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.
Hello,
My case got approved and visa kicks in October 1st this year. Does anyone know if it is possible to leave employer A, after getting an offer from employer B, but before transfer is done and before stamping. Can you leave the US in that case and come back after October 1st? How long does it take to get the transfer?
Thanks
It is not recommended to go for transfer before H1B starts or you have H1B status. Usually it is better to work for few days or weeks, get h1B status and then apply for transfer.
@kumar
My case got approved .going for stamping soon.but I don’t any client letter with me currently except sow n MSA doc.do you forsee any hurdles if I go for stamping??
Congrats ! Did you apply 4 times to h1b ?
Tried for last four years from 2016
Congratulations 🙂
Can you tell me what are the specific documents you had to submit for the RFE?
Thanks in advance.
No .it didnt go to RFE.its approved straightway.
Which service center?
VT
Well, in general, client letter has been one of the required documents. If you have an option, you must carry it to be safe. We have heard cases, where they will call the client and verify the employment as well.
My Application has been filed with “Application Consultant 2” job title and wage level 2 for Boston location which is 85K.
Can you please comment if mine will be Denied or Approved.
It is very hard to say, just based on that, it depends on many things.
My case status is showing in “https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do” not in “dhs” website,my case is in RFE now,still don’t know the reason.
Non AD/regular processing.
Who ever looking for case status , try in “egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do”, you might get the status of your case.
4th Timer
Hi Kumar,
I need small info, my employer applied for H1b for FY2020, and I got Rfe for EE and Specialty Occ. My Client is unable to provide a client letter, but have SOW and 1 or 2 Coworker letter.
What are the chances of clearing rfe?
Well, Client letter is pretty much mandatory these days. But, don’t give up hope. Discuss with your attorney on how best you can offset that without client letter by providing something that is equivalent or supports the same…Get in writing that client does not give “Client letter as policy” in email and submit that as well…it may help. Again, discuss with your attorney.
I do have similar issue. My client does not provide any kind of documents such as client letter, SOW etc. They are not even allowing my co-workers to sign on Affidavit. In this case is email conversations between me and my Manager or Lead or someone from my client who states ‘XXXXClient does not provide any proofs’ would help ??? If not what else we can submit to USCIS in order to prove that I’m working with so and so client. My Vendor already mentioned in the letter that ‘Client does not provide any proves’ but there is no use with it.
I have not received any update for lottary pickup or RFE from my employer till now, Do i still need to wait or the game is over ?
🙂
Very likely that you were not picked…plan for backup options.
Thanks Kumar 🙂
Did anyone from Regular/non-AD get their approval in the past couple of weeks.. I do not see much happening around here… just waiting for approval!!
Non-AD/Reg (Non -IT)
Notice date :april 23
Approved : Aug 5th
Congratulations on your approval. May I know your center which processed your request.
It was wac*******but it was moved to diff jurisdiction based on application trafic.post approval notice ,I got to know it was processed in VT.
Congratulation. Have you upgraded to premium processing ?
No.its reg processing
Hi Kumar,
I have received RFE for Employer Information, Specialty occupation and Comletion of higher degree. Is it ok to have 3 items in RFE, or it can be an alarm that they are becoming too suspicious about my application?
Thanks in advance!
Well, it is hard to judge based on that… It is not about suspicion. It just indicates that you need to submit lot of documentation and need to thorough. Work with your attorney and submit relevant information.
Thanks for the reply!
Hi KS,
Did you find out regarding unemployed for about 7 months ,i mean did you replied with Your RFE.let me know
Hi All,
My attorney has filed RFE response 1 week back. Petition is in Premium mode. Still USCIS online status had not changed to “RFE response received”. Wandering when the 15 day clock with start.
Also, has anyone experienced the scenario when USCIS puts the received date after actual delivery of response. If so, what is the delay time approx?
Yes…I got update yesterday and receive approval on 5th Aug
All the best…
Hi approval,
could you please let me know your timeline after RFE response sent to USCIS?
April 20, 2019 – Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, With PP
April 30, 2019 – RFE – Speciality Occupation
July 26, 2019 – RFE responded to USCIS
August 5, 2019 – Approved
Education- MS in Non-technical ( mechanical) from India
Experience- 11 yrs in IT
RFE response taken care by employer and attorney.
@Approved.
Thank you for sharing this.
So what you said is that you also did not see any change in status as “RFE response received” and got Status changed to “Approved” directly on 5-Aug.
Can you share the timeline of RFE response submission and approval?
