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 All,
Is it Good to convert RP to PP when replying to RFE?
Thanks
Yes Its good. I did it, got approval in 1 week of reply.
How long do we have to respond to the RFE? I received one on 21st Sept. I believe it is 12 weeks but does that count weekends too?
I think it is 13 weeks(including weekends). I received RFE on Sep 1st and last date to reply is Nov 24th,2016.
Hi All,
Please guide me on how long it takes to get the status updated in portal from RFE to Response to RFE Recieved once the employer submits the RFE?
Thanks
My employer have submitted the RFE response on 1st Oct. But still status not updated 🙁
I’m waiting and worried now 🙁
Boss I submitted on sept 19 still no response
i submitted on october 16. still no response
sept, 14 no changes, the long wait is really hard especially you cannot decide whether to resign on the current job or not.
I applied for h4 to h1b COS [Regular / Vermont/ Small company ]. My petition got selected in lottery on April 9, 2016 . I received my receipt number on May 11 , 2016 . Got RFE on
October 26 , 2016 . RFE details are Work Evaluation and Education evaluation . What is mean EDUCATIONal evaluation and work experience evaluation ?
i know Education evaluation means education equals to US qualified education . SO give me in detail about EDucation Eval and Work experience evaluation . I did UG in other major and PG in MCA and Exactly 4 years of experience in IT .
New Delhi VAC , its very strange dates not available for january 1 onwards
Many Dates are available for other consulates even till feb and march. but delhi not showing at all. The message comes no slots available.
Also, lots of slots available whole December 2016 in New Delhi as well, so not sure why no dates available post December 31st.
Any experience or advise in this area is greatly appreciated.
HI
My application has been picked in lot and it was as ” case was received ” until last week.
yesterday it has been changed to ” my fee will be refunded ” and it wont affect the process location.
please suggest what it mean.
Did you convert to PP and you didn’t get response for more than 15 working days?…..
I have a approved H1B petition which is valid for 1 year…I have the Receipt Notice and I797B Approval notice with me….Now if I change my company now will it impact my H1B Visa. Can i join new company and ask them for H1B Amendment on the approved petition…
Also if I don’t travel within 1 year or go for stamping…..Will it affect my H1B Extension which i need once the approved 1 year duration end..????
Hi,
Was your petition approved directly or after RFE?
Hi Saurabh,
My application got DENIED. Initially it was in RFE. What could be the reason?
Thanks
Hi there. .
How can anyone comment if nobody has any idea about your profile or petition details.
Let’s start with your background. What’s your education, professional experience? ? Did you apply with an inhouse project with any desi consultancy? ?
Hi there. .
How can anyone comment on your denied petition as nobody knows nothing about your profile.
Ok let’s start with your education and work experience ??
Also did you apply with any inhouse project with any desi consultancy? ?
Hi Raj,
Same me also. Its converted to RFE. After responded my employer, Its denied.
As per the employer, he said that its a education issue. Myne is M.Sc (chemistry) . Working on SAP side from past 8 years onwards.
He is planning to reapply through lawer for second evaluation.
Hi Sourab,
Will it work for second evaluation?
Did you receive decision notice? What was the reason?
Hi Saurab,
My status has been changed from “my case received” to “Amended Notice Was Mailed.
On November 15, 2016, we sent you an amended notice describing how we will process your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC1614454***.¿ It is being processed at our Vermont Service Center location. Please follow any instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your amended notice by December 15, 2016, please go to www.uscis.gov/e-request to request a copy of the notice.
I have applied for 1st time. Please help to understand this.
Hi,Ive got this very cofusing rfe.I have two valid USA licenses.USCIS is asking for a state license.Now,the state I am applying does not have a certification for my profession.What my employer did was they applied for a phlebotomist certification since I will be also working as phlebotomist and that my license should go unrestricted.The licensing agency did not issued a license since only credentials or professionals (who can attest to my training)who are accredited or license in the state are acceptable.In my country both the med tech profession and phlebotomy courses are fused so we get to work in hospitals as med tech and phlebotomist.I failed to obtain a certification from the state and that the response to rfe was only the proof of my application and their letter of denial.Now,I am concern as the USCIS will denied the rfe consideng I have a complex situation with regards to my license.There should not be a requirement for a state license since I have already two.Can you enlighten me as to what would be the outcome of this predicament sir?I am confused as hell.
