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.
If I suppose filled the Intended date of fly as 3rd Dec in DS160 and got the schedule of interview on 11th Dec for stamping, would that be questioned during interview or will there be any impact?
If I suppose filled the Intended date of fly as 17th Dec in DS160 and if I goes to US on 11th of Dec, would that be questioned in POE?
can someone please explain the meaning of ‘case was approved’. My application has been in this state since 10 oct but I have not received the approval notice. Will they change it to ‘case was approved and my decision was mailed’ only after mailing the doc…. Mine is RP
My Visa got stamped today (29th Nov’16).
This are my interview questions asked:
-> Who is petitioner ?
-> Total number of experience in IT ?
-> Client name?
-> Duties you will perform in US ?
-> Role going to be in US?
-> Salary in US ?
Thanks redbus2us.com for all updates. Keep rocking.
Congrats Puvi
Cheers !
Which consulate you went ?
My case got approved EAC16143
Transferred on 20th May
RFE on 28 sep
Response received 9th Nov
Approval 29th Nov
Feeling awesome.
Was it Premium Processing?
No it was regular
When did you send the response to RFE actually (just wanted to check how long did it take for USCIS to update to received)
Many Congrats “H1B Reforms”…what was your RFE all about ? Is it a small consultancy or a big company like TCS , Infosys? Please guide us, i am also having RFE.
It is not an established mnc as such but has a strength of12000 employees it will be better to refer it as mid level staffing solution provider with few ODC as well.
They didn’t asked any documents from me so rfe must be related to employer exact reasons were not communicated to me.
My response was sent on 7th Nov and status changed on 9th Nov.
Once again thanks and best of luck for the guys waiting for d decision.
My case status changed to “Response To USCIS’ Request For Evidence Was Received” today-29th Nov 2016. what is general timeline USCIS will to respond back on my Case? Can you please let me know.
Un predictable buddy , It may take 1 week to more than 90 days , My case (RFE) is >100 days not yet approved but when i upgraded to Premium they approved in 2 days.
Hey H1b_he
Finally my petition got approved this morning.
On December 6, 2016, we approved your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC16142XXXXX. 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.
Here is my case status flow:
Mine is regular process .
1.Case was received status: 24-Apr-2016
2.Requesting for additional Evidence: 07-Sep-2016 (REF type: specialty occupation & Right to control)
3.Response received to REF:28-Nov-2016 (Regular)
4.Approved:06-Dec-2016
I have a question: Are there any general timeline to receive approval notice?
Will Trump reforms on h1b impact existing H1b holders? Can anybody comment on this including Admin!!!
my case has been approved on 12 sep,16 but I have not received the approval notice copy yet. any idea what could be the issue?
H1B Reforms if any should be more about more rigorous validations by uscis and being a non imigirant visa h1b holders might not be able to file for GC so yes it will affect your renewal and Gc application, its all speculation though.
Plan to write an article on this, stay tuned.
went for finger print yesterday and interview this morning. Both went smoothly. Nothing new to report other than the same old story, VAC center go in and get your finger print done. took only 15-20 mins.
Next day (today) 11 am was the time. 10:30 queue was still out so they asked all of us to wait on side, then about 10:45 am they asked us to continue in the line. took about 5-7 mins to get in, they checked passport at the main entrance let us go in. then it was the security like airport. after that there were queues of benches under a shed, it was in the complex of consulate but out side of the main building. they were letting people in, queue by queue. after 15 mins, they let us in, first was the fingerprint scan, then the queue continued waiting for a window.
Visa officer was a young african american lady.
I went with a copy of 797(lawyer sent by post but didn’t received yet).
VO: where is the original?
Me: told her the samething as above.
VO: looking at the 797 (the approval time was 3 years till 2019 so) is this just renewal ?
Me: No first time for H1.
then she went in side with my passport and 797 copy, took her about 3-4 mins to comeback
VO: so you are gonna be working for XXX ?
Me: yes.
VO: what is the position, salary and location?
ME: XX, YY, ZZ
VO: when did you start working for them?
Me: started back in 2014 when I was on OPT, they applied in 2014 and 2015 for H1 but didn’t get picked, so after the OPT ended I came back and continued as a contractor for them
VO: ohh cool!
At this point it was just small talks about my education and graduation and all, she asked for my old passport which had my student visa stamped. she looked at it.
During all this she kept typing something while asking, talking.