@ Strange_RFE_Response
Yes….Directly “RFE response received” and ” Approved”..
i’m on the same boat too. Sent my response on 7/31.
@Fingercrossed
Mind sharing if your case is in Premium or not.? My attorney says they have submitted on 1-Aug so it means 15 day clock is started but just the online status is not updated. I tried creating account and checking status but there it is further outdated. It just states “We received your case”.
Mine is premium too. Let’s hope for the best. These days USCIS is unpredictable.
@Fingercrossed
Mine status just got updated at USCIS site that the RFE response was received on 6 August.
@Strange_RFE_Response – This is really strange isn’t it? You sent your documents on 8/1. So, USCIS supposed to receive it by 8/2. Mine got updated too in the website saying that they received on 8/5. We have sent the documents on 7/31.
@Fingercrossed
Ya. Looks like they are taking few days extra to start looking into the case. All the best to both of us
@Fingercrossed.
Any updates for you. I am still waiting.
my case is still the same. Have you received any updates on yours? As days progressed I real feel more tensed.
I am also still waiting. I can relate to the feeling buddy.
any luck on your case? I’m starting to loose hope now. All the cases which were approved by CA center are within 5-6 calendar days after RFE response submission in premium. It’s been 10 days and no update really not sure what’s going on.
any updates on your case Strange??
Do not trust the online status, it can be very misleading. What your attorney gets in mail is the actual info…
Kumar,
have you seen any cases that went beyond 15 days in premium processing after RFE response submission? Today is my 15th day and no update on my case in USCIS portal or from attorney. I’m really worried now.
Well, it can take couple of days more sometimes…Don’t worry.
Hi Kumar,
My petition is still on hold. Attorney sent an email to PP unit and below is what they responded. Does it a positive or negative sign? Tensed and worried at the same time.
“the petition is on adjudicative hold and under review by the Adjudicating Officers supervisor. Once a decision is rendered on the petition you will receive notification”
Well, it could be anything, don’t sweat on something that you cannot control. Not easy as said, but do not be worried. Hope it will be ok.
Hi Kumar,
Thanks for answering my queries in your forums. Here is my long H1b story and how it finally got approved. I have been struggling with this from last 3 years. Hope this helps the community.
This year-2019 – We filed the same application under the same employer and client but, got all the documentation properly. Mine is an EVC model. Here are the timelines:-
03/29/2019 – Case Filled in Premium (New H1B) – Masters Quota
04/11/2019 – USCIS Received Date. (Picked up in Lottery)
05/20/2019 – RFE recieved. (SO, EE Right to Control)
08/1/2019 – Response to RFE sent
08/29/2019 – Case denied saying no right to control (They came up with this reason this year). USCIS put my case on-hold before denying thinking last year appeal was still pending since it doesn’t got updated on their database. My attorney provided appeal decision letter via email. USCIS refunded premium fee since they took more than 15 days.
09/26/2019 – Only MTR filled.
10/15/2019 – Case Reopened.
10/15/2019 – Case Approved.
last year 2018 timelines with the same project:
Case Received – 4/27
RFE- 6/25 – SO, EER, Right to Control
Responded – 9/14
11/19/2018 – H1B Denied – As end client didn’t confirmed the project duration in the client letter.
12/17/2018 – Submitted Appeal + MTR with updated end client letter and updated WO’s
1(Jan)/4/2019 – Case transferred to appeals office
7/13/2019 – Case was dismissed by appeals office on the basis of definitive non-speculative SO and EE relationship.
Fingerscrossed,
Thanks for sharing the details ! Congrats !
Hi, did you finally receive any news?
Hi Kumar,
My application got selected in lottery and I received Case Number from my employer and it looks like XXX19171XXXXX. Does is it men the application received in June/July month? My Question is why it is not followed with working day logic as you mentioned in the post about understading the case number? Any one else is in similar situation?
when did you receive this notice?
Well, I am not sure why….Ask them to share a copy of the receipt notice to verify, if it is yours or not…
Yes I verified!
I could see status like ‘Case Was Received’ on April 11 in USCIS website
Well, dont worry about the format of the number…I do not know why…Work with your attorney for physical copies and go by that.
Mine petition number also does not match the date logic mentioned.
Hi Kumar ,
Still how much % v can expect h1b approval ?? Still u feel der is a chance ? Feeling very bad . Last 3 to 4years h1b lottery not picked . This fiscal year my lottery got picked but still not yet got approval . What is the timeline for approval notice ?? Kindly suggest me . ??
