This page is constantly updated with latest news, info, FAQs on current H1B 2018 season. Below are some topics, FAQs covered on this page.
- Start of H1B Visa 2018 season ?
- H1B Quota for FY 2018 ?
- H1B visa 2018 Lottery Predictions ?
- Plan for H1B FY 2018 Application ?
- Find Visa Sponsors for H1B 2018 ?
- H1B Visa 2018 Fee ?
- H1B 2018 Lottery Results
- H1B 2018 Petitions Tracker – Crowdsourced
- New President Trump Administration Impact on H1B Visa 2018 Quota?
- Latest News updates of H1B FY 2018
H1B 2018, 2019 Season is over, H1B 2020 Season Starts on April 1st, 2019. Check out H1B Visa 2020 – Start Date, Fee, Lottery – FAQs
If this is your first year of H1B visa filing, you must read What is H1B Visa, Requirements, Process . Not to scare you, Last year, there was lottery for H1B season and for FY 2017 USCIS received 236,000 applications .
When does H1B Visa 2018 Season Start ?
Update : USCIS accepted H1B Petitions for FY 2018 starting from April 3rd, 2017 until April 7th. They updated that H1B Cap was reached on April 7th, 2017.
Typically, USCIS accepts H1B petitions for next fiscal year starting from April 1st. So, for FY 2018, the start date for accepting applications would be April 1st, 2017. But, for FY 2018 season, April 1st falls on a Saturday, so USCIS will accept applications starting from Monday, April 3rd, 2017. If you were wondering why called 2018, when in 2017, it is the fiscal year dates that dictate that. USCIS fiscal year is from October 1st to March 30th. So, technically the fiscal year for 2018 starts from October 1st and they accept petitions for the same 6 months before the start date and it would be April 1st, 2017. You may read USCIS Press release for H1B 2017 Start Date
What is H1B 2018 Quota ? Regular Cap vs Master’s Cap Quota ?
Update : USCIS confirmed the below quota cap numbers in latest press release for FY 2018.
To get some background, read H1B Quota – Regular vs Masters . There have been many speculations on increasing the H1B Cap due to extremely high demand and bills proposed for the same in the past, nothing made it through. As of writing of this article, below is the H1B cap quota. We will keep this article updated as new changes come in. The total H1B Quota as of today is 85,000 and it is split like below.
| Regular H1B Quota | 65,000 |
| Master’s H1B Quota ( Only US Masters Degree Eligible) | 20,000 |
Out of the above 85,000 quota, 6,800 are set aside for Singapore and Chile citizens as part of the free trade agreement between them. Also, check out the article with history of maximum H1B Cap from 1990 to 2017
H1B 2018 Lottery Predictions ?
It used to be a speculation whether we would have lottery in previous years, but in the past 4 years, lottery has become common. It is very likely that we would have lottery aka random selection for H1B 2018 season. We have been writing predictions over the years and all of them have been accurate so far. Check out our H1B Visa 2018 Lottery Predictions – Data Analysis to get an idea on how many H1B petitions you can expect for this fiscal year.
Update : USCIS Received 199,000 H1B petitions for fiscal year 2018. H1B Lottery was conducted on April 11th, 2017.
Are you planning for next fiscal year, Read H1B Visa 2019 – Lottery Date, News, FAQs
When to plan for H1B 2018 Application – What should be your strategy ?
It is never too late to start planning…Depending on your situation, you may fall in one of the below categories and the suggestions are described below.
- 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.
- Working Professional from outside USA : If you are a working professional outside US, planning to work in US, especially on H1B visa, your best bet is to find Multinational companies ( MNCs) 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. There may be many people already in-line for these visas, you need to plan carefully so that you are given a slot in the company’s filing for your next season application.
- Other H4, L1 Visas : If you are on these visas living in USA, 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.
For FY 2017, we have put together a Step by Step Plan on How to apply for H1B 2017 Quota, it gives a guideline on the planning and what steps exists.
How to find H1B Visa Sponsor for FY 2018 quota ?
This is probably the most asked question by everyone. It can be a tricky decision, you need be very careful to avoid fraud.
- 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.
- If you are professional planning to arrive in US from outside America, it can be really 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
We have an article that we wrote for previous season, you may read article How to find H1B 2017 Sponsors to find out various options.
What is H1B Visa 2018 Fee ? How much does it cost for the company ?
The H1B fee varies by the size of the company..As of FY 2017 season, it can range anywhere from $1,600 USD to $7,400 USD + Attorney Fee. On December 23, 2016 , USCIS increased the H1B fee component of base filing fees, which was $325. The below table is updated with the latest fee updates from USCIS. 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 from FY 2017 quota. If any changes, we will update this accordingly.
| H1B Fee Component | Fee in USD |
| Base filing fee | $460 |
| 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 |
H1B 2018 Lottery Results – Checks Cashed, Receipts :
One of the most asked questions is when will I get to know the lottery result for my petition. Well, this depends on many factors and there is no set SLA or date. To put things in perspective, last year, USCIS did a news alert indicating that they have returned all the rejected H1B petitions on July 8th, 2017. So, you can expect the last date for receiving final lottery decision around mid July 2017. …As we had about same number of petitions filed for FY 2018, it may be slightly earlier or even later in July or even early August 2017… Few of the ways you would know, if you are selected in lottery is that, if the check that was filed with your H1B petition was cashed, or your employer gets the actual physical receipt notice in mail to them. If you filed under US masters quota, SEVIS update is another indication that you were selected in H1B lottery for FY 2018. Ideally, your receipt numbers should arrive within 1 to 2 months…but, you never know, until you get a reject notice to be sure !
