This page has all details, FAQs, latest news updates that are related to the H1B Visa 2020 season that started in April 2019. Previous H1B season details are at H1B Visa FY 2019 Quota.
H1B 2020 Season is over, Check out details of current H1B 2022 season at H1B Visa 2022 – Registration, Lottery, Fee – FAQs
If this is your first time filing H1B, please read H1B Visa Basics – FAQs like Requirements, Quota, LCA, etc.
When does H1B visa 2020 Season start ? What is the start date ?
Update : USCIS announced on March 19th that they will accept H1B 2020 petitions starting from April 1st.
Based on past history, it would be Monday, April 1st, 2019. The rationale is that, USCIS starts accepting applications for the next fiscal year exactly 6 months before the start of the next fiscal year. USCIS fiscal year for 2020 year starts from 1st October 2019, which means they would accept applications for FY 2020 from April 1st, 2019. This will change for the next H1B FY 2021 Season as USCIS has published New H1B Registration Rule, where employers will register much ahead of the April 1st date and go through process to be able to file petitions on April 1st.
What is H1B visa 2020 Quota for Regular and Masters filings ?
H1B quota is listed below. There are no changes to the cap count, USCIS confirmed that in their press release in March 2018. Below are the numbers. For first timers, this quota is also called the H1B Visa Cap. You can read more at What is H1B Cap ? Regular vs Masters quota ?
- H1B Regular Quota : 65,000 visas
- H1B Master’s Quota : 20,000 visas. ( only US Masters eligible)
Also, of the overall 85,000 visa cap, every year 6,800 visas are set aside for the citizens of Singapore and Chile as part of the Free Trade Agreement with them. There were few bills part of Comprehensive Immigration Reform that are not active in Senate that were proposed from Obama administration days to change the cap count to 110,000 and Masters to 25,000, including potential to make H1B cap extend up to 180,000. But nothing has moved and all are dormant. Nothing new has been proposed by the new Trump Administration regarding changing cap count. To get a glimpse of historical cap count changes, you may check H1B visa cap count history from 1990 to 2017
H1B Lottery Predictions for FY 2020 ?
Update : USCIS announced on April 5th that they received enough petitions for Regular cap quota and there would be lottery.
We had H1B lottery for the last 6 consecutive years starting H1B FY 2014. Looking at historical trend of H1B filings, cap reach dates, it is very likely possible that we would have lottery for FY 2020 quota. We have written a detail article on this topic, read H1B Visa 2020 Lottery Predictions, Dates, Results, Analysis.
H1B Visa 2020 Lottery Date ? Results ?
If we look at the H1B lottery, we have three things, one is when the H1B petitions are accepted for the lottery, second is when the actual lottery is done and third is when the H1B lottery results for everyone are out.
- Applications Accepted for H1B Lottery : H1B visa petitions for next fiscal year would be accepted by USCIS from Monday April 1st, 2018 for 5 working days until April 5th, 2018 to be part of the H1B Visa lottery.
- H1B Visa Lottery conducted date : The actual lottery date depends on various factors depending the volume of petitions and USCIS load. It can be anywhere in second week of April. For FY 2019, H1B lottery was conducted on April 11th. Similarly, for FY 2018, the actual H1B Lottery was done on April 11th, 2017 . We can expect anywhere around the same dates like April 11th or April 13th.
- H1B 2020 Lottery Results for Everyone : This is probably the most asked question as many applicants wait in state of uncertainty. USCIS, only informs about actual results for everyone after they completed sending our receipts for accepted petitions. So, technically, you may need to wait for a long time to get the actual results, depending on if you were selected in lottery or not. For FY 2019, USCIS sent our all rejected applications on July 30th, with a timeline given until August 13th. So, you can hear your lottery results anywhere from April second week to August 13th..that’s a long waiting window !
- Update : USCIS released a press note confirming that that returned all H1B petitions that were not picked in lottery and you should get a mail by Aug 29, 2019. So, your final date for lottery result date for FY 2020 is Aug 29, 2019.
How to find H1B visa 2020 Sponsors ?
It can be very hard to find a good employer and convince them to sponsor H1B to work in US with major unknown like H1B Visa lottery. Depending on your situation, you would be in one of the three scenarios, if you are seeking a H1B Sponsor.
- F1 Student in US : You can find an internship or co-op at an employer who can sponsor H1B visa and ask them to sponsor your H1B. You can continue to work on OPT once you graduate as well. You find the list of H1B Sponsoring companies using the tool or H1B Grader – Sponsors Database
- International Professionals : If you are outside of US, it can be tricky with all the latest rules by Trump administration. Your best bet is to find an multi-national company ( MNC) and work through them to sponsor H1B visa. You may have hurdles inside the company with all the internal process, many waiting, etc. But, it is up to you to negotiate and ask them to take a chance. Many try the IT body shop route, where they ask them to file H1B. Rules have changed in the last few years and it is very risky move and can jeopardize your US hopes. Read comments on this H1B Companies Reviews article to get an idea and beware of such consulting companies to avoid fraud.