Upgrade to Premium Processing if you can. There is no timeline for waiting and it can take a few good months. I upgraded my case and got the approval within a few days. I would have even paid for the PP myself had my company not paid.
Approval can take anywhere from few weeks to few months. Dont worry, it will take time. You can ask your employer to upgrade to premium, if you want to receive decision soon.
Hi Kumar
Mine was out of cap regular processing and was filed on April 26th with WAC. It is still not approved. When I check processing times on uscis, it fluctuates (normally 2 days forward everyday i.e. was showing receipt date for enquiry as Dec 28, 2019, but around a week back, it came to Nov 23, 2019)
I asked employer for upgrade to premium, but was told to wait. Any pointers as how long should I wait more? It has been 4 months today from the date of filing and 3.5 months from the date of receipt.
Thanks
Correction
(normally 2 days forward everyday i.e. was showing receipt date for enquiry as Dec 28, 2018, but around a week back, it came to Nov 23, 2018)
Well, unfortunately you have to wait, if your employer asked you to do so….It can take time…Nothing you can do. All you can do is ask your employer to upgrade it soon as you are reaching the October 1st date..
Hi Kumar ,
Hope you are doing good!
Currently I’m on H4 status and staying in US. I’ve been trying H1 from past 2years(through US consultancy) but no luck for H1. Also I’m working for MNC India company but currently on leave for long time. So I am planning to do Masters in US. one question, If my status changed to F1, can I apply for 2021 H1 through MNC? or its better to wait for one more year for 2021 filing. Please suggest and let me know possibilities If I can do both parallelly. Thank you!
Yes, you can apply for it. Well, it is hard to say…Also, you need to be clear that Studying MS is not going to get you H1B, still you need to go through H1B lottery, just that you may have some more chances… Try to find a cap exempt employer or look at options to get H4 EAD, if your spouse’s H1B company has started green card process
Thanks Kumar!
Hi Kumar,
My petition got selected in the lottery this year. I just noticed in my I-129 form the “Legal name” is missing in the 1st field of Part 1 section but proper address and name is filled in field 3 of part 1. Do you think it gonna cause any issue in light of the new rule that USCIS announced?
https://www.uscis.gov/news/alerts/uscis-updates-rejection-criteria-form-i-129
It does not apply to you as you are not filing it as Individual. It is filed by Company, don’t worry.
Are we running behind the schedule this year? USCIS has not yet communicated regarding the return of packages of not-picked petitions. And I haven’t heard approval from many people whom I know.. not sure whats happening.. eaaaagerly waiting!! 🙂
Yes, they seem to be running behind…In the past years, they updated by July 30th maximum, this year they are delayed further.
My H1B is picked in lottery and I got receipt notice on May 6th and after that no progress on my petition. Any one got approvals/RFE/Denials for Non-Adv/Regular ?
Non-Advance/Regular
California Service Centre
California will always issue RFE in OCT for Non AD. I am also in the same boat. No updates so far.
They vl 1ly Senf RFE ?? No chance for approval hereafter??
Non-Ad/Regular, Same here, waiting and waiting… , could not explore other options. I think they will drag this till Sept or Oct. Knowingly they want to create uncertainty for employees and employers.
Hi,
I need advice regarding I140 and H1B processing in parallel. My client had initiated my permanent residency processing last year. Recently my PERM has been approved and my client is planning to submit I140 soon. Along with this my employer has filed H1B this year and it has been picked in lottery and I’m awaiting results of the same.
Is it advisable to go ahead with the I140 filing or should I wait for the results of my H1B filing? If they can proceed in parallel, then would there be any complications during H1B interview? I mean H1B from employer and I140 from the client for whom I’m going to work under the H1B.
I clearly remember that we have to mention whether anyone has filed immigrant petition in my favor. In case my I140 is filed, I’ll have to mention yes correct?
Also, My employer does not know about the permanent residency filing but my client is aware of both.
What do you guys think?
They can be done in parallel, no need to wait. Yes, you will need to mention that. H1B is a dual intent visa, so there should be no issues.
Thank you Kumar!
Hi Kumar
My H1B is approved but COS is denied (because of day 1 extended CPT). We received a decision letter today (July 29th) and the official letter date is July 23rd.
Basically USCIS has considered this extended CPT not valid and so denied COS.
Aug 9th memo is on hold and unlawful presence now start to accumulate from the decision date ( July 23rd in my case). If I understand correctly
I’ll leave my job tomorrow but question is my current i20 is still valid till Oct 19th, 2019.