Hi Daet,
At what state will you be working as medtech?
Are you a direct hire or thru agency?
I’m a Medtech too and also in RFE waiting for decision.
Washington state..thru agency..wat was ur rfe?..its easy to enter california and other states that acknowledge ascp but the rest..you have to be scrutinized ..
I have lots of RFE (itinerary of employment, work site information, employee-employer relationship, and state licenses) and will be working in California. I don’t have a state license yet.
What’s your agency?
My RFE response was received last Oct 13 and no update until now.
Let’s just hope for the best.
Goodluck to us!
State license?..ascp is enough for working in california..do you have ascpi already?the name of agency is nurses placement something..whats ur agency then..i think uscis is strict with cap but not with non-cap..
@Daet: I’m also a Med tech. and also been waiting for a response since sept 14, when they received my rfe resp. BTW I’m applying from Medpro to be assign in California and my RFE was about my Cal. License since I cannot take the Cal. exam w/o my SSN so the only way is to be there in USA first before taking the exam, I already have an ASCPi certification hence I will only take Cal. law exam. I’m hoping we’ll all get response soon and be approved.
I’m a MedTech too, applying in California, my case went to RFE W/c about my Cal State license since I only have ASCPi and one of the requirements in taking the Exam in SSN. They responded as test cases. I hope I’ll get approve and we’ll all hear the good news in ff. days.
Good luck to us.
Really flin?Do you really have to get a state ls ascpi not enough?..I have a friend for california also but there was no state license required.I am beginning to think uscis is buying time why issuing rfe.The state license for California also ascp.
Hi,
Any one from IbleSoft and what is the current status, Please respond!!
I got RFE and they have responded back.. please drop me your email and will get in touch with you offline.
Kiran you can reach me @ raja_2611@yahoo.co.in
ANY ONE FROM NIXSOL TECHNOLOGIES
My employer upgraded to PP after RFE. Case approved in 2days, but I have received my petition with only 1yr validity 🙁
Hello All,
I received below update for My case ID
Can some please help what does it mean.
Notice Explaining USCIS’ Actions Was Mailed
On November 18, 2016, we began reviewing your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC16XXXXXXX. We mailed you a notice informing you of the action we intend to take on your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice and submit any requested materials. If you do not receive your notice by December 2, 2016, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.
Thanks,
Rahul
Rahul, What was your previous state? Received or RFE…??
Hello Oracle,
Previous status is Received.
Thanks,
Rahul
Hi All
May I know What documents to submit for Speciality Occupation rfe?
Thanks in advance
Hi Guys,
Is there a way to track “e-request” for RFE in case you didn’t receive RFE by mail? My Lawyer filed e request for RFE and wondering if I can track progress on that.
Thanks,
H1BStillPositive
Hello Guys,
I would like to know if I can transfer my petition to another employer its not yet approved , in RFE Specialty occupation.
Can anyone suggest me ?
No you can’t. You can get it transferred only once it gets approved
Hi ,
Currently my H1B is REF status (its in RP) don’t know how long it will take.
And i got married recently , planning to apply H4. Is there any impac to my H1B because of H4.
Please advice me.
After 7 months long wait, its approved on 16th Nov. (Received to Approved directly )
NON AD/RP – EAC16148XXXXX
are you from MNC company or small consulting cmpany?
Dear Readers,
I had strange experience in Kolkata Consulate today. In the final counter, i was asked just 3 questions i.e. Location, Client name, highest qualification and if I have a kid ( as didn’t take him) but not a single question to my wife. He returned my old passport and kept all our current passports and gave a smile but he didn’t explicitly told me if visa is approved or not. Since he has collected all passports so I was interpreting that it is approved. After 4 hrs, i received 2 emails from noreply@ustraveldocs.com for the passport collection for myself and my wife but no mail for my kid. Then i checked the status in https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx and saw mine and my wife’s status is ISSUED where as my Son’s status is ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESSING. Now I am confused whether our visa is really approved.
Approved.
Tip : When in doubt ASK!