She asked me to sit and wait and told me that she needs to verify my details. waited for 15 mins. at this time i was the only one left in the consulate, it was lunch time i think. after that she called me. and told returned the 797 copy and kept the passport and told you are all set. And have a good one.
Mine was similar experience in Mumbai time 11am. Except I hv travel us earlier on L1 and B1 and h1b is direct with US Co as employment. Question ask..
1.give 797
Me.handed original 797
2.u had visa earlier.
Me. yes L1
3.Is this same visa
Me. No
4.how did you got this job
Me. Work in past and they like my work. So when they had vacancy, they contacted me
5. Is this in house project
Me.yes
6.what is project location
Me. Mention city n state
7.what is your salary
Me. Told $$$$$
8.you are approve
Me.Thank you.
Did any one of TCS got H1B Visa approved for the year, I was asked for RFE and have submitted long back. Still awaiting for result/update.
Hi TCScer,
I submitted RFE docs. to tcs Visa dept/Attorney on 24th Oct’16, and attorney, after verification, submitted docs. to USCIS on 14th Nov’16. Till now no updates from USCIS.
What was your RFE about
Hi, Employee-Employer relationship.
Hi TCScer,
Just few minutes back, checked TCS e-mail,: My petition got approved on 22nd Nov’16 🙂
Wondering even though it was Approved on 22nd Nov’16, Couldn’t you check status online 22nd Nov’16 till now?
Only got status from company e-mail?
Just curious to know 🙂
As per TCS policy, they cannot share case number until they get hard copy of Approval notice from USCIS.
WAC:
May 24 2016: One of them picked up in lottery
July 8 2016: RFE
August 10 2016: RFE Response Received
November 26 2016: Converted to PP
November 28 2016: Case finally approved! I am at peace
Bottom Line : There is no 90 day limit for RFE response my case is >90 in RFE response received stage so i converted to PP .
Thank you Admins for your valuable information. 🙂
Hi,
After Upgrading to PP, what status they updated from RFE Recieved before approval?
It changed to “Case Received”
My case also upgraded to premium and status is ‘Case Received’ on 23rd Nov, Still no update.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/11/28/obama-expands-h1b-program/
Hi KSPH1bInfy, I couldn’t copy this url. Can you pls give the headline to Google this doc?
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/11/28/obama-expands-h1b-program/
Obama Challenges Donald Trump by Expanding H-1B Outsourcing Program
Thanks n it really seems to be interesting..
Status site is down in USCIS hopefully some updates
Hi Saurabh ,
We have applied h1B for me and h4 for my husband as well as for my kid..
I have attended VISA interview in chennai consulate and got 221g asking for details on my project though already provided documents in the interview
I am not sure how soon my employer will provide necessary documents .
My husband’s employer is ready to file H1B for him.
1.Will there be any impact for my husband to file h1B(next year) though h4 is in 221g ?
2.Do we need to withdrawn h4 221g for my husband before apply h1b ?
3. whats the process and how much time it will take to withdrawn h4 221g ?
4.While filling h1b petition / VISA or interview my husband need to mention anything on h4 221g ? Do they track based on his passport
5.Is there a chance h1b petition is revoked by USICS ..
To avoid it can I apply for H1B cap exempt by finding new employer for me…
6.How soon that needs to be done ..and how much possibility new employer will accpet eventhough 221g for VISA ..?
7.Do I need to withdrawn current 221g before apply through capexempt ..?
Please advice …us your help will be appreciated ..we are in a confused situation…
Let’s see trump effect for next year h1b filing. Go ahead with present.
I have my H4 stamped and h1b pending received. Once approval and stamping, i might get have h1 and h4 stamped provided they dont cancel h4. My spouse is traveling on H1b, can I still use h4 and travel for some time. Then later re-enter on H1 and start working? Is that possible ?
EAC161475**** got an RFE status on 18th Nov. Yet to get the info from attorney……
Still Status is same “CASE WAS RECEIVED” since April.
Wondering now if we get Approval this year or next year 🙁
How long we need to wait without any deadline/ETA. Anyones on the same front?
I am also in the same boat. No updates so far. Still in ‘Case was received’. Got frustrated.
Anybody who have transferred their I797 prior to stamping from company A to company B?? What was the time required and was there any issue??
Is it preferable to process the transfer using PP ??
Please guide your inputs are appreciated
Thank you
My H1B visa is issued without the Description of “Clearance Received” in Annotation although I was processed through “Administrative Processing” after the interview on dated November, 10th 2016.