I book an appointment for H1B stamping on Sept 21st, 2019.
So can I stay in the country legally till Sept 20th?
I won’t be working and attending school to maintain my i20 and SEVIS.
Of course my F1 original stamp is expired and after completion of my STEM OPT, I joined day 1 CPT.
Can you please help ?
Can I stay till my visa interview date (without any active CPT, just as a F1 full time student)?
Well, having I-20 does not mean anything, you need maintain your F1 status. I would suggest you talk to your DSO and then take an informed decision. H1B is one aspect and your F1 is another thing. I am not sure, what kind of school you are enrolled in and if they are accredited, etc. That’s why I suggest you talk to DSO or an attorney and then make a decision.
Thank you, Kumar.
I go to Harrisburg University for my 2nd masters. It’s accredited and my CPT is approved by DSO and is valid till Oct 18th, 2019.
USCIS isn’t questioning on validity of my school, USCIS said because I’ve used my CPT more than allowable time (more than 12 months at a same education level), they considered this invalid.
So, my CPT is approved by DSO and still valid, but USCIS has considered not valid and I’d assume there’s no formal collaboration between SEVP/ICE and USCIS,
I’m in dilemma and not sure what to do. If I must, I’m ready to leave the job, get a stamp and come back on Oct I st , but I don’t know should i also leave the country as well?
Well, I would suggest talk to an attorney and take a decision.
My H1B got approved. Can I change employer before October 1st which is my H1B start date?
Well, it is a grey area…USCIS may question that you never had H1B status. It is usually recommended to do it after Oct 1st…even better, if you have a pay stub or two after Oct 1st.
Wait. Thats mean Sir we dont needed to wait 3 months to change our job even if we applied first time and get approved from USCIS for h1b?
I am not sure what you mean…as I said, it is recommended to do it after Oct 1st.
Sorry about that , I was trying to confirm if able to change job after oct1st , I heard before needed to work at least 3 months on same company once get approved from h1b .
It is recommended to work for few months, to get H1B related status and paystubs…But, you can transfer earlier too, but as always better safe than sorry.
We are closed to August. I do not have any information if I was pick and selected or approved in the lottery. We payed for premium processing and no answer. Do I still have a chance?
Probably no chance…You should have at least got a receipt by now…
No receipt, nothing
Will it be a problem changing position within the same company at different location and higher pay before H1B start date(Oct 1st, 2019)? has anyone here done that? please help
Hi Kumar,
I got selected in lottery but approval is still pending. Currently I am getting a good job offer from another reputed company in India. If I join new company can I transfer my H1B to new company ?
Please suggest.
Not recommended as your H1B is not yet approved. You should wait for approval, get it stamped and then consider transferring…Sometimes, USCIS questions that you never had H1B status…then transfer may not work…this is slightly grey area…
Hi Kumar ,
What s the timeline to get approval notice ??
It can vary from few weeks to few months…no SLA for USCIS unless it is premium processing.
My Petition got approved ,
Non-AD , Regular
All the best for everyone
at which date you got your approval of your H1b
Could you please let me know the date you were informed that lottery got picked up? mine is May 1st but still waiting for approval..
I was informed about the lottery in mid June,
They have already started processing for non-Ad /Regular
So I think you will get it in coming days, hope for the best 🙂
Thank you so much for your quick reply ?
Which Company do you work for in India?
Your application was adjudicated by which service center and if WAC what is your day of filing as per your receipt number?
Hi All,
Currently i am working in L1B visa for the past 4 years and have an approved I-140. My employer filed H-1B 2020 cap petition in consular processing with 3 year limit(till 2022) and got selected in lottery. I got an RFE stating that H-1B was filed for more than 6 year limit(combined with L1b). Approved I-140 petition was included in the original petition.
Have you ever faced this type of RFE and what are the chances of approval?
H1B period = 6 years that includes your L1 stay
You have to file H1 for 2 years
Max period – L1 stay + H1 stay
Since you have 140 you should get three years but I am confused if you have to file for 2 years and then for 3 years
Thank you. Our Lawyers responded with amended request for 1.5 years and USCIS approved the petition.
Has anyone started to get rejection notice
Yes, we also posted a sample shared by user, check the blog home page, we have article on this.
Any latest updates on approvals or denials for speciality occupation h1b RFE / PP…!
Hello, mine case got picked in lottery. The attorney has shared with me the receipt notice, however when I use the petition number to search on USCIS site, it shows “My Case Status does not recognize the receipt number entered. “. I tried to call customer care however they did not share details to me (they can share the case status only with the attorney).