Dont worry man, some times mail wont come, but u will get the password with visa stamp, dont think too much.
sorry, *passport with visa stamp
It is approved for you and your wife . But for baby it is in process . Baby passport will also get approved . So dont worry , you might collect all your passports with stamping within 10 working days of US consulate
It is approved for you and your wife . But for baby it is in process . Baby passport will also get approved . So dont worry , you might collect all your passports with stamping within 10 working days of US consulate .
Issued means -> Visa Issued . But printing , collecting passport take two to three working days .
Administrative processing – Means yet to approve . it means they are verifying your baby details like birth certificate , hospital , place like that
Hi All, My case status was approved and got a decision email, from the details in there, I filled my DS-160 and Paid the Visa Fees by cash in Axis Bank.
Any one knows when will the confirmation number will be activated ?
Thanks!
i did the same thing and i received one receipt from Axis bank along with receipt number. I believe that receipt number is the confirmation number which you need to fill out while taking your visa stamping appointment.
Update:
So after few hours, ustraveldocs automatically updated with the confirmation number. which is same as the 2nd row of the payment receipt. named as “Bank Reference Number”
Hi All,
Any one from Prosoft, Approved till date. Please respond.
Regards,
Visa Interview at New Delhi on 17th Nov 2016.
Questions:
1) What is your designation
2) What is your current designation
3) Who is you client
4) What they do ?
5) Roles and responsibilities
6) US Salary
7) Did you work at XX company in India ?
8) How did you find this job ?
9) where is you Client located at ?
finally Visa Approved.
Except Approval notice no Documents were asked and Yes, Confidence is the key.
All the best to all of you for your interview.
Congratulations
Hi Saurabh/Kumar
I have two H1B’s this year, one from my current employer which is now Approved and another from a different employer which is currently in RFE. My current employer is now asking me to get visa stamped and travel immediately.
1. Would this situation create any issues during my stamping?
2. Is it mandatory to revoke the petition which is in RFE before stamping?
Thanks
No . VO will know only the one which is approved the one which you have filled over DS 160. No issues carry on with the one Approved.
Any one of TCS got H1b approved?
Yes, PA on 22nd
Hi raj
When did you receive your approval hard copy from the time of petition approval ??
Hey raj,
Did u get rfe?
If yes please share the details as to when u received the rfe and when did tcs responded and when u got the approval?
Mine was approved on Aug first week without rfe, got the docs on Oct last week.
Hi Experts,
My H1B Visa application 2016 (attaended visa int in Feb 2016) and is still in administrative processing through a consultancy, can I apply for B1 from my current company.
Please let me know, it is bit urgent.
Thanks
Untill your passport iss dispatched from Consulate you cannot apply for any other VISA.
Saurabh
Correct me if am wrong
After long wait of 6months my case got approved directly today.
Non-ad/regular/EAC1614250***.
Thanks to redbus for valuable information. Will get ready for visa interview.
Hi
What documents to submit for Speciality Occupation rfe?
Thanks
Hello Saurabh, need your valuable input – I have a approved H1b, but my company is having some issues and are laying off people. I have yet to stamp my visa, by any way can I transfer to any other company and can I get new approved petition? What will be the time to get the new approval.
Do I need to with lottery again with new company or I can be in cap exempt?
Plz need your help in this
Thank you
If you have approved petition then you can transfer to any other company and that will be CAP exempt. Sometimes even when approved petition is not available, people have managed to transfer just on the basis of Receipt number. The time frame involved is about 1-2 months depending upon how soon your new employer prepare the application. It can be expedited by going through premium processing.
Hope it helps
Thank you so much for your reply. I have not got the approved hardcopy with me. But have the I129 receipt number, can we file with this too.
Thanks
Yes, you should be good to go, next step is to find a new employer.
Finally case is approved after RFE.
Below are details:
RFE received : 2nd week of July.
RFE Reason : Employee-Employer Relationship.
RFE Response Sent : Last Week of August.
Documents Sent : Client Letter, Manager Letter, Job Description (No SOW/MSA).
Approval : 3rd week of November.
I think 90 days is the SLA to take action on RFE from USCIS, not sure though.
INFY/WAC/NON-AD/RP
InfyH1RFE
In my case RFE response received on 12-Sep, still no update. WAC1614652***. When was you RFE response received by USCIS.?