The reason I am asking about this Clearance Received is, my colleague and Brother Mr. Nasir Khan traveled on his Valid H1B visa back in March 2014 without this Clearance Received description on his Visa and USA authorities stopped him to fly further to U.S.A from Frankfort, Germany and the reason told to him was that his visa has not the description of Clearance Received. He was sent back to Pakistan and his visa was cancelled. He then re-applied for the new Visa and new visa was issued with the description of Clearance Received. He traveled to U.S.A on this new visa and allowed entry without any problem.
My Father has also a B1/B2 visa issued by U.S embassy with the description of “Clearance Received” and he traveled to U.S.A twice without any problem.
I will be traveling to U.S.A with my wife and two little kids in Month of January 2017. I want to make sure that the absence of Clearance Received writing on our visas will not be a problem to enter U.S.A. Please look into the matter and also advise what documents would be necessary at PORT OF ENTRY for the trouble free entrance into U.S.A???
Brother Kashif,
Can you please explain me, what is ‘Clearance Received’, would that be printed in words or any notation in VISA. Would that required in all US-VISA.
As I have already went to US last year with B1, I don’t had any print as like this, and i too went for PORT of ENTRY enquiry in Germany and Altanta but cleared. Similarly when i travel one of my friend has also came with me with B1, and for him also there is no such indication in the visa, but there is no question for him, we both belongs to same religious community.
Please send me email at kashifkhan1986@ymail.com
https://cdn.ampproject.org/c/www.livemint.com/Opinion/rEL3yd3T7EHfeb4XP4uZQK/H1B-visa-Indian-IT-companies-seem-like-latest-Donald-Trump.html?facet=amp&utm_source=googleamp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=googleamp
Hi,
My file is still showing Case Was Received status since April 11, 2016. Am feeling very frustrated and disappointed as well. Not sure what I need to do now. If anyone has any suggestions please comment. I have no clue what I need to do now.
Thanks,
Sim
Hi Sim,
I am from Bangladesh and in the same position “Received”… Don’t know when will this be ended…
Sim
Me too in the same boat feeling very frustrated this has been going on from April and dont know when this would end. Does any one has the link where it used to show how many cases are still pending.
Thanks,
Still_Recieved
Guys,
Please share your employer names. Mine is Mavrick
Got RFE on Oct 18th and my employer told they will reply before last date(Jan 9th). They didn’t encourage PP for some reason. Again started waiting and feeling sad 🙁
RFE received on October5th, employer says he will reply by Dec end. God knows when will this never ending wait END!!
Dont worry dear friend. 90 days you will get to response.
Same RFE received in Oct 1st week no response till now
My question is for people who appeared in interview or knows about this, I want to know if I can appear in the interview with copy of approval notice ?
My package will take some time to be delivered. Its held in customs and they can take as much as some time they feel like.
No you cannot.
You need original copy
Hi,
I hope to help you.
The same happenned to a friend. His paperwork was Lost in customes. His attorney told him that he should not have any problem by going without the original one as long as he explained what has happened. He took the risk, and as in the embassy they also receive the information of the person, he did not have any problem by going without the original.
Good luck!
Copy is acceptable.
Yes you can appear with photocopy. Many of my office colleagues went on photocopy.
Hi
Received RFE on october 18 th , Contacted My employer they did not provide any complete details , but they informed that it is education related.
They have not responded to the RFE yet , and they told that the deadline is till January 9 th ..
Fed up of with this waiting , and worried too!
Mine also same . Received RFE on Sep 29 . My employer told me they have time till Dec end.
Same here Jahnavi. Got RFE On October 18, 2016 and employer told that the last date is Jan 9. Waiting for my employer to respond to RFE.
I can understand the frustration as I have travelled on the same boat.. Don’t worry and trust ur employer.. That’s the best which u can do to ease ur nerves.
I got RFE details in August with deadline to respond in Nov 1st week. I was frustrated and worried too. My employer responded on the final day which further increased my tension as we don’t know how these responses are sent(FEDEX or any other faster medium) . But after a tense period of all these months it was great to see my case getting approved within two weeks of response sent..
So, hope for the best and spent these waiting time in something productive(go out for a vacation or learn something new) which should help to pass this endless waiting.
Just thought of sharing my experience to ease nerves of all the friends who are waiting for their outcome.