- Important Note : We, as RedBu2US, DO NOT Provide any H1B sponsorship or guide anyone using professional services or fee. If anyone approaches you by saying our name, it is pure FRAUD…beware !
If you are looking for more details, check out Guide on How to Find H1B Visa Sponsors 2020
What is H1B 2020 Filing Fee ?
H1B visa petition filing involves USCIS fee towards certain things and attorney fees, which varies by company size, and attorney involved for the case. As of FY 2019 season, it can range anywhere from $1,600 USD to $7,400 USD + Attorney Fee. In year 2016, for FY 2018, the H1B base filing fees, increased from $325 to $460. Also, premium processing fee increased from $1,225 to $1,410, effective October 1st, 2018. Below table is a high level summary from FY 2019 quota as of writing, it maybe subject to change as we approach towards the filing date. If any changes, we will update this accordingly. Also, you can Read Summary of H1B Filing Fee – Who pays for What ? .
| H1B Fee – Paid Towards | Amount 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) | $1,410 ( from Oct 1, 2018) |
| Immigration Attorney Fee | Varies from $500 to $3000 |
What is New H1B Registration Rule ?
USCIS and DHS went through 9 Steps of Federal rule making process to change the H1B lottery process and published the final rule on Jan 31st, 2019. In the new registration rule, employers register their potential H1B hires during the H1B registration window in the USCIS registration system. USCIS will conduct lottery on the registrations and inform the selected registrants to file H1B petition on April 1st. In the new process, the order of H1B lottery is changed to select Regular cap quota petitions first and then Masters quota petitions. For more info, read Summary of New H1B Registration Rule
Will the New H1B Registration Rule be applicable for FY 2020 Season ?
Not fully. USCIS is suspending H1B Registration Rule for H1B FY 2020 cap season to design, implement and complete user testing of system and make sure the system is ready. USCIS will formally announce this suspension for FY 2020 on their website. So, for the upcoming H1B Visa FY 2020 season , the current process of accepting H1B Petitions for 5 business days and then conducting lottery from the received petitions will be followed. But, one change to the current process will be done, which is the order of the H1B lottery will be changed, where first regular quota petitions are selected in lottery to fulfil 65,000 petitions cap from entire pool of applications and then master quota petitions are selected in lottery order to fulfil the masters quota cap of 20,000. Read complete info at H1B Lottery Changes for FY 2020 Season
H1B 2020 Processing Timelines – Regular vs Premium ?
You would know about the H1B Lottery result for your H1B Petition filed with USCIS, if you either receive a Receipt Notice from USCIS or a Rejected Package indicating you were not picked in Lottery. The timeline for receiving receipts is different for regular vs premium processing. We have put together all the details in a detail article addressing all of these questions. Read H1B 2020 Lottery Results – Premium vs Regular Processing Timeline
H1B 2020 Case Tracker :
Did you submit or plan to submit H1B petition for FY 2020 ? In general, the wait for H1B receipts, lottery results, and processing is quite frustrating without any status until you receive something from USCIS. You would be curious to know others status…so, to have a general view on the statuses movement for entire community, 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 2020 Case Tracker” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/h1b-visa-tracker/”]
What’s the latest news for H1B Visa 2020 Season ?
Below is the list of latest news by date related to FY 2020 season.
- Aug 15, 2019(Official ) : USCIS released a press note today indicating that they have returned all the petitions that were not selected in H1B 2020 Lottery. They say that, if you do not hear back from USCIS by Aug 29, 2019, you can reach out to them. See below screenshot. You can read the USCIS Press release
- June 7, 2019(Official ) : USCIS released a press note today indicating that they will begin premium processing for all H1B 2020 cap subject petitions starting from June 10th, 2019. Technically, now you can upgrade your H1B petition, if you have filed it as COS or Consular processing. All in all, anyone can upgrade their case to Premium processing. Check the USCIS Official Press Release
- May 17th, 2019(Official ) : USCIS announced that they have completed data entry and will start sending out the reject notices now…Also, they may transfer some cases as well to balance the load. If you see a status change, nothing to worry. Check the USCIS Official Press Release
- April 11th, 2019(Official ) : USCIS announced today evening that they have reached masters cap and also announced completion of H1B lottery for FY 2020. They received a total of 201,011 petitions. Read H1B 2020 Lottery Completed News Summary
- April 5th, 2019( Official ) : USCIS released a press note that H1B 2020 regular cap was filled. Read H1B visa 2020 Regular Cap Filled News. Check out Short Video on H1B 2020 Regular Cap Quota reached.
- April 1st, 2019( Official ) : USCIS Launched H1B Employer Data Hub as part of transparency effort to understand H1B employer’s Information on Approvals and Denials. You can check out How to use H1B Employer Data Hub,
- March 19th, 2019 ( Official ) : USCIS did a press release indicating the start of H1B season from April 1st, and gave out details on Premium Processing that it will be open only for applications filed with COS. Check out all details at H1B 2020 Starts April 1st, Premium Processing Info
- January 2019 ( Official ) : USCIS Publishes Final Rule on H1B Registration on Jan 31, 2019 and gave guidance for FY 2020 season.