Do they really follow 90 days SLA?
same thing here too man , Infy–> RFE response recieved on Sept 12->WAC 16145*****.No status update till now, Other team members have got it approved one month back when they sent the response at the same time,,Very frustrating !!
Hi Saurabh ,,
What will be the case status online if COS is denied and h1 is approved . Will it still show i129 approved or will it show denial notice is mailed. I’m in this situation where i got my denial notice today but im expecting that would be cos denial but not sure
My COS will definitely get denied as I travelled to India after April and my RFE was all about that. Please keep me posted if u find out about the online status change in this case. For me it is still in RFE response received.
Yes priya, i’ll. and u too post in case u have any update .
My RFE response was received on 24th August.
Hi Saurabh/Kumar/Audience,
I am a silent follower of this Forum since very long and appreciate the way you guys respond. I am not sure if i am in trouble again and seeking your help if you could help me out regarding my concern.
My Application was filled in 2015 and after an RFE it was got approved in Nov 2015.
Currently I am in US but today i got an email from my employer saying that “USCIS initially approved the Petition for Non-immigrant Worker (Form I-129) for my name, they have informed us that this approval was issued in error. Therefore, the petition has been reopened and additional evidence is required “.
I am BSc in physics and was asked to submit all the Degrees certificates that i have but with an additionally comment “An explanation as to why all of the classes that were taken by the beneficiary are directly related to the specialty occupation computer concentration” I dont know what document should i submit to suffice the request.
Could you please help me with that.
Per worktheme.com – the Decision Notice (visa denied) count is roughly 3 per 100 approvals. I think this is very high. Is this normal?
Hi Friends,
My employer has submitted my RFE Doc on 6-oct but still there is no response.
Anyone can tell me by when expect the response, since more than 40days , Ia m eagerly waiting for its statsu.
rfe response time is 90 days,starting from rfe documents received to uscis.
who is your employer.mine is the same case. Rfe is regarding client letter
Saurabh/Kumar/Experts,
I got rfe on 10th Sept. Employer responded on 1st October. My status is still showing as rfe was mailed. It isn’t updated to rfe response received yet.
Is that something to worry about?
If anyone else is facing the same issue?
rfe response time is 90 days,starting from rfe documents received to uscis.
Atul,
What is the response time of updating the status to rfe response received, after submitting the rfe documents?
For me it was updated on very next day when my employer sent the response.
who is u r employer?
finally got approval. EAC16146XX
I got RFE on 27th OCT. Lawyer Replied week after with PP. So on 4th Nov Got status update about Response Received of RFE and later that day the status changed to Case is Received and Receipt Notice has been Emailed. (For PP). But Today the status change to only Case Was Approved.
If I am not wrong PP will get Case was Approved and Approval Notice has been Emailed.
Any One got similar situation?
Kumar? Saurabh ?
Thanks!
I have RFE on employer. USCIS is asking to provide – Invoices, Payment receipts, services/goods being traded, payroll summaries of last 6 months, W-2 forms, Form 1099, State wage reports, quarterly federal tax.
What do you think should be the outcome of this? I mean to ask how are the approval chances for these kind of RFEs. I am so tensed.
Regards,
Your Friend
Ant TECH MAHINDRA lucky guy/gal so far on Stamping ?
I am waiting for the documents… How about you?
Hi Saurab,
My status has been changed from “my case received” to “Amended Notice Was Mailed.
On November 15, 2016, we sent you an amended notice describing how we will process your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC1614454***.¿ It is being processed at our Vermont Service Center location. Please follow any instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your amended notice by December 15, 2016, please go to www.uscis.gov/e-request to request a copy of the notice.
I have applied for 1st time. Please help to understand this.
Passports (Mine, Spouse, 2 Kids) are received today with visa stamps. What documents should i ready in-hand at port of entry?
Hi Saurabh,
I had one concern, what is the SLA for responding to an RFE?
ex : i received RFE on 8-Aug-16, till when can i respond them back with the docs?
Also when can i expect the approvel from USCIS
Normally you have 90 days to respond!!!