H1B 2018 Case Tracker :
Did you apply for FY 2018 ? With premium processing suspended, it is quite hard for applicants to know the general status of everyone to understand their situation. 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 2018 Case Tracker” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/h1b-visa-tracker/”]
New President Trump Administration Impact on H1B Visa 2018 Quota?
We do not know, if this news release is directed by Trump administration or not…but, on April 3rd, 2017 the start date of H1B season, there were set of new announcements made by USCIS to report and prevent abuse of H1B program. Check out USCIS New measures to report, prevent H1B Fraud . Besides this, as of the today ( article updated date), nothing has been officially ordered or specifically implemented by New President Trump Administration. There are many speculations on how H1B program will become tougher with higher wages, quota limits, etc… but, nothing has been officially signed. We will update the article as new updates come in.
Various H1B Bills in US House and Senate – Will they be passed for FY 2018 ?
There are few bills that are introduced in 2017 and at various stages in both house and senate. There are many confusions regarding the same bills like the minimum wage will go up to $130,000 USD, etc. Fact is that nothing has passed and there are very slim chances for them to get passed before start of FY 2018 season. You can check H1B Bills Tracker to get more details on current status. We will keep the article updated as new things are passed.
Latest News about H1B 2018 Season
High Level Latest News for FY 2018 is listed below. But, all the Latest News are tracked on our H1B 2018 News and Updates Tracker Page. Check out below.
- April 17th, 2017 ( Official ) : USCIS released a press note indicating that they received 199,000 petitions for FY 2018 quota. Check article : Summary of FY 2018 H1B Cap Lottery 199k Petitions
- April 13th, 2017 ( Unofficial ) : ImmigrationGirl, an attorney’s blog, confirms that one of their H1B petitions Masters’s cap checks were cashed yesterday. It is weird that USCIS is processing the petitions, without announcement. It means that Lottery was done to some extent at least Masters quota, but announcement is yet to come. Check http://immigrationgirl.com/h-1b-lottery-progress-begins/.
- March 15, 2017 : USCIS Accepts H1B 2018 Petitions from April 3, 2017
- March 3, 2017 : USCIS Suspends H1B Premium Processing for FY 2018, All for 6 Months
[prompt type=”left” title=”H1B 2018 – 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 2018 Season.” button_text=”Latest H1B 2018 News” href=”https://redbus2us.com/h1b-visa-2018-cap-count-updates-tracker-latest-news-info/”]
Are you planning for FY 2018 quota ? What are your questions ? Add your thoughts.
i work for an MNC, had filed RFE response on Aug 8th, Today status is Decision maild.your petition was denied on October 2nd. Can anything be done now? My company is yet to receive a formal documentation
I am sorry to hear that:( Please wait till you get your decision notice. In the Decision notice the reason for denial and the ways to challenge the decision would be listed. You can follow it and file MTR within 30 days.
any chance it will be approved ?
Depends on how strongly you re appeal for the denial. Depends on the documents you submit. But re appeal process takes loads of time and cant be expedited in any way.
Next year, i dont have to go through the lottery process?
You have to undergo lottery process again.
May I know what was your rfe ? And what are the documents USCIS was asking?
1) EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEE RELATIONSHIP.
(2) SPECIALITY OCCUPATION POSITION. ***CRITICAL***.
I am sorry to hear that. What were all the documents you submitted ?
Thanks Chandra and Ram for your valuable inputs.
I just got a notification and on checking USCIS website , I see that my petition state has changed from “ Name was updated “ to “ Case was received and the receipt was emailed”. What do I infer from this ? Does this mean, my petitioner has upgraded my petition for PP(which at this point I am unaware of ) or it has a different angle to it.
Thanks in advance for your inputs/guidance. Appreciate it.
when it says receipt was emailed, always be sure it is in PP now. Only PP department sends an email for receipts else it is all mails only.
Yes yours has been upgraded to PP. You (Attorney/Employer)can now get all correspondence through email. Good luck!
Premium Processing Now Available for All Petitioners Seeking H-1B Visas
https://www.uscis.gov/news/news-releases/premium-processing-now-available-all-petitioners-seeking-h-1b-visas
Hi Ram,
Got H1b approval nnotice now there is no requirement from client.
Thinkng to change client by raising amendments…
Can I apply for amendments by Premium Processing??
Is it open or yet to open??
Generally amendment alone cant be applied in Premium processing. Please check with your Attorney on this.
I heard that CTS has stopped sending North America Onsite even if we have Visa. Is it True?
hi,
Looking forward for suggestions pls.