- December 2018 ( Official ) : USCIS Publishes a proposed rule in Federal Register to introduce the concept of electronic pre-registrations before filing the actual full H1B petition. Currently, it is in process seeking public comments until Jan 2, 2019. Check out details at H1B Pre-Registration New Proposed Rule – Lottery, Process, Analysis.
- For FY 2020 season there is an increase in Premium processing fee. We do not even know, if USCIS will have premium processing fee for FY 2020 as they have suspended until Feb 2019 for petitions filed in April 2018 under FY 2019 quota. But, something to be aware of.
You can bookmark this page and check this page for updates on H1B FY 2020 season. Also, you can read H1B 2020 Cap Count Updates Page for up to date tracking of this year’s news and other info.
Do you have any questions on next H1B 2020 season ? Join us on WhatsApp H1B 2020 Group, Telegram, Facebook , Slack H1B 2020 and Community Forum to discuss, ask, share.
When would be the best time to request for I140 with employer while on H1b
Hi,
Anyone is still waiting for REF response? In my case 10 october, status is updated as ‘response received…’ in USCIS site, since then no update?
Thanks
Still Waiting!
Yes my RFE response was submitted on 12th Oct 2019. Still no updates 🙁 in the uscis site the status is “Respose received…”
Still Waiting!
Yes my RFE response was submitted on 7th Oct 2019. Still no updates ? in the uscis site the status is “Respose received…”
***HELP***,
There is no SLA for response from USCIS for normal processing. If you need faster response, you need to upgrade to premium processing.
Hi Kumar,
Can the petition be upgraded at this stage?
After the Response is already submitted and its been more than 3 months already?
Thanks in advance
Yes, you can at any point in time.
Thank you Kumar and Others
My rfe is filled on Nov 12th still waiting for decision…
Which rfe did u get?
Not sure what you meant, I submitted the response on 10th October 19 and on 11th its updated as ‘response received…’ ,sine then no update.
Its RFE asking all the information like SOW,MSA,etc..
Hi Kumar,
I have booked visa slot using the ds 160 number without submitting it and now I am getting the checkbox for human trafficking prevention when I am trying to submit ds 160. It was not there for the first ds 160 submission. Is this because of submitting second time ? But I have not used the first ds 160 number anywhere. Could you please suggest can I proceed by checking the checkbox?
It has nothing to do with the submission later. It is a standard compliance check box that you need to agree, it would have come in the previous time as well, if you were to submit. Do NOT worry about it. Just proceed normally as needed.
Thank you so much Kumar for your quick response.
Hi Kumar,
I am with company X on L1b which is valid till Nov 2020. I applied for H1B from Company B (COS) in April 2018 which got approved in jan 16th, 2020.
I have to leave US and go to some other country due to family reason. So, can I leave US and come back on L1-B?
I will get the approval notice in 2-3 days and I have to leave in a day.
I do not want to join Company -B at the moment as My current employer is ready to transfer my H1B as they dont want to loose me.
So, Please advise soon.
I think You can’t because your status already changed to H1 on Jan 16th. I suggest you to consult immigration attorney asap.
Gureet,
Sure, you can leave and come back on L1B, you need valid L1B visa stamp in passport to re-enter.
Hi Kumar,
My H1b case was picked through lottery in May 2018. Below is the timeline of my application.
May 9, 2018 – Case was Received
January 12, 2019 – Request for Additional Evidence was mailed
April 11, 2019 – Response to USCIS request for Evidence was received
August 1, 2019 – Case Was Approved
October 8, 2019 – Document was mailed
October 10, 2019 – Document was returned to USCIS
November 22, 2019 – Name was updated
My company is saying that they have not received any information about my status. Can you please guide me what best possible option I have at this time. My application is not moving forward and there is a possible onsite opportunity for me in very near future.
Can i go through premium processing at this stage?
Please suggest.
Sourabh,
If clearly tells that the package was lost in transit as they updated saying that Document was returned. Ask your attorney to request to resend the approval notice or ask for duplicate of the same. Your option is to work with them and get it forward. It is already approved, no need to go for premium processing.
4th time lucky..Finally I got the approval for my RFE..but I didn’t submit the client letter..what is the percentage of getting through here??
It depends up on to which client you gonna work, lets suppose if you work for the same company which you are already working currently then client letter is not required during the interview process. if you will work for some client then client letter is mandatory.
Which center?? what was the RFE?? Could you please tell when did you get RFE and when you submitted.
You said, you got approval…Stamping depends on various factors, hard to say.
Hi Kumar,
What can be various factors..?
Can you(or anyone) please explain more in detail.
If working for customer and having all documents (CL, SOW, MSA, iternity of services and JD, Onsite Manager Letter etc)
It could be company, position, your fit for the position, SOC Code, LCA, etc.
Hi All,
I got the RFE on 15th Aug (SO & EE) and responded RFE on 10th Oct.
Status was updated ‘Response received’ on 11th October. Finally it was approved today in portal with 9th Jan date (around 1 PM IST because i checked around 9 AM it was not updated). Almost 3 months it’s taken for approval. Waiting for approval notice to see the duration because i submitted SOW valid till Mar 15th only. So please do not loose your hope and everything will be fine.
what other documents(apart from SOW) you have submitted..?