Imtiaz,
On which location did you attended. Did you find any rejection at any of the counters by given color slips/221g
Imtiaz, Read Port of Entry Checklist for H1B visa holders
Hi Friends,
How to check whether slots available or not for next month to visa interview,
Thanks,
h1b
Visa interview on 16th Nov, Hyd consulate:
VO: Can I have your petition
Me: Handed over i797
VO: is it a new opportunity
Me: yes Mam
VO: who is your end client
Me: XXXX
VO: What are your roles and responsibilities?
Me: XXXXX
Then while scanning the passport, she saw the US stamping on my passport and asked,
Of you already have a H-1?
Me: no Mam, it’s a business visa
VO: Have to ever been to US
Me: yes Mam, couple of times. In fact I was in the US last month.
VO laughed and said… Your visa is Approved 🙂
———-
Guys, main key is confidence and proper preparation. Good luck to everyone.
Is the VO is Foreigner ?
ME: Good Afternoon officer
VO: Good Afternoon, How are you?
ME: I am doing good. How are you?
VO: I am doing great, can I have your I797 please (PP’s were already passed onto VO by security officer prior to my turn)
ME: Gave I797
VO: After checking on computer, your petitioner is XXX.
ME: Yes
VO: How many employee’s work for your employer.
ME: XXX employee’s
VO: What is your highest level of education
ME: XXX
VO: What is your salary in US
ME: XXX $ per annum
VO: Who is your Client.
ME: As mine is in-house project, said I ll not work for any client, will be working in Head office supporting one/multiple projects
VO: How did you know about this opportunity, whether it is a new employment?
ME: I have been working for the same employer from past XX/XX in India.
For my Wife:
VO: How long you been married?.
Wife: About XXX years
VO: Which location are you going?
Wife: XXX Location
VO: Have you been to any other country before?
Wife: Yes, to XXX country.
Looked into computer for 1 min typing something….
Finally your Visa is been issued, have a safe flight to US.
Is the VO is Foreigner ?
ME: Good Morning officer
VO: Good Morning , How are you ?
ME: I am good. How are you ?
VO: Passport please
ME: Gave PP
VO : After checking on computer , Your petitioner is XXX.
ME: YES
VO: Have you ever been to US ?
ME: NO
Vo:what are roles and responsibilties?
VO:How ur project helpful to client XXX?
VO:What is total EXP?
For my Wife:
VO:when is ur marriage date?.
VO: where did your marriage happen(place)?
Finally please collect the passport after 3 days .5 -6 minutes max and she approved almost all H1B visas so please be cool
Thanks for sharing your experience.. have happy and safe life in America
Vinayak.
Hi All and Sourab,
My case has been Denied after RFE on nov1st 2016. My company wants to appeal through lawer.
RFE: As per his words my educational is not qualified. But he didn’t share RFE details with me.
I applied through Prosoft.
Any one form Prosoft selected/approved.
Note: After Denied, If we reappeal is there any chances to approval?
Regards,
Vinayak.
Hi..
Did you complete a 4 year bachelors degree in Engineering?
If so, what is your Major?
Hi Spartan18,
My qualification is: M.Sc (Organic chemistry)
And having 8 and half years of experience on SAP.
and 9 years on chemical experience.
Curretly I am working in SAP .
That’s Good.
Was just wondering if USCIS was following their standard set of guidelines to decide on a petition.My assumption in your case would be that not having a 4 year degree in “computers” education. Even though your Employment suffices the petition eligibility, I think that’s where they magnified. Again, I could be totally wrong.
Hi Spartan18,
If reapeal, can I get a approval chances.
My employeer planning to re appeal through layer.
Regards,
vinayak
Hi …
I am not sure if repealing again will give you different results. First of all, do you have a Bachelors or Masters degree in computers Science or any major closely related to Computer science?
If yes, then there is a chance. I think the problem here is because you claimed “Chemistry” which is totally unrelated.
Please correct me if am wrong.
Status update on Passports post Visa interview
Wife H4 – ISSUED and now ready for pick-up.
My H1B – ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESSING. Last update date was the day of interview 😐
Finally….the freaking 8 month long journey comes to an end.
H1B – ISSUED ( Was in admin processing for the last 2 days).
H4 – ISSUED and collected from the VFS center.