My H1 was approved last year thru Employer A, and am still working with the same company. The petition was approved for client X. Since company doesn’t have project with the original client A, they have chosen me for the Client B. and so I’m planning to go for a visat stamping for this new client (amendment is being initiated) and its a new project. Can someone pls help me with below.
1. What type of questions VO may ask with respect to the change of client?
2. Is it necessary to carry approved LCA for a new location?
3. My child was born in US when I was there previously on same visa. He doesn’t need visa and hence wont come to visa interview with us. Will this have any impact on the visa interview?
Was your amendment petition approved? If no, I would recommend you to wait for its approval and then go for stamping.
1. If amendment is approved, they question about current project/client only.
2. Better to carry it.They can ask anything.
3. Since your kid doesn’t require a Visa, there is no need to take him. I don’t think this would impact your interview in any way.
Good luck for your stamping!
Thanks Ram for the update.
Company has filed for a new LCA which would be available in 8-10 days. They file amendment after person reach US and it can take few months before it’s approved.
If they file amendment later(after stamping), then its better not to mention about it in the Visa interview. Talk only about the project that was petitioned for or for what you are going to get stamping.
I got status changed to “case was appproved” by September 15. But still we didn’t receive the approval through mail from uscis. Is there any time frame ?
I have heard approval notice arriving a month later too. So I would ask you to wait for one more week. If the approval notice is still missing after a week, please request your Attorney to contact USCIS customer care.
Thanks Ram
Received an RFE in June.. employer submitted the response in September and status changed to Response to RFE was received…
Just yesterday status got updated to RFE again..
What does this mean??
Thanking you..
In this updated status, does it also say that you would receive the RFE notice within a stipulated date where the date is about 15-20 days after today’s date. If yes, then you have been issued a second RFE:( You will have to wait for the notice to reach your Attorney and work to clear it. God luck!
In this updated status, does it also say that you would receive the RFE notice within a stipulated date where the date is about 15-20 days after today’s date. If yes, then you have been issued a second RFE:( You will have to wait for the notice to reach your Attorney and then work to clear it. Good luck!
Yes it does say that… Starting is jus like the first RFE… If it’s a second RFE
Is it common to get 2 RFE??
Can v say it’s NOID??
What are the odds for approval???
Have there been cases in past where case have been approved after 2 RFEs??
Thanking you
Hi Ram,
I have a work experience of 7 years and working in same company right from the start of my career. I applied H1 through other company . When they ask for exp letter I can only provide my paystubs,offer letter,bonafide letter,from 16. As the current company wont give exp letter.. will it create any problem during stamping ?
Please do check with your Attorney. There might be some alternative document that you may need to carry. Do update it here when you hear it from your Attorney. It would help others facing same situation. Thank you. Good luck on your stamping!
Talk to your current manager so that he can work with the HR and get the company letterhead.
Get your job details listed in detail, list your peer qualifications, and also make sure you were promoted in this company, because that is very key if your experience needs to be considered, since they look for progressive experience. Have the promotion letter as secondary proof. Hope that helps.
Hello Ram,
After the wait of over 150 days my case finally changed today from the very famous and daunting “CASE WAS RECEIVED” to very confusing “NAME WAS UPDATED “
I am really not sure what this means as neither my petitioner nor I have initiated any such activity from our side. Is there anyone with similar scenario ar have gone through this.
Inputs would be higly appreciated
It was the same case with me. My Employer responded to my RFE on 21 Sep 2017 and later my case status was changed to “NAME WAS UPDATED “. But then on 28th Sep the status was changed to “CASE APPROVED”.
At some internal step, your name would have been entered wrongly in the system. Visa Officer would have realized the typo and would have corrected it. Sometimes such internal changes/ update are reflected in the USCIS site. No worries about it, be happy that they are working on your case. You will get an update soon. Good luck!
Thanks Chandra and Ram for your valuable inputs.
I just got a notification and on checking USCIS website , I see that my petition state has changed from “ Name was updated “ to “ Case was received and the receipt was emailed”. What do I infer from this ? Does this mean, my petitioner has upgraded my petition for PP(which at this point I am unaware of ) or it has a different angle to it.
Thanks in advance for your inputs/guidance. Appreciate it.
Everyone over here, My attorney just received the approval notice, even though my online status still shows as RFE Response Received. Here are the timelines and other details hoping it helps someone:
CAP : 2018 – New Petition
RFE Reason : Beneficiary Qualification ( B.Com from no 5th university in India, but work in IT, I landed in IT because of a happy coincidence, and not by conscious choice)
RFE Date : Jun 28th 2017
RFE Response Date : Sept 20th 2017
Approval Date : Oct 2nd 2017
Company Profile: Very niche software company but a market leader in its domain and is a public listed company.
Total Industry Experience : 15 Years
I am from a non-IT background but work at a very senior level and could get this tough RFE approved based on certain special documentation, that I gathered over the course of a year foreseeing this RFE well in advance even before the petition was filed.
I got through the lottery in my 3rd attempt this year.
I will be writing a blog soon about how to successfully attack this RFE to have success every time.
I worked very much as a team with my company attorney, and often times it was more of me flooding them with questions and working as a team sharing ideas. We have a great attorney team handling our cases.
Oh yeah, I sure was paranoid as hell through all this and did not leave even one loose end.