I submitted MSA extension document valid till 2021 but SOW valid till March 15th 2020, apart from that Client letter, Manager Letter, MSA description letter to explain that SOW will be extended yearly basis.
Also JD to explain the proposed work with %.
For more updates, you can join Redbus WhatsApp Group.. Hope you can get your H1 petition as per your documents.
How can I join a Redbus Whatappas Group? Can you please provide link to join?
https://chat.whatsapp.com/BtZsw94kynnENVQ3sBMtTO
Redbus WhatsApp Group
https://chat.whatsapp.com/C15iUkWQEGML3lBTBwx2H0
I got RFE on Nov 25th on Specialty Occupation portion and USCIS received the response from our company on Dec 20th and Awaiting for the final decision.
Is the approval rate increased in Jan 2020 , compared to 2nd half of 2019?
Vijay,
It is hard to say the stats…they are not based on timing, they are based on the strength of the application.
Cheers ! Thanks for sharing positive outcome !
Hi,
I got the RFE on 30th July and responded RFE on 10th October.
Status was updated ‘Response received…’ on 11th october . Since then there is no update from USICS. Please let me know if this is normal ,anybody in same boat?
i was on same boat but just few hours back only it was approved. so pls check it again.
Thanks…checked not yet updated..
It is normal. You can upgrade to premium, if you need faster result.
Hi Kumar,
Currently i am working with Company A and Company B applied h1B transfer in PP and got RFE and B responded couple of days back .
In how many days i can get response and what is probability of approval chances.
Kumar,
I’m in India right now and I have an approved and stamped H1B from Employer A using which I haven’t traveled yet. Currently Employer A has no plans to send me to US but Employer B has shown interest in filing for H1B amendment and extension.
Can Employer B do so even though I haven’t started working on my stamped H1B from Employer A yet?
Thank you!
Well, this is slightly grey area. Usually, if you had stamping done, you can ask Employer B to file cap exempt petition and then after approval, you can work for them….this again depends on USCIS, sometimes, they question status..sometimes, they dont..
Thanks Kumar – I have a I140 from Employer B. Will that help?
If you have I-140 approved, then you are cap exempt, there is no grey area. Yes, it will.
Employer A applied H1B for me FY 2016 cap in India. It was approved on Jul 2016 and also got visa stamping with the valid period from July 2016 to Dec 2017.
I did not travel to US till now.
My Question is :
Can any Employer A apply for H1B now with cap exemption ? If yes, until what date am I eligible to apply.
Yes, if it is the same employer A, it is very likely that the petition is cap exempt. If it is other employer, then it is slightly grey area…
Thank you Kumar
Hi Kumar,
MY lottery was picked up in May and got RFE in September regarding Specialty occupation and right to control. We responded to RFE on 24/Oct/2019 with all the documents. That time we responded with SOW with expiry of 31/Oct/2019 and a draft version of SOW which was set for renewal next month.
Now, i got NOID stating that SOW is expiring on 31/Oct/2019 and there is no proof for the next work available. I am given time till 25/Jan/2020 to respond. My employer has provided me renewed SOW with validity till 31/Oct/2020. We are planning to provide this SOW and MSA agreement in response to that. This document will be enough or something else also i need to provide.
Also, Shall i provide updated Client invitation letter with today’s date or old CIL would suffice. Please help in case i need to provide anything else as well.
Nishant
Nishant,
You should provide the documents they requested, your attorney knows the best on what needs to be submitted as it all varies by RFE and what they are asking. Looking at what you said, it seems ok. Always, updated letters would help…I suggest you talk to your attorney and work with them as they guide.
Thanks a lot Kumar.
Hi Kumar,
My company needs to apply for H1B this April 2020. In reference to the article above, does that mean the new registration process is not implemented this year and will be implemented for applications submitted in April 2021.
Please clarify. Thank you
sahitya,
This article is for previous fiscal year (FY 20). You should read H1B Visa 2021 . Registration is effective for this year.
Hello Kumar,
I hot my h1b approval, i need to change my location and employer asap. How many months is it compulsory to work on h1b with current employer, client and location before transferring h1b?
Or can i just change location and client not the employer?
Is it safe?
Thanks
No compulsion, you can change anytime. Usually, they expect 2 to three payslips for transfer to show that you maintained status. You can do that, if you have an option…it depends on various things, hard to say.
Hi Kumar,
Thank you for your help and support to this wonderful group and looking for your suggestion to my below query…
I got second 221g form and consulate mentioned to submit my passport along with list of companies I worked for in USA from 2011 till date at 5 Visa application or 6 VFSs offices.
Is there a VFS office in Bangalore and do I need to an appointment to submit my documents?
What all documents can be provided to prove the list of companies worked in USA ?( I have worked with only 1 employer via L1B Visa from for 5 years from 2011 to 2016). I have provided all W2 form and experience letter whole filling H1, so really surprised to to get this kind of query. Anyone have got similar query?
Thanks in advance.