All the best guys and thanks Saurabh for maintaining this blog.. You are doing a great job buddy..
thanks Sumi it eased my tension in waiting, also got an rfe last Aug but rfe resp rcv still since Sep., Hope all is well and take a break in thinking about it.
Thanks submit. I am feeling light now.:)
*Sumit
Thanks Sumit
Hi Sumit,
Mine is also the same. My employer also replied on the last day. Is your employer a consultancy or big firm? Did you apply in regular or PP for RFE?
Hi There,
Employer is tier 2 MNC IT Company.
Filed under regular.
Hello friends,
I am happy to share that my case has got approved.
RFE Issued: 7-July
RFE response received: 12-Sep
Approved : 18- Nov
WAC
Most probably my Client will get changed. Can you please suggest what is the better way forward.
1. Stamping on current petition and then amendment. Will I have to go for stamping again?
2. Amendment and then Stamping.
Hi,
I am also same position.
My H1 got approved through company A and i have the approval notice. Is it safe to leave Company A without getting it stamped or should i wait for stamping,provided new employer is not ready to wait?
What will be the difference on H1 if i left company A without stamping,provided i have original petition and Approval notice
Thanks
Hi,
if you put notice for company A can revoke your visa, and if you have not transfer to company B, you are not cap counted. so you have to transfer to company B and get it approved after theat revocation from company A should not matter.
personally I recommend transfer visa first and then resign and if you are not so sure about comapny B’s profile then get stamping done as well.
Regards
GoodGuy
Thanks for reply!
But i think if once your petition gets approved and you have original notice and all other docs,then another employer can file cap exempt anytime till next year till next 6 years.
Please advice
Hi,
If you never been to status, and employer revoke your petition, you are still cab counted you may get smooth transfer but now a days attorneys are saying 50-50 chances in this case.
To be on safe side you have to have approved petition from employer B, before A revoke.
I am not demeaning you here with this comment but please read your English for Grammar mistakes before you post any comment!
At times I wonder the difference between those software engineers who go on to work at FBs/Ubers/ Googles of the world and those who work through consultancies!! Screwed Up H1b Program!
I am also in the same situation, I have filled for transfer to company B, can I do premium process, how many days will it take.
So I will be going for ammendment first and then only will go for stamping.
Plz guide if this is a correct way to go?
My H1B interview was in Kolkata.Process is very simple but until your stamping is done it is very hard to believe. You will have fear in your mind.
On 17th Nov my biometric was there. They took photo and finger print.I was asked my DOB and the officer (All were Indian in biometric office) matched it with ds160. My wife was asked her DOB and my son’s DOB thats all.
On 18th Nov my PAI was there. Their staffs will guide you till counters. There are 7 counters. First, i was taken to the 2nd counter. One Indian officer was there. He asked me my designation in current organization, My client name and location. To my wife, he asked her designation at her school(my wife is in govt school) and how long she is working. The person was entering data into system. Then he returned our passport and I was taken to the counter no 4. An American officer was there who asked me
client name,
where would i go,
what would i do there
And to my wife, what was her surname before marriage. He said your kid is very handsome after seeing his photo. Then he took our finger print again.
Once done, I was taken to next counter no 5.
An american officer was there. He asked me my
Client name,
Client location,
My highest qualification,
If I have a kid
Not a single question to my wife.
Finally he kept our passport and gave a smile.
The entire process was over in 1 hr. By 9:30 am we left the counter and by 1:30 pm we received email for passport collection.
Be confident, stay cool. If you don’t understand the question then ask him to repeat but do not guess.
Hi Sourab and All,
After Denied, If I reapply for second evaluation, Shall I get approval?
What is the percentage of approval after denied cases because of education.
Any hopes on this?
Please respond any one on this.
Is your RFE reason is of Education ? whats ur highest education ?
Hi h1bedu,
As per my Consultancy, they said that its Denied bcoz of education.
My Qualification is: M.Sc (Organic Chemistry)
Workingon: IT (SAP 8 and half years)
If I reapply for second evaluation, Shall I get approval?
What is the percentage of approval after denied cases because of education.
Any hopes on this?
Regards,
Question for guys whose RFE response was received by USCIS. What was the time between when your employes has mailed RFE response to USCIS and when your status was updated to response received….thanks for the help
It took 2 days for me. My employer submitted the response on 7th Nov & status got updated on 10th Nov.
I got RFE on 10th Sept. My employer sent the response on 1st Oct. Still my status isin’t updated to RFE Response Received. It is showing as RFE was mailed.