All who are waiting please dont lose hope, make sure you work with your attorney and prepare very strong documentation, that can be successful no matter how many angles its challenged from.
Being from a law background helped me understand the various sections of INA quickly as well. Yes, I read the INA in the last three years almost end to end, and know a lot of sections by heart. 🙂
Congratulations!!!
We used regular processing only and not Premium. Just to add..
Congrats! Which center?
@ImmiAdvocate,
Congratulations and thanks for sharing the details. Please update the blog link once you have written. Thanks.
Congrats. Is this pp or non pp?
Congrats!
How did you strengthen your rfe response?
Hi all,
Just wan to share this good news:
H1B extension got approved last week. (received in mid Jun). Nebraska service center (LIN)
Online status is still “Case Was Received”
My theory is if you haven’t heard anything from USCIS you are probably fine because they will definitely let you know early on if they decide to issue RFE or deny your case.
This happened to me when i first applied H1B: got in lottery in April, got RFE in July, RFE received in August then waited till the NEXT January, my attorney finally made a phone call to USCIS, they said my case was approved way back in August but for some reason didn’t send out notice… (WAC)
Good luck!
Congrats!!!
Congrats! Thanks for update.
My h1b extension got approved on 9/29/17!!!!
Received date 7/28/17
Approved notice date 9/26/17
Case # LIN 17 230 xxxxx
Congrats.
Congrats!!!
Congrats! Thanks for update.
My Case status is “Case was received” till today (2nd Oct) and the case was filed under normal processing by 11th April 2017. I also read that from 3rd Oct, the premium petitions will be processed. Any idea as when the petitions, that are currently under the status “Case was received” filed under the normal processing will move to the next status?
@Vinoth,
As per USCIS guidelines, there is no obligation for them to respond (send RFE or Approval) in fixed timelines (like before Oct 1st for April application) for regular application. Meaning you may receive the approval or RFE in any day and also it may drag on for next year too. So, my suggestion is if you are in US then better upgrade to PP. In PP, USCIS will respond within 15 days. Also, if your employer not willing to pay the FEE $1225 then they may agree to PP if you bear the expenses. Good luck and all the best for your approval.
Shri
Hello Ram
Need information as i picked up in lottery in 2017 and got ref in the month of 11 September 2017 for eduction evidence, can you please let me know that type of education evidence USCIS need as I have done bachelor degree from Pune university even I have check with my employer regarding this they don’t need any documents from my side.please let me know that evidence USCIS need form my employer. Even I am little bit worry.
Based on your post, I think USCIS is asking for educational evaluation. Since your degree is obtained from university out of USA, you will have to submit a document explaining its equivalence to US degree. Based on your mark sheets and degree certificates, the educational evaluation can be obtained from some established organizations which provide those services. Your company can easily arrange them and that’s why they would not have asked for any details. So don’t worry, your company can handle this better. Good luck!
Shri
Hello Ram,
Thank you for update.
Also can you please let me know how much time it required for obtaining evolution from organisation and final approval.
Hi Ram,
My H1B visa is approved and my attorney has got an email receipt. What should I expect as futher steps as in what document should I expect from my employer. Also will there be an I 94 Change.
Thanks,
Vijay
Hi Vijay,
Congrats. Is this pp or non pp?
pp
Congrats Vijay. You need to get your approval notice from them. If you have filed the visa in COS, your new I94 would come along with your Approval notice. When you start working on H1B, your employer has to share the LCA with you(on the first day of your work on H1B visa). If you are to go for your stamping, check this
https://www.immihelp.com/visas/h1b/h1-visa-documents.html
https://redbus2us.com/new-h1b-l1-visa-stamping-documents-checklist-by-us-consulate-general-office/
for the list of documents required. Please note that the list is not limited to the ones mentioned in the link. They might vary, please check your consulate site for updated details.
My H1b visa was approved on Sep 29th, after RFE (online status was updated).
How long does it usually take for the attorney to receive physical copy of approval?
Thanks in advance.
Congrats on your Approval! You will receive it two to three weeks of time.
Thanks Ram!
Is it I-129 that attorney has to receive or both I-129 and I-797C?
I am in US but I am planning to go home end of October, so trying to gather all the documents before leaving.
Thanks in advance.
Attorney receives only I797. I129 is retained by USCIS. Though a copy of it would be given to you when you go for stamping. Good luck for your stamping!
Adil- Was this regular or PP? How long it took for the RFE approval.
It was regular. RFE response received by USCIS on Aug 25th.
Hi All,
Got 221(g) white slip during Visa interview asking for Client letter. Now the client is not giving the letter from their end. So please suggest what I will do. I am very much worried. (They kept my I-797 and returned my passport)
Is it possible to withdraw Visa application? and change the client using amendment?
then again go for stamping for new client?
Please let me know if any one having same experience.
What was your interview location. Did you get any RFE earlier ?
India-Kol. No RFE..
Hello.
If your dependents have only basic working knowledge of English and are not very fluent in speaking, will that be an issue getting their Visa stamped ?