Yes, there is a Dropbox location in Bangalore. Check ustraveldocs website. I don’t think you need appointment. Your letter should say that there is no need for appointment.
Well, it could be they overlooked. Just submit all the details you can. Attach your resume or some letter indicating the chronology, so that they can relate it well.
Thank you so much Kumar.
Hi Kumar,
I have submitted ds-160 recently and used the application id for visa appointment but not yet booked the appointment. I have noticed now that I did a mistake in ds-160 by putting usename for facebook and linkedin instead of providing handlers for them. Is this creates a problem for me? and my wife does not have any social media accounts. Should I create one for her as this is a required filed and also please suggest me what should I keep there for my kids since those are mandatory fields.
You should create a New DS-160 and use that for booking appointment. Even, if you have booked appointment, you should create new DS-160 and use the same for stamping. The reason is that, if you use wrong ids, then it is not correct info..you sign at the end saying everything is correct…so, better create another DS-160
Rahul,
Did you hear any about your case. You said you too filed PP the same day as me on Dec 9?
26 Dec: RFE documents received
Guessing few more days for decision….
My Case has been denied by USCIS.
Sad to hear…I am in the same boat..What is the denial reason? can you please give detail of your profile?
1st timer – DD
Sad to hear 🙁 I am waiting for my update since Nov 7th.. still nothing seems to be coming up!
What was the reason for denial? Could you pls share?
Thanks!
Hi Kumar,
I got my H1b visa stamped on April 2018 but unfortunately I couldnt travel to US as my employer was not having any projects for me to work with.
I know I’m eligibile for cap exempt. I came to know that cap exempt is applicable for me till 6 years. After 6 years, I need to go through lottery process again. Is that true ?
How to find employers who can help me to file for cap exempt process ?
Thanks,
PV
PV,
No, the 6 years rule is not applicable. Check Recapture H1B after 6 years Rule
It is the same employers, who filed H1B. You can approach anyone, who have operations in US and need H1B candidates.
Thank you, Kumar 🙂
You’ve made my day.
Cheers,
PV
Cheers !
Hi Kumar,
I have filed my amendment in premium process and I got an RFE . Some how my attorney did not receive the RFE copy. He has been contacting the USCIS Texas center through email, phone and we also raised a request online to resend the copy but there is no proper response from USCIS. As per the website the copy has been sent by USCIS on November 14th.
@Kumar, could you please suggest if there are any other options we can try to get my RFE from USCIS??
Also, What would happen if I don’t get the copy with in 90 days?? Is the case get rejected automatically??
badluck4,
Unfortunately, there are no other options left. Well, hopefully you get it soon. Sometimes, issues can happen with mail and need to chase. Your attorney seems to know what he is doing, so stay positive.
Finally approved.
Applied 5th time in a row
Picked lottery first time 5 years
RFE received by Nov 1st week
RFE responded by Nov End (Regular)
Approved within 15 days (Dec 2nd week)
Did they update your case details after you sent your RFE? My case details hasn’t been updated after my lawyers mailed the RFE response. It’s been 13 days now.
Cheers !
Which service centre it is? And What kind of RFE it is? I have responded on my RFE on NOV 12th still no update 🙁
California, and the usual points (degree/relation to degree/SO)… still waiting for an update…
Hi Rahul,
Did you get reply to you PP request. Since it is holiday season in USA therefore it is taking long. Just wondering it that will have impact on PP or not. Admin please shed some light on this. During holiday season do they stop PP and regular application process momentarily.
Nope… Its PP, so holidays and weekends should not matter… Also they haven’t confirmed that they have received my response….
They updated today that they received my documents… Let’s see how long it takes them for a decision….
Finally, Got my approval..Below are my details,
Regular/non cs
Rfe – jul2
Rfe submitted – sep26
Approval – dec18
Thanks!!
What was RFE for your case?
Which all document you have submit for your RFE?
Cheers !
My RFE response was sent on 22nd Nov and still no response. Last update was done on 9th Dec as “Name was updated”. My application is non PP.
Please share if anyone is in same situation. I am really worried.
RFE response sent on 12/09 under PP, AD, Non-Computer background to California and still waiting….
Case Status still says “Request for Additional Info Sent”
Do not worry, it is a common thing to see that intermittent status called “Name was updated”, stay in touch with your attorney and get updates from them as online system cannot be relied on.
Sharing my visa interview feedback.
Attended on 11/12/2019
Location: chennai
Slot: 10:30 AM
There was huge crowd , around 12:30 PM reached the panel number 17( lady VO)
Question asked:
Is the first time you are applying for the H1b Visa?
Ans- Yes
What is your Highest degree ?
Ans- XX
How much is the LCA salary?
Ans- XX
Where are you travelling to in US?
Ans – City, State
who is your petitioner ?
Ans- XX
who is your client ?
Ans- XX
what is your Roles and Responsibilities ?
Ans – Explained in few lines ( seems she is not concentrating my answer, typing something in system).
are you married ?
Ans – Yes
do you have children ?
Ans – No
And then …Finally the golden words- ” Your visa is approved”
Congratulations Gobi. Did you carried client letter ?
Gobi,
Congratulations ! thanks for sharing.