Cheers,
Zohaib
Anyone from Gbtechnic?
These guys are telling that till now they are telling that they have not received the rejected petition neither they are telling that my case is picked in lottery?
What do we do these guys, they are not respondingproperly and simply say attorney is following up
Not sure what to do
Saurabh,
Any suggestions , pls ? Can we file case on them if they are cheating in India?
Yes, if you have proof, IPC-406- criminal breach of trust and 506 (i) – criminal intimidation.
Thanks Crs let me see..
Got my passport yesterday with a 3 year stamp 😀
Cheers,
ZK
Hi Saurabh/Friends,
Could you please help and suggest if H1B Amendment is possible with Soft Copies of Receipt I-797C along with the Approval I-797?
I hope it is not mandatory to have hard copy of Approval and Receipt in order for the new employer to amend and transfer the case.
Kindly throw some light in this regard.
Not Mandatory , photo copies would do..
STRANGE but TRUE:
Most of the People who were issued 221G are disclosing as they attended Interview !!!!! for their clarification in the forum; But those who are through, No news on the forum.
Anyways, All the best who are waiting for Approval and interview.
Thanks to those who shared their Interview experience.
Hi,
Finally after long wait my status changed to APPROVED
RFE — 5th August
RFE RESPONSE — 28th October
Approval — 15th November
Thanks a lot everyone and redbus..
Good luck to all
Sujay,
After the RFE, does your status changed first to ‘RFE response received’ and then it got approved? Or the status directly updated from ‘RFE was mailed’ to ‘Approved’?
Not directly after Rfe changed to rfe response received (that was on oct 28th) and then approved on15th November
Sujay,
After your employer sent the rfe response, how much time it had taken to update your status from ‘rfe mailed’ to ‘rfe response received’?
Congratulations!
What’s your series?
Did you upgrade to PP?
Thanks.
My series is EAC161435xxxx .its in RP only
Was you rfe processed in California, is your employer a large cap organization
It’s Vermont center..mine is not that much big organization
Yes
hi
did you applied through consultancy?
Great Sujay. Congrats!
H1b_INTERVIEW_CHENNAI(15th Nov 10:30 AM)
ME: Good Morning officer
VO: Good Morning , How are you ?
ME: I am good. How are you ?
VO: Passport please
ME: Gave PP
VO : After checking on computer , Your petitioner is XXX.
ME: YES
VO: Have you ever been to US ?
ME: NO
VO : What would you do for your employer ?
ME: I will develop TB for their SOC design suing latest verification platform available in semiconductor industry. I have more than 5 years of experience in this industry. (I was more Confident than I thought I would be )
VO: What is your salary ?
ME: XXX amount per year( It is >95K so no further question on this)
VO : have you ever been refused VISA( His face was like he found some thing in his computer)
ME: Never( I said it confidently , ignoring his facial expression)
VO : Checked few seconds more in his computer.
ME: I was looking at his face and expression with all my focus
VO: Finally Golden words. “Your VISA is Approved”
I got very nervous when I reached the interview queue and saw many unhappy faces after interviews , So I started thinking about my first kiss and really forgot where the hell my body was that time. My mind came back only when I was next in line and I had very less time to feel nervous because I was just in front of the counter and next in line.
When My turn came, I kept all my documents in front of counter, had almost all documents original and xerox arranged in proper categories( like financial , educational , VISA Petition related etc). VO looked at my documents like what the hell is this and who is gonna take a look into all those files , I am telling you I could just read this from his facial expression and I think I got my VISA approved in that exact right moment. He didn’t ask for any documents except my passport.
I had learned a lot from the experiences shared in this forum and hope my experience will also help some of you guys.
Thanks
VK
Thanks a lot Vikas for sharing the details. This will be very helpful for everyone… Congratulations!!!
Congrats!… What was the Interview Appointment slot booking wait time?
Sam,
It is 7 days for chennai.
Thanks Vikash..
Hi Vikash,
Thanks for sharing your experience. Congratulations, good luck.
Hi Vikash,
Need your email ID.
We have lots common as far as Semiconductor Industry is concerned.
Mine is not yet approved.
My email is innovativevikash@gmail.com. Responses might be bit delayed becoz it is not my official Id.