No issue. There are officers who takes interview in local languages also. I observed someone getting interviewed in Tamil at Chennai
Dear Sharma,
My H1B receipt was on 4/11/2017, RFE on 7/13/2017 and Response to RFE on 9/22/17. Iam in UAE
How long will it take for the approval status.
Dear Sharma,
During Visa interview scheduling, select your preferred local language (from available option) other than English. All the best!
Thanks Pharma and MRS.
Hi All,
I am planning to travel to India from US for First time H1B stamping next week.
Anyone aware of the stamping trend in Kolkatta / Mumbai consulate?
Its little urgent, someone please help me in this. thanks.
Ram,
I am on STEM OPT. I recently lost my job and the company I used to work for had applied for the H1B petition. The current status of the petition is “RFE: Response received”. My question is, If i find a new job can it be transferred? (once the petition gets approved ).
yes. if that’s filed under COS. Not sure if it is filed under CP.
But, I had heard you need to work on the h1b status for a couple of weeks and get the paystubs before it can be transferred
You can also transfer Visa without pay stubs. Though bit tough, it is not impossible!
Hi Ram,
Sometime USCIS send second RFE and sometime they Deny after first RFE, What is the criteria for second RFE vs Denial?
Wanted to know as I got first RFE and afraid on what will happen next.
It varies depending on the case. For some cases, adjudicator may have required further clarification hence would have issued second RFE. In some others, the answer would have been completely unsatisfactory or the response of RFE may not be complete. If so the cases would be denied.
Right now I would ask you not to worry about what might happen. You must be concentrating on what you should do now. Work closely with your Attorney and prepare the best response. You have the best chance now in hand to get your Approval. Put all your energy and effort in collecting information for response. Allow your Attorney to compile them as response and send it. I am sure you would get your approval. As long as you are providing genuine answers, nothing should bother you! Good luck!
Thanks Ram
Hi Ram
I came to US on jan 21st 2017 and my h1 b visa is valid only for one year . How earlier I can apply for extension ?
Also I was in us before 3 years (2010-2013) and then came to India and again traveled on 2017 jan will I am eligible for all h1 b 6 years ?
Is PP IS applicable for extension?
Normally what is possible now to get the extension now ( with or with out PP )?
Thanks
@PR
How earlier can I apply for an extension?
120 days before the expiry date.
Also, I was in us before 3 years (2010-2013) and then came to India and again traveled on 2017 Jan will I am eligible for all h1 b 6 years?
YES.
Is PP IS applicable for an extension?
As of today, NO. but we are expecting PP will be open up for all the cases in October 1st week. Keep Checking uscis.gov for the update.
Normally what is possible now to get the extension now ( with or without PP )?
You can get approval for both options. At the moment only regular option is available. But, you can upgrade to PP once it is available. Also, with an application receipt, you can work for 240 days beyond the expiry date. Check with your employer/attorney for more information or check USCIS website too.
–Good luck and all the best for your extension.
Thank you so much ?……
Can you please let me know what is the success rate ?
@PR under what visa were you in US from 2010-2013?
HI RAM
I was in L1b during 2010 to 2013. Now I am in H1 b.
Can you please let me know what is success rate for h1b extension now a days?
ok got you! Thanks for the information.
H1B extension completely depends on the authenticity of the case. If you have the all the required documents and information along with the petition, extension is given. So no worries! Good luck on your extension!
Thank you Ram and @3rd timer for all your help and valuable informations.
Thanks
hi all
is pp suspended for master degree cap or for all regular
Harish, Premium processing(as of 09/30/2017) has been enabled for all FY2018 Cap Subject Petitions.
Dear Ram and all,
Thanks for being of great help. I’m already in US on H4 and have received RFE this year which has been responded. However I in advance talks with another company with is logistically and salarywise better than the current offer. Once the approval come, can I shift or change company without a single payslip. There will be significant salary difference.
Please so advise.
Thanks
Yes I have heard of transfer of Visa without payslips. It is possible.
My VISA expires on 30 Sep. I have recently arrived in US and still to apply for a SSN. Extension is filed and I have the receipt number. Can I still apply for a SSN
SSN is issued when DHS provides authorization to work(for non immigrants). So you could give it a try by visiting the local SSN office. They may or may not issue. But its worth the visit to know rather than speculating. Do post your outcome.
Hi Ram
Immigration girl news :
I’m happy to report that we have been receiving approvals of H-1B petitions after RFEs involving Level 1 Wage:
Are we getting more approvals now after RFE?
Is the approval for PP or non PP. petitions are also getting approved?
I believe that PP or not PP, outcome of the case remains the same. Just because a case is expedited it doesn’t mean they would deny it. I am sure if you provide the best response to RFE and if the case is genuine, approval would be given.
Congratulations to everyone who have got their rfe approved. Please can you share the response given to prove wl1 rfe. It would help everyone.
For Specialty Occupation RFE Response; Does any one included Letters from other employers in the industry stating that they normally require a bachelor’s degree in a specific field for the occupation in question?
Hi Ram & All,
Any advice for best external agencies who prepare certification letter to prove specialty occupation? I’m thinking to include it to make stronger response to RFE.
It’s called as ‘expert opinion’ and your lawyer will know where to get it from for your field of work.