Hi Kumar,
My H1B was approved October 10th ,valid till June 2022 and still I have not booked for visa interview since I want to go with my family. But it is getting delayed due to passport issues for my family and employer makes me hurry to book appointment for myself first. Is it possible to reschedule visa appointment to add family members in a single slot once I have booked for myself (I have to be in India till Jan 30th to serve notice period for my current employer). Could you please share your thoughts?
Sanjay,
Yes, technically you can do that. If you login to the appointment system, you can add dependents to go along with you. Check the appointment booking system for family or group booking or to add family members. You can call the customer service and seek help as well
Hi Kumar,
I am under premium processing of H1B extension. By 12/20 I will reach 15 days of PP, I haven’t received any update yet. Will it mean the result is negative as its getting delayed? Can approvals be delayed for more than 12 days?
Which service center?
CSC, mailed on 12/06. reached USCIS on 12/09, changed status online on Dec 10 saying we got your application on Dec 9 and started processing your case again. After then no updates.
CTSEmp,
Not necessarily. Add in couple more days or so, sometimes they do not count the mailing dates…stay positive. Talk to your attorney, they would get the details.
Thank you Kumar, will wait till Monday, mean while will check with Global Mobility team too.
Wanted to share good news, case approved today.
Answered RFE on 12/9 – PP, Non AD, Non Computers Background
Congrats!! really great news!
Congratulations.
Which Center..?
Cheers !
You are lucky!!!
RFE response sent on 12/09 as well under PP, AD, Non-Computer background to California and still waiting…. Case Status still says “Request for Additional Info Sent”
Hi Kumar ,
I am in real need of help with my RFE denial.
1) The RFE due date was on November 17th and our attorney submitted the documents through fedex on November 16th. Due to FedEx issue, the document has reached USCIS only on November 19th and USCIS has sent a denial for the same.
2)Now, Attorney is suggesting us to file an MTR with USCIS. On looking through the internet, we found that USCIS does give +3 days as buffer time from RFE due date. if that is true, we are not sure why it was rejected.
3) Now, if we file the MTR(as suggested by Attorney with the FedEx delay apologies letter) will the result/response from USCIS take longer than 6months?
4) few people are saying that, we can file it as a new petition which might be a better option in this case, is that correct? Need your help on this.
5) if we reopen the case and get the case number is it possible to go India for stamping ?
Please do tell me what are the possible way I can try in this case..
Sara,
Well, this is slightly a tricky situation. If you have official USCIS documentation, where they say, they give 3 days, share it here please. Now, the MTR is a long process and you cannot do much during that period and if you get another RFE, you are in trouble….These are very grey areas and you are subject to USCIS consideration, which is up to their discretion. I would rather file a new petition, if your I-94 is valid and get it in premium. Alternatively, if your I-94 is expired, leave the country, get it in consular processing and come back with stamping. There is no right or wrong thing here…some are more risky, some are less… One risks your entire status, one is risk with stamping…so, talk to another second attorney and get opinion and then take it forward based on their feedback.
Hello,
If we reach second week of Premium Processing after responding to RFE, does that mean a negative/rejection?
I heard that approvals happen within 2 or 3 days after answering RFE, is that true?
Thanks.
I have received an update from USCIS after very long time.
I have got an direct approval on my H1B and my petition is valid for 2 years and 9 month.
Thanks everyone for all your guidance.
Dear All,
My H1B Case got approved and I am waiting for the stamping.
Non AD/NP,
RFE Date: Aug 21st
Response submitted on Sept End
Approval Date: Dec 9th
Approved till Dec 2020 (Per my current project end date).
Thanks a lot, Kumar for your community service, I got very good guidance from your website which helped me throughout this process.
CTS Guy,
Good to know about your approval.
Are you from IT/Computer Science background?
CTSEmp,
I am a Post Graduate holder in MCA. your perception seems to be correct, Applicants from non-IT background & Consultant companies are mostly denied.
Look likes, Kumar/Admin is very much busy to capture all data and dialogue from this site from all the people here.
Hi, I am 15 years experienced in IT and this is my 5th extension in USA. My wage level is Level 3, and working for Indian consulting company, received RFE as soon as I upgraded case to premium. Our company responded to RFE early this week and mine is premium as said earlier. Please answer below questions:
1)Generally if its approval will it happen in 2 or 3 days or are there cases who got approval even in between 10-15 days of premium?
2)And are there any guys whose visa is extended for non-IT educational background. Mine is B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering. Can you please tell me the statistics?
Thanks
Irrespective of wage level if you have a non-IT degree and doing IT job, then be ready for worst. My two colleagues with Mechanical Engineering degree wage level 4, got denied.
Hi Kumar and Admins,
I am currently working for an MNC in US, I am planning to switch my job to another top consulting company in US. What is the percentage of my petition getting approved.
Currently i m drawing 88k and the offer is for 110k. And the offer is for one of the top consulting companies in US. Also if the petition is approved does my stamping will have any problem if i m travelling to India as per current trend. Also my current Visa is valid upto Aug 2020. and currently i have another 5 years of grace period.
