindly suggest with your inputs..
hi , mine is also still in “Received” status. Pl let me know what steps are you taking to find out the reason.
Kart,
The decision to upgrade to PP depends upon an individual’s circumstances. If you have urgent need to travel or need clarity on H-1 to make other plans, then go for it.
Anyone from siri infosolutions inc got approved?
did any one apply from prithvi americas inc and got approval.
its a fishy consultancy. my friend tried and did not go with them finally.
Finally status change but RFE (Request for Additional Evidence Was Mailed) My case ID: EAC1614751****.. 🙁 . After long wait again i need to wait…
Hi longwait?
Who is your employer?
What is the RFE ?
Hi,
Can anyone please tell me what is the procedure for COS application once the petition is approved? Does it require visa interview/stamping in the US?
Hi,
Did anyone from Stellent Solutions Inc. get approval or RFE?
Thanks!
I got rfe under speciality of occupation….I have done my diploma and three years of engineering .RFE s to provide first year of bachelor s degree.How to reply for this.Admin and others please update.
you should ask your attorney he is the final decision maker what to send not you are anyone here.
IMO, may be there are some deviations from your LCA with respect to your qualification. You will need to get the LCA and check what was required for the position you will be put into.
If you gone through a reputable company, their attorneys will take care of this. What you can only do is the provide the degree certificates and mark sheets. May be if the university is little less known, may be you will need to provide the degree evaluation certificate (google). If you paid visa fees your selves and applied through a desi consultancy, you might need to contact a good attorney to help you.
Best of luck.
Diploma and engineering-H1B,
Did you get education evaluation done? You don’t have a 4 years Bachelors degree and so its a must to have education evaluation done to know the US equivalent of your education. If evaluation was done, then what was the result?
HI Sourab,
Myne is M.Sc (organic Chemistry), B.SC (Maths,Physics,Chemistry) and having 7+ years of experiece (When applied). Now 8+ years. My application got picked. Currently I am working on SAP software side. Is it education evaluation needed for me.
Note: I have done one year Deploma in computers (private institute).
Please let me know. Thx.
H1vinayak,
You have to check w/ employer if they have already done for that. However, as you have 7 years of work experience, USCIS may not mandate education evaluation.
Thank you very much Sourab
I do not think Education evaluation is required. As it is also SSC + 6 years for BE.
I have done SSC+ Diploma 3 years + BE 3 years. Submitted all the certificates, marksheets.
My case is approved.
May be it is overlooked by the Officer or you/your company did not provide clear information on your BE course.
Regards,
Nero
Nero,
Submitting education evaluation is in the best interest of the candidate if the person doesn’t have a clear 4 years of degree from a reputed college. USCIS may approve the case even w/o the evaluation but for hassle free processing (at least related to education qualification), one should get education evaluation done.
Hi,
What does it mean when they say ” your petition is currently within the posted processing times ” . Can anyone advice ?
Dechen,
It means that the delay is normal and within prescribed wait times. In what respect was this response issued?
Thanks Saurab,
I asked my attorney to check with USCIS as status is ‘CASE IS RECEIVED’ till now.
SO they came back to me saying that ” your petition is currently within the posted processing times ”
Regards,
Dechend,
Then that’s an expected response.
But Saurabh, I just checked with my Attorney, will get it in next week,
I checked my status yesterday and it updated yesterday itself.
According to you , What are the chances of getting approved after RFE (although I don’t have the complete RFE) just for my knowledge .
H1B First time,
It all depends upon the RFE reason. It could be trivial or complex. So it is not possible to give a one size fit all answer.
Thanks Saurabh for your quick response 🙂
Regards
Amy
A new update for those whose case status still shows “the case was received…” The chances are your employer’s company is going through security checks from USCIS and hence they will only process your case after the security check is over. I just heard about it from my Employer/Attorney regarding the same status of my case.
In that case still some cases are “Received state” for major MNCs. They will also undergo security check?
I again goes company2company.. but it’s just a new thing I heard related to cases like mine.
I think it could be related to no of employees in a company also. just a guess
Only your company can know about it.
Anyone got approval after RFE ?
any one from prithvi americas inc