I’m too worried 🙁
What was your RFE about
my employer submitted on 20th october.Still no update.
HI
My case also same my employer submitted on Oct 21 and case status still Evidence was received state not updated yet
My Employer submitted on Nov 22nd. Package received by USCIS on Nov 23rd and Status was updated as Response Received on the same day!!
Hi Saurabh,
I would like to thank you for maintaining this wonderful blog. I have been following it for long time.
I am happy to share that my case has got approved.
RFE Issued: 7-July
RFE response received: 12-Sep
Approved : 18- Nov
WAC
Most probably my Client will get changed. Can you please suggest what is the better way forward.
1. Stamping on current petition and then amendment. Will I have to go for stamping again?
2. Amendment and then Stamping.
Anyone from Diaspark here?
Yes I am from Diaspark, I attended embassy interview on Oct 31st 2016 and Visa got approved. Please share your mailId.
Thanks,
Ramesh
9848757666
RFE Received : Aug 31st 2016
RFE Response sent: Oct 26th
Finally Approved on November 23rd
Thanks to the forum.
Mine is Non-AD/RP
which service centre?
what was your RFE about ?
California Service center
RFE is on Employer- Employee Relationship.
Your ‘s is in house project ?
Yes, Its In-house project
is your project in house one ?
My employer has filed my H1B Visa for a client and now it is approved status.As the Visa processing started last year at that point of time requirement was there in that project , now my employer wants me to go for another client another project, my question is what is process of getting Visa changed to another client another location and how many days it take.
Saurabh,
I got my visa stamped in Oct 2016, I have not travelled yet but my employer is asking me to wait until Feb 2017, he said he wants to observe changes /decisions post elections. Am really not sure if he asks me to come at all.
If I change to a different employer do I need to go for stamping again ?
Please help me on this..
thanks,
GK
Gk, Is your employer an Indian mnc or us based company??
Your employer might be right. You should also wait for trump effect because no body wants to leave everything behind in India and go to USA in uncertain situation.
Yes, You can change your employer , it would be like H1 transfer and Non need of VISA stamping again . Legally it is okay but are you want to create a mess for yourself ? There will be lot of questions at port of entry.
Saurabh,
Need your inputs please.
I got my visa stamped in Oct 2016, I have not travelled yet but my employer is asking me to wait until Feb 2017, he said he wants to observe changes /decisions post elections. Am really not sure if he asks me to come at all.
If I change to a different employer do I need to go for stamping again ?
thanks,
GK
My case was picked up in the lottery and it is still in Recieved status, now its almost end of November so feeling very frustrated by the long wait. Is there any one still waiting as Recieved status pls respond. There was tracker link through which we can see how many cases are still remaining if anyone has it can they provide it
Mine is also in the same state. May I know if you applied h1b before.
Yeah this is the 2nd time I am applying I also applied last year but it did not picked up in the lottery.
Its same with me.. we are so helpless with no information on whats the update..
any idea on kiranam technologies ?
Do any one have Approved Petition from X-EDE /MADKI GROUP /MAVRICK , kindly acknowledge . Seems like most of them are in Received and few are in RFE 🙁
This review is about EBS Minds and iEratech. Fraud companies.
I have lodged a complaint with uscis and Department of Labor in USA so that in future companies like EBSMINDS (http://www.ebsminds.com/ & Ebs-minds It Inc) and iERATECH does not flourish in USA . The culprits are Man Mohan Akavaram, Brijesh Vyas and Raghu MUTUKULA. All these 3 people are responsible for taking the money from me (USD 4000) for processing the H1B Visa. After they took the mopney , they have not moved my Visa further and refused to send me for H1B Visa stamping even thought the visa was picked in lottery and Approved. I hope they are investigated by USCIS and DOL and procescuted. I am ready to be a whisteblower and provide evidence in any court of law. Please contact me in India at +91 709319 8849
EBSMinds also goes by the name of ebs-minds IT inc, so beware of this fraud company
First of all you have also played a significant part in the CRIME. It is against the law for the beneficiary to pay for the Visa. You committed a crime by agreeing to pay money.
Most such consultancies which collect money to process Visa, do not have any project/client requirements. So you stand a high chance of denial with the increased scrutiny.
You are also saying that your petition was picked in the lottery and approved. Are you sure it is definitely yours? Did you get a chance to look at the Approval notice to make sure it truly has your name?