Hi All ,
I have been following this discussion and this was the only source of some kind of support in this uncertain situation which we all face, I finally got the approval by Email today 8 am.
I would like to contribute and answer any questions you might have.
My petition was applied by 2 different companies. Luckily both of them were selected in the lottery. I was ecstatic.. thought that all is done now.
Then the wait began !!!
4/11/17 —Petition received
utter silence ….wait wait wait
9/5/17 — RFE !!! Petition A (WL1, SO)
No news from Petition B
Petition A lawyer hesitant to reply for some unknown reason. But thankfully no news from Pet B yet , so no news is good news.
Last job ending 9/30.. no news ..more stress
9/18 : Premium processing resumed !! Yay !! some hope !
9/20 : Petition B upgraded to PP
9/21: PP received
9/22: PP papers approved for processing
Wait.. wait .. last day of work approaching !! ( Absolute stress)
Finally !!!
9/29/17 : Email from USCIS 8 am – Petition B Approved !!!!!
I certainly can understand the situation we all are going through , it’s nerve wrecking. Thank you Ram and all the others, for supporting and encouraging each other and refraining from demeaning or sarcastic remarks . Keep supporting and helping each other. !
Many Many Congratulations AGS! Happy for you.
Congratulations!!!!
Congrats and thanks for update!
Congrats. Is it possible for you to share your response content. Thanks.
Hi,
The employer was very reluctant to send a response and I was requesting him to do it ASAP. Till now no response was sent. However the lawyer said if the employer asks to send the reply they will ask for an expert opinion and reply with opinion and that should help.
My petition was approved for the second employer with no RFE but I did upgrade my case to PP.
Hi everyone,
My case finally got approved!
Thank you everyone here….
Below are my timelines
After H1B Selection, Received RFE on 6th Sep [Very stupid RFE, The adjucating officer requested the document that was already sent]
RFE responded :- Sep 13th
PP initiated :- Sep 27th
Final Decision(Approved) :- Sep 28th.
Congrats!!!!!
Hi Team, My petition got approved on 25th September after submitting the RFE docs. All the comments and advises in this blog we’re very helpful.
Hi Congrats.Are you from wage level 1?
Yes , My petition comes under wage level one.
hi Vishnu,
even i got the same RFE can you please share what was your Response.
Hi , they asked for manager letter. I submitted a revised manager letter mentioning my roles and responsibilities. RFE was submitted on Sep 1st and approval notice received in 25th September without PP.
Congrats!!!
Hi Ram, I was in Mexico City for last couple of months as part of a project implementation for the same client in US. Will that be an issue while I go for visa interview ?
That should not be a problem. Do mention it when asked for foreign trips in DS 160. When you had a valid reason for visiting a place, you should not have any issues.If asked for, clearly explain the purpose of visit. Good luck for your stamping!
Hi Ram,
How soon can we expect to hear back from USCIS one the premium processing is initiated. I initiated a PP after submitting a RFE answer? I know the deadline is within 15 days but as of now how soon is USCIS returning the requests.
Some people are reporting that they have received an approval within 2 to 3 days after submitting an RFE with PP.
Hi Ram,
Just wanted to check what is the timeline to respond to RFE?
Thanks,
Nimesh
I submitted the response on 12th Sep….. haven’t heard back.
Total 12 weeks from the RFE request date.
The deadline to respond to a RFE may vary too. Usually its 12 weeks. The deadline is mentioned in the RFE notice.
Hey Guys,
This is related to H1B 2018 cap, My case is received on April 11 2017 but no update so far in the status.
Can you please let me know, if you have any idea on Oct 1 2017 ,I will be able to get the status or work here
Simona, There are loads of such cap cases still in received state without any update. I don’t USCIS considers October 1 as a deadline to clear all the cap subject cases. Right now with many cases getting upgraded to Premium processing, USCIS may be concentrating on them. With just few days left, you may or may not get a decision before October 1. If you want to know your decision faster, you can opt for Premium processing of your case. Good luck on your Approval!
You cant work if you are in Cap-Gap. But you are authorized to stay in US till you get the response (approval,RFE or denial) from USCIS. If you get the Denial then you have to leave the US immediately. If you get an approval then you can resume work from the day the approval happened. If you get an RFE then you can’t work but continue to stay.
If you are in STEM OPT with valid EAD card with validity is beyond October but applied H1 with COS then you can continue to work till you get the response. Only in denial case you run in to problem.
Alternatively you can ask your employer to upgrade your petition to Premium Processing. Some employers are unwilling to upgrade due to extra expenses involved ($1225) and in that case if you willing to bear the additional cost then they may agree. As per USCIS rule the beneficiary are allowed to pay this PP fee. If you upgrade to PP then you will get the response from USCIS within 15 days.
Good luck and all the best for your approval.
Hey Guys,
Like many others, I also got a Wage Level 1 and Specialty Occupation RFE along with some other generic RFE. I am concern on type of response we can expect USCIS. USCIS seems pretty diligent on issuing Wage Level 1 and Specialty occupation RFE’s this year. I know, its attorney job to make affirmative argument and convince USCIS that entry level job still needs specialized degree / education. But, what I dont know how if there are cases that got approved under wage level 1 and specialty occupation. It would be good to know approval rates under such RFE.