Check the following things
1. H1B Acceptance rate of consulting firm that you are going to join.
2. Higher the salary, lower the rejection rate. Check if the salary offered to you is on the higher side of wage level in your location (e.g. wage level 3 or higher).
3. Educational qualification is aligned with the job duties.
It’s totally based on your profile like:–
What is you education (degree in stream)
Your Total Experience..?
Skills (you working for) ..?
Type of Consulting Company (which you have offer like EY or KPMG etc)
Hi,
My case got approved.
Had received RFE in Aug.
Hi,
I am also on same boat from Infy, I received RFE and responded waiting for result.Can you please tell timelines of rfe response,result,service center and what kind of RFE ?
Hi,
In my project, all our guys received update within a month of re-submitting the documents.
My RFE was mostly about client requirements and specialty occupation proof.
Congratulations.
What was RFE for your case
Which all document you have submit for your RFE
After RFE how many days it takes for decision
My h1b 2020 finally got approved.
Non AD, No RFE, . without client letter , SOW. was submitted.Case was transferred to other center.
My current status shows “Name Was Updated”. What does this mean? I am worried. This is in response to my RFE.
Which Location..?
Regular or PP..?
When submit the RFE response.
California Service Center
Regular Processing
RFE was submitted on 22nd November.
Hope you will get decision within 2-3 weeks for WAC.
What was RFE..?
Which document submitted..?
Your education(Degree in which stream)..?
RFE was about specialty occupation and employer-employee relationship.
I have submitted SOW, MSA, Client letter, offer letter, supervisor letter, project timeline, project details capturing specialty occupation task.
I have BE in computer science degree.
may be within this month, you will get your decision
Hi Kumar/Others,
i got my H1B Petition approved under RFE(non Ad) , but the petition is given only till feb 2020(Same as last contract date for my project). Since the duration is too small and i cannot travel by Feb 2020, my company attorney’s advised to file for H1B Cap Exempt.
My project will be extended beyond feb 2020 for another 3 years, but the contractual documents are still underway. So while replying to the rfe we had provided ROC and ROB document which specifies, that they will extend the contract. However they considered the contract last date for petition approval.
If we use the same document to apply for H1B Cap exempt what are the chances of approval for a higher period? Also on a high level, what is the trend is H1B CAP Exempt approvals?
Hi Kumar,
I’ve received an RFE on Sept18 and attroney responded to it on November 29 , yet USCIS website is not updated(Like- RFE Response Received) and have same old status(RFE send). Last date was to submit 14th December
is it normal or how ,long it will take to update and get decision for WAC(regular)
One of my colleague got email acknowledgement(before 2 days of cut-off 87 days) after submiting H1B RFE Documents to USCIS
Hi Kumar,
My H1B got stamped now for 8 months and I’m not planning to travel to US for next 4-5 years. After these years do still I can go with cap-exempt? How many years max can H1B be in dormant?
stamping is separately for duration or its(stamping) based on approval..?
Yogi, stamped based on approval…
Thirukumaran ,
This is a grey area, sometimes, they can question the H1B status…But, so far, if you have stamping done, you are very likely considered cap exempt.
Hi Kumar,
In my project 4 of them received RFE for SO & EE. All of them submitted the same documents for RFE response.(same project,CL & same role).
One of my team mate petition was denied after RFE submission, so it’s possible to reject all of the petition from my team..??
What all the RFE documents submitted…?
Client Letter, MSA, SOW , Manager letter and Experience letter
All docs are really powerful.
Then might be due to SOC Code( if given 15-1121) and wage level based on Location or Education Job Duty Alignment not matched.
Please check the actual denial reason through attorney
Wage level 2 and SOC – 15-1121.
Education: B.Tech/IT – 8+ years experience in IT
For which Location..?
WAC- California
then, seems salary will be very low for the WAC Location
Salary 73K
Yes, $73K is very less salary for WAC- California
Sorry for the confusion, my petition was filed at WAC. Proposed work location is Arizona.
then please check with your employer/attorney for denial reason.
but if you go for WAC Location then minimum Level 2 Wage:$46.52 per hour – $96,762 per year.
It is hard to give a generic answer or predict. Every case is different and it varies not by the documentation but also by the profile, job role, SOC code, etc. Talk to your attorney.
Hi All,
My H1B petetion got approved today under PP. Non Ad/ Cse California center.
Thanks to kumar and this community.
Indian Consulting MNC or US product company..?
Skills and wage level..?
How much time does uscis take to send hard copy of the approval notice?
H1b approval email received on 19th November – under PP.
Thanks
Hii Congratulation. Most probably your attorney will get it in 5-7 business days.
Hi Kumar ,
Can I know how to get my original I797 using FOIA ? As my employer is not sharing original
While most employers share…but, technically, they do not have to share the original I-797. Check Sample H1B Approvals , read the text, it says the top part stays with employer….
Hi Kumar ,
Is there a way to get a copy from them ?
Yes, they should in most of the cases. But, there is no requirement as such as it is their petition. Usually they would give a copy to you for visa stamping.
Anyone got the result or RFE whose case was transferred from one center to another In september?
Do we need to apply for premium?