What is the guarantee that the consultancy did not collect $4000 from 100 people, applied only for 10 people, got only 2 of them picked in the lottery, and gave those 2 Receipt numbers to all the 100 people they applied for? They may have given the same receipt number for all 100 candidates they applied for. All 100 criminals (I have all the rights to call you a criminal as you paid for the visa – which is against the law) must be having the same receipt number.
You reap what you sow!
@Ethical, you are right. For God sake, don’t jump into any consultancy and pay money. No genuine company would ask for 4K and all. Looks like there is a huge racket behind this kind of motive. because of people misusing this way, they might also add lot of scrutiny in the h1b process.
Buddy Renji>
you are the 1st criminal in this crime, you encouraged them by giving money, if you block ebs this wot stop other consultancies, until people like you keep giving money frauds like those keep rising.
end of the day you missed a chance for a genuine guy, people like you are not worthable to go to US
They are 100% fraud. I very well know as I have several other people feedback. These guys have just develop a website to show people and get money from them. Stay away from them. Put a review on google. Many other people has been cheated by these folks.
Finally, my case was approved.
11th April – Picked up in the lottery
18th August – RFE (Employer-Employee relationship & Specialty occupation)
7th Nov – RFE responded
10th Nov – RFE received
22nd Nov – Case was approved
It was a regular processing with NON-AD.
I would like to thank Sourabh & Kumar for running this wonderful blog and helping out all the H1B aspirants here. Those who are still waiting for approval, I wish all of them very good luck & patience is the key in this whole process. Cheers!
My case series is EAC1614752XXX
Hi Capgemini/Igate,
I am also from cap.did mobility team provided you RFE copy ?
and do you have any idea when they will schedule our visa appointment ?
Thanks in advance,
Cap Colleague
Yes. They have provided me the RFE copy & same has been uploaded in VRF. Coming to your question of scheduling visa interview, once you receive your approval notice they will initiate the process for stamping provided that you get an approval email from your RO & you have all the required docs in hand.
Hi,
May I please know if you received your approval notice?
Thanks
Finally the golden words Case Was approved after long waiting.
24th Sep RFE received.
22nd Oct RFE response received.
‘
‘ 1 Month waiting…
‘
22nd Nov- case approved.
Thank you redbus2us for all valuable information 🙂
All the best who are waiting.. Very soon everyone will have good news..
My Case series is – EAC1614853XXX
what was your RFE about ?
Hey congrats….
Hello Saurabh,
My employer filed H1-b for me, got RFE and my lawyer responded with required documents on 28th September 2016 . In between, my client asked me to become full-time employee otherwise they will not continue with me. Is it recommended to change employer, while your H1-B application is still pending ?
It can happen after approval only
I have got RFE on education evaluation ..I have 4 years bachelor degree on Elctronics engineering
What documents can i submit to respond this RFE
What is the severity of this kind f RFE
Please talk to your attorney. He will help you in getting your education evaluation done.
What are the chances of getting approval ? what is the severity of this RFE
As per me, it’s a simple RFE and will get approved provided you have good IT experience. No need to worry.
I have 5 years of IT experience (nearly 4.8 ) ..is that enough ?
That’s fine.
Here’s a short version of my story:
Oct 2013: Entered US on H4
Apr 2014: Applied H1B
Oct 2014: Informed by employer, my application is not picked up in lottery (probably got conned)
April 2015: Applied through 2 consultancies
May 2015: One of them picked up in lottery
August 2015: RFE
Oct 2015: RFE Received
March 2016: Converted to PP
April 2016: Applied for new H1B
April 2016: Old petition denied
May 2 2016: New petition selected in lottery
May 20 2016: Case Transferred
Oct 18 2016: RFE
Nov 5 2016: RFE Response Received
Nov 21 2016: Case finally approved!
EAC161435****
Small NJ based Desi-Consultancy with in-house project. Did not upgrade to PP after last lesson, not sure if it was the reason, but didn’t want to take a chance. And actually got the result in 15 days anyways.
Great news! After so much of hurdles you won. Enjoy!
Hi Folks,
I Got my Petition Details updated in my Org System
Work Authorization Start date : 14-Nov-2016
Work Authorization End date : 02-Aug-2019
Stamping/Travel to be done by 02-Aug-2019
So People Who get Approval post Oct1, will get Petition Start Date as their actual Approval date
KSPH1bInfy
Can you please share after how many days of approval in USCIS, did GI team receive the approval notice or when it was updated in GICS.