I would like to open this question and concern to everyone, and especially to those who got their approvals so we can all learn from other what know on this RFE so far.
Would appreciate your inputs guys.
I am writing this based on few of my friends experience.Their RFE was to prove why they are being offered only WL1 salary though its a specialty occupation. They proved it by providing examples of other professionals working for same designation(Same industry & Area) with the quoted salary. They also provided some org chart to prove that the job they perform needs constant supervision though a specialized one to again prove the salary point. Few among them got approval last week. Rest all awaiting to hear some news from USCIS. Hope this helps you! Good luck!
Thank You Ram,
So we do have cases that are getting approved.This helps.
I hope everyone gets through this REF.
Good Luck guys.
of course yes! Just prepare your response well! The approval is yours. Good luck!
I am currently on F1 OPT. If i have 2 approval notice through consular processing (one from cap-exempt employer, the other from cap-subject)? Am i still cap-counted if I go stamp with the cap-exempt employer petition?
Based on 2014 AILA interpretation: “If the H-1B is revoked before the beneficiary can be considered in H-1B status – i.e. before October 1 of the given year, or if they consular process, prior to the beneficiary using the petition to apply for a visa/admission, then they would not be considered counted under the cap.”
So I want to know if it matters which one I go stamping with? Job wise, I prefer to join the cap-exempt employer, but being cap-counted or not is also one of the thing I have to consider.
Steven, if your cap subject H1B is withdrawn before Oct 1, you will not be considered cap exempt. Just ensure your H1B is not withdrawn before Oct 1.
So Withdrawal before Oct 1 is the only factor you should worry about. You can get stamping for any one now and use other when you want to. There is going to be no much issues on that.
Hi Ram,
I have not travelled to US even once. There are no H1 openings for next six months in onsite or even more. My visa expires on Sep 2018.
Can i transfer to new employer after visa expiry? will it come under cap exempt category?
Yes, you can transfer until 6 years. The rule is that you will be counted against cap only once in 6 years
Hi Ram
What does the below mean? PP already started right?
Source: ImmigrationGirl site:
Unofficial info from USCIS indicates that it is on track to resume premium processing for all H-1B petitions by October 3, 2017.
PP currently available only for doctors, non-profit organisation and people undergone lottery this year (Y2018, Oct 1st starting date). And , it is not available for people trying transfer, amendment and other visas etc. So, it looks like USCIS makes it available for everyone from October 1st week. That’s is very good news for many folks.
Hi Ram,
My case status has changed to ‘Case was Approved’ in USCIS website 🙂 Thank you for all the support.
RFE Received date: July 7, 2017
RFE Response sent date: Sept 1, 2017
Approval Date: Sept 27, 2017 (Regular Non Premium)
Please let me know your thoughts on below two questions
1) How much time does it typically take to receive the physical hard copy of the approval notice?
2) Does the hard copy approval notice itself contain how many years the visa has been approved for? Or is the number of years of approval finalized during stamping only?
Thanks in Advance
1. It would take a week or two weeks max.
2. Yes. It should contain the validity. But I guess VO may have the authority to shorten the time but not lengthen the time.
-Congrats for your approval. And good luck & all the best for VISA stamping and safe travel to US.
Congrats on your Approval!
Congrats…thanks for update!
Congrats for your visa !
I have a question, when you sent RFE response , does your online case status changed to Response for RFE received ? If so, after how many days it got updated to Response for RFE received ? Also is it EAC or WAC ?
Your response will be much appreciated. Thanks !
Saran,
My case status got updated in two days after sending RFE response.
And it is EAC
Hi Ram,
I have visa stamped for location A. I raised amendment for location B and got receipt number for my amendment. Can I fly with receipt number to location B?
Regards,
Rajesh
Oh yes you can. Just check with your Attorney/Immigration team on whether you need to have any specific extra documentation to have a smooth port of Entry in your case. Have a safe journey!
Ram – Can you please answer my query
Oh yes you can. Just check with your Attorney/Immigration team on whether you need to have any specific extra documentation to have a smooth port of Entry in your case. Have a safe journey!
I got mail from my employer that my H1B got approved after RFE. On USCIS site status still shows ‘RFE Response Received’. I got 8 page RFE asking wide range of evidences related with specialty occupation, education,SOW, employer-employee relationship, org chart and various other questions. Even my employer has to arrange for certification letter from external agencies to prove specialty occupation. So I request all not to loose hope and wait for the outcome.
Congrats for your approval. and thanks for updating.
Congrats on your approval!
Congrats ?
Congrats for your approval!
I have a question, when you sent RFE response, after how many days case status got updated to Response for RFE received ? Also is it EAC or WAC ?
is it premium or regular ? Your response will be much appreciated. Thanks !
Saran, My RFE response was sent by my attorney on 14th August and on 16th August USCIS was updated . It was WAC and under regular processing.
Congratulation Sharma ji!
May i know what kind of certification letter your employer arranged for from external agencies (name please) to prove specialty occupation. My RFE have same type of question and would like to know more from you.