If you need decision faster, then you can go for premium processing.
But december is very late as compared to last few years exp.
Normally people Used to get result by october . This year is extreme late. I am already working on EAD so i dont require early result, i just wanted to change job and location… thats why i wanted result.
Hi ,
My H1 is aprroved but not yet stamped . My employer not yet sharing the original or full PDF Doc . Can I transfer with the approved screen Shot ? Is that enough for MNC ‘s like TCS,Cognizant ?
Hi Kumar,
is it possible to change employer(Consuting-Infy, TCS, CTS etc) only after H1b Approval(without and before stamping) for Different Client, Location and SOC Code(with salary and Title Change)…?
If yes, then what is process and how long it will takes…?
This is a grey area, usually, if no stamping, it may not be cap exempt for transfer. If you had Visa stamping done, then it would have been better…USCIS usually asks, if the candidate ever had H1B status, for which stamping or working in US on H1B is required.
Thanks Kumar
Recently my friend applied for H1b transfer without stamping , he got RFE on SO.
Hi Kumar ,
Just consulted with my attorney regarding cap exempt without stamping They told it is not a problem .you are totally misleading
I have never travelled to US before. I got my fresh H1b Visa stamped on Oct 1st. It is valid till Mar 31 2020. My project opening for which my visa was applied is closed for some reason. I am in the process of identifying new project.
What if I am not able to travel till Mar 31 2020. Will I be able to apply for LCA change and extension post that? If I could apply, will the months lost will be considered within the allowed 6 years work permit. Please let me know.
Balu,
Yes, as you have done H1B stamping, you are eligible for H1B extension and very likely for transfer to other employer too.
Hi Kumar,
I have got my H1B approved but my work permit validity is given from Nov 14, 2019 to Dec 31, 2019. And My employer mentioned that I cannot go for stamping before Dec 31 and hence they want to file a H1B out of cap after Dec 31st. Now my question is, Is there a process to ask USCIS on changing the validity of work permit, so that I can get enough time for stamping and travel ?
what happens if I go for out of cap ? Is it a normal process ?
Regards,
Rao.
Rao,
They need to apply for extension, there is nothing you can do to change validity. It should be fine, check with the company’s attorney. It should be fine to go with cap exempt as it is same employer.
My employer said extension is not possible as the project I am working is no longer available. Employer said they will file OutofCap after January 1st. Given the situation I dont have chance to go for stamping, I am confused whether I really hold a H1B visa (as my passport is never stamped). My employer is telling I now have a valid petition for 6yrs though. I am totally confused..
Rao,
I am in a similar situation as yours.
My Current Status is as below:
“Notice of Representation Was Updated”
Do I need to worry about this?
Hello All,
Finally today my visa got approved after one RFE. I have one question, my company have not sent the client letter to USCIS but then also my petition got approved, but is it that they might ask me the client letter while stamping visa?
Yes, they may ask for the client letter…It is safe to carry the client letter, if you have it along with you…Check with your attorney as well.
How many days it’s taken for your approval after RFE respond…? like when you responded(RFE) and when your petition got approved.??
RFE was responded on 25 September and i got approval on 22 November
Is that California Center(WACXXXXXXX)..?
No, Vermont Centre
Hello – Need some advice from you guys. I have an approved H1B petition from Employer A and an approved I140 from Employer B. I’m planning to travel in a couple of months and I would like to know whether we can apply for H4 EAD for my spouse using the H1B from Employer A and I140 from Employer B. Is it mandatory for the H1B and I140 be from the same employer in order to file for H4 EAD?
Also, I assume we can apply for H4 EAD only after entering the country (since newer I94 number is needed – although my spouse has an earlier I94 from a prior H4) and not from here – am I correct?
Anonymous,
Yes, you can apply. As long as the I-140 was not withdrawn within 180 days after approval, no need to have it from the same employer.
I tried 4 times for h1b and this was the first time it got picked up in the lottery AD. I received 2 RFE’s and got it approved recently. I am planning to go to india and get it stamped and come back.
I heard you will get only one RFE and if you failed to send all the documents, your H1B application will get denied. How in your case got two RFE’s?
1st RFE was for employer-employee relationship and CPT information. 2nd RFE was on specialty occupation related and client letter. As my employer do not provide client letter, i provided email verification.
Cheers ! Finally…
I am in USA and my H1B expiring soon so I started looking for jobs and got 2 jobs with different salary. Both companies are saying that they will file my transfer visa in premium . Also my current company is filling for extension. If all petitions are approved I have to work in one organization and I will work in one which is paying more but can I work in future for other companies considering valid petition for next 3 years.
Yes, you can…At that time, when you want to join, you need to work with their attorney to make that petition effective…
Thank u very much Kumar for reply.
Hi Kumar,
I have got my h1b approved but only for two months and could not get the Visa appointment and it will be expired. Can I go for cap exempt after Visa expired without stamping? Please suggest
Raj2019,
This is a grey area…some had success in the past being cap exempt, some did not make it. So, it is subjective…USCIS can question that candidate never had H1B status. If you had Stamping done, it would have been better for cap exempt transfers.