RFE_Approved
One Week Time. Approved on 14th Nov and GI team Uploaded the docs on 21 Nov EST Time (22nd Nov IST Time)
KSPH1bInfy
Thanks a lot. My case got approved on 18-November. I think it will get updated by 25-Nov 🙂
Best wishes
Hi Saurabh/Experts,
My petition got approved,and i have approved petition and original I797B and all documents with me. Due to some personal issues i have to leave my current employer.
Now can anyone please help to understand below points?
1. for filing cap-exempt in future .Does it matter if i don’t get my visa stamped?
2.If i get it stamped now and do not travel so do i need to get it stamped again if i changed the employer in future?
3.Stuck up .Unable to decide whether should i push for stamping or should be ok to have approved petition? Does it make diff if i get it stamped.
As of now looking difficult to stamp
Guys please syggest!
Thanks
I am also in the same situation , I have approved H1B – I797 and am moving to other company. I am in India and will do stamping once I get new approved I 797 and will go for stamping with new company I797 approval.
I just want to know will there be any problem or issues in changing the employer immediately after getting the I797 approved from old employer.
What will be the time period required to get the amended new I797 approved from new employer or need to do PP
Thank you
Ok. So your new employer filed ammendment?
SO have I797 approval notice is enough for filing transfer
Ammendment usually takes 1- 3 months
Transferred : 20/05/2016
RFE : 06/10/2016
RFE RESPONSE : 06/11/2016
RESPONSE RECIEVED : 07/11/2016
APPROVED : 21/11/2016
RP/EAC161485****
Congrats 🙂
Hi RFE_APPROVED_FINALLY,
Is your employer consultancy ? You filed in PP? Pls respond thanks
OneH1Guy
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..????
Your 1 year approved H1B petition will be of no use if you change your employer. Since your new employer will “transfer” your H1, i.e., file an amendment, you will receive a new approved petition, which may have a different validity.
So, you should be fine, if you want to change employers. You could also ask the new employer to file for your transfer under premium.
Lastly, if you dont get a stamping for your current H1, and/or do not travel, it should have no bearing on any future transfer/extension.
Good luck!
Hi All
currently my case status showing response to USCIS’ request for Evidence Was Received-
On October 21,2016 we received your response to our request for Evidence for your Form I-129,Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, receipt Number WAC*******.Our California Service Center office will begin working on your case again. We will mail you a decision or notify you if we need something from you .
please give me info abut how many days it will take for further process.
There is no SLA to make a decison. It could be as soon as tomm till forever. But considering the number of cases have reduced, you could get a decision soon!
HI every one,
Still my case is received and its about to end Nov 2016, when i asked the employer they are saying because of B1 visa stamped and not traveled to USA because of B1 they are holding for H1B.
Will it be hamper my h1b because of my B1 and not traveled ?
Please suggest me the next step or will i expect any RFE?
Nothing of that sort! I also had a B1 visa but didnt travel and got H1B approved this year though stamping is pending.
EAC14850*** Regular
rfe response received : 8 Nov
Approved : 21 Nov
No need to move to PP after RFE, you will get response max in 15 days…this month.
mine RFE resp. rcv. on Sep.14 until now no changes..
I think there is no SLA for this.
mine RFE response recieved on Sep 1st…..
no response till now… all my plans are depending on result, approve or denied, I need desparately…
I’ve been waiting since September 12 🙁
Received RFE approval on 21 November.
RFE Submitted on 17th Aug
Keep your hopes alive…!!1
After submission of RFE, when does your status changed from RFE sent to RFE response received?
Withing a day
Hi Friends,
I was going through some VO question needed clarification as
1) Most of the people are working in Idian company and will be posted to USA based their clients (Generally all clients are based out USA)
2) Some folks are applied H1b through USA based consultancy (Either they have In house project or they might have their own clients)
In this case how to answer for below questions, specially for category number 1.
VO: What is your salary ?
Q: Should we tell future H1 category salary or current India salary?
VO: How did you find this job?
Q: Should I tell my current company job or future client name ?
VO : How did you hear about this company?
Q: Should I tell my current company job and profile or future company?
VO : Client or In-house project ?
Q: Is it some VISA sponsoring company directly developing project in USA without any clients? Please clarify.
Anybody applied through (DEP) Detroit Engineered Products-Troy & Chennai.
No update from Employer. Do not share even Receipt number.