Pharma,.
It was an expert Opinion letter. There are many reputed agencies in US providing such expert Opinion letter. My employer hasn’t shared the name of agency which provided expert opinion letter for my RFE
I have one quick Question.
I got an RFE on my current H1B(amendment) to submit client letter and other employee-employer responsibility question. But I got another job offer few months back and that H1B is approved now, can I just start working with other employer on approved H1B, or should I wait for my current employer’s RFE to be cleared!!
P.S: This is not related to H1b2018.
My guess is you are authorized join the new company and request the company, which has a RFE to withdraw.
Ram,
Pls can you share your contact details to reach out.
VA, tell me.. how can I help you?
Is there any phone consultation given or its only thru this blog?
If you are comfortable discussing here, lets do so. This might help other users in future too. If not give me your email id, will drop you an email.
Hi Ram,
Please give me your number too. Need some discussion. My email id buddy_shashank@yahoo.co.in
Ram, This query was for my husbands rfe. His id is cmreddy@hotmail.com. pls respond.
Thanks.
Hello Everyone,
I got RFE on 07/18/2017 for H1B wage level 1 and my lawyer responded to RFE on 09/20/2017. My employer confirmed by checking FedEx tracking that RFE response reached USCIS office on 09/22/2017. But My case status online is still showing as RFE. Generally USCIS will update the online case status to Response for RFE Received in one or two days. But i am worried that my status is not updated yet. Is there any other way i can check whether USCIS received my response for RFE? Your reply will be helpful. Thanks in advance.
one point that I could think of is, the online system is not getting updated properly. They might have actually received it but they might not have updated the system. So what we can do is, we can request your Attorney to call USCIS customer care and check on this ASAP. We need to do this, before your deadline for RFE response would end. Do update this thread once you get a response from them. Good luck!
Hi Ram,
I came back to India as my L1b got expired in July. One point of my RFE is I have abandoned the COS. I thought if you travel, COS automatically goes to Counselor processing. Any idea why EAC has issues me RFE with this point along with other points?
In your case, the previous status(L1B) has expired. The basic rule to apply COS is the current visa needs to be active until the petition for the future requested visa is approved. Since the previous Visa has expired already, this has resulted in RFE. If you are planning to extend your L1B, then you can state that in your response. If not, then please do consult an Immigration Attorney on how to handle this.
Had your previous status has been active and you made a travel, I don’t think you would have got this RFE. Good luck! Please do update us on how you are handling this. This would help others in same state too.
https://www.uscis.gov/visit-united-states/change-my-nonimmigrant-status-category/change-my-nonimmigrant-status
This article may help you to understand when COS is applicable.
Hi Anyone from SPERIDIAN got approval after RFE wage level 1???Pl reply
I am an in serious problem. I received RFE with four different objects: Specialty occupation, LCA, validity of status and such. I tried to upgrade to premium processing but my lawyers say it is not recommended in my case to upgrade to PP because of multiple RFEs. I do not understand this argument. Does this argument make any sense?
By my lawyers, I mean lawyers of my employers. It is a large MNC.
What is Validity of status? I am on the same boat as you RFE for Wage 1, abandon of COS as I left USA. It is strange that EAC has issued RFE for abandon of COS, I was thinking COS should automatically be changed to Counselor processing
Sad soul, many employers don’t prefer PP. I have no idea why. Though you have multiple RFEs, if each are handled in the right way and you opt for PP, I don’t think there would be any issues for you. Expedited or normal, cases are going to have the same outcome.
May be if you are willing to bear the cost, you can request your employer to opt for PP by stating that.
Hi Ram,
I am working for a big IT company.
I got RFE in Aug and petition approved on last week of September . During RFE my employer asked me to submit SOW , End Client letter , Payslips ,Offer letter etc. Bt I got approval without submitting ECL as it was not available. I am not working in the same proj or client anymore . I have two questions ,
1. Can I go ahead with stamping without end client letter .What documents they ask in interview ?
2. Should I file ammendment with new LCA before stamping ?
You may require client letter for stamping. They may request for it. So if the project is no longer available, please go ahead file amendment and get it approved.
List of documents required for stamping are:
https://www.immihelp.com/visas/h1b/h1-visa-documents.html
https://redbus2us.com/new-h1b-l1-visa-stamping-documents-checklist-by-us-consulate-general-office/
The list may vary depending on consular center. Do check their site for updated list. Good luck!
My petition got approved in Mar 2017 for Client A Location A . Now my employer want me to send for Client B Location B, so the employer is going for H1B amendment.
I have not done with H1b stamping.
How much time it would take for amendment (Change of client and location) as my project will start in Nov 2017.
Can I go for H1b stamping if I have receipt for H1B amendment
@Wellwisher,
Since there is no Premium Processing (PP) for amendment and transfers of H1, It would take at least 3 to 6 months for regular processing. However, everyone anticipating that PP will be reinstated for all the cases from October 3rd or later. Once PP is available then you may get the approval within 15 days. After that you can go for a stamping.
Since some people are reporting that in some consulates, visa officers are asking client letter specifically, it is better to go for the stamping after the amendment. Good luck and all the best for your amendment approval and travel.