I am worried as to what is the exact issue and there is no help from the attorney end.
create an account with USCIS and track it. You might see a more up to date update of your case there.
Thanks, but I already have an account on USCIS but I am not able to add the petition number as it is not searchable on the USCIS site. Is there any other way to add the same to my account?
Create an account here and add your case number – https://myaccount.uscis.gov/
It could be the online system is not fully updated. As long as you have the copy of the receipt, you should be fine. You can try creating an account on https://myaccount.uscis.dhs.gov/ and try once, sometimes, it works there.
Thanks everyone for your responses. I am able to add the case in my account.
Thanks again for helping.
Hi Admin,
Non-AD/Regularprocessing/Consular Processing
Still i haven’t received any update on my case. My employer has requested me to wait for two more weeks.
I think no more hopes this year.
Any idea, when we will be received rejection receipt/return package?
Hi everyone,
Same here and my employer is asking me to wait for rejection notice before exploring other options. This was my second attempt of H1B lottery, but I haven’t heard anything as of now.
I am considering H4 visa. However, I feel there are some caveats to that
I am currently on OPT ending in May 2020, I am planning to apply for H4 visa and eventually H4 EAD. Since cap gap is only for F1 students, if my company files for H1B again while I’m in H4 (EAD), and it gets approved. In that case I am not eligible for CaP GAp correct, so does that mean I go out of status between June to September 2020?
Thank you in advance. I highly appreciate your advice/ opinions.
Read H4 Sample Reject Notice and Timelines for more info
H1B Regular Waiting for Approval/RFE. Is it normal wait for getting approval so long.
No it’s not normal. But what can we do other than wait?
It is taking longer for H1B and OPT these days.
Yes, very normal.
Yes it is normal. I was waiting for almost three months until I finally decided to go for premium processing. I got my approval within 4 days. It is worth it, I suggest you consider
can you please tell your case? non AD/RP?
Application processing times compared to previous year , will we get faster response this year compare to last year as there is new regulations passed on last year or is it will be same as last year . Mine is H1 B , Regular and waiting for next update after application received . Any one start receiving approvals/RFE’s ?
It is very hard to say, I would think it will take longer with more and more scrutiny…Everything depends on the case and center where it is processed…
Vermont Service Center is better than California. I have seen for two of my colleagues getting approval in June from Vermont. But for one another person, his application is still pending with California Service Center.
More delay means RFE?
Could be. Me and my friend are mapped to California center and did not get any update yet. Is it that a lot of AD are mapped to Vermont?
Still waiting to hit approval at least by this July-end as the Stamping wait times in India are jumping around 2 months – To travel smooth by October-end or so.
Cheers!
Not necessarily RFE, if longer…It all depends on the load and the case merits.
Hello all,
Today my H1B case status changed to the following:
*** My case Transferred And New Office Has Jurisdiction ***
I didn’t get the receipt yet, just trying to be on top of it. What does this status mean? Am I supposed to do anything after I get the receipt?
Thanks!
am in same boat
How did you know that your case transferred.. when you are unaware about receipt no# also. Does this mean your case picked in lottery. Please let me know..
I know my receipt number. I was saying about the new receipt of this transferring action. They mentioned to follow instructions given in the receipt.
Any update on this? Does anyone know anything about this transferring?
Thanks.
Hi Everyone,
I’m in a tricky situation. I have been working with the same company with my CPT first and then OPT for 1.5 years. Got lucky in the lottery this year, did not get an RFE and my case was approved a couple weeks ago. My OPT ends September 30 2019, and H1B starts October 1 2019 with my current company.
The problem is, my entire business unit (100 people) is going out of business and we are all being laid off. If I can find a new job, is there a way to transfer my H1B? Do you have any recommendations?
Usually, the recommended option is to do transfer after October 1st. One thing you could consider doing is to go to your home country and get your H1B stamping, before the unit closes down fully, so that you can use that for H1B transfer in future as cap exempt. Discuss with your company and their attorney, if this option is possible and they can support you…
Hi Kumar,
Can i apply H4-EAD? while H4 extension in process (Biometric done on 06/24)?
Where is ‘OMG no more wait’ ? I am eagerly waiting for his approval.
Thank you ??
Hi Kumar,
I’m currently doing Day-1 CPT and my H1 got picked for which I got an RFE. I was expecting an RFE relating to my CPT, instead I got an RFE in which USCIS has requested the below documents.
Copies of all I-20’s, Copies of EAD card and all pay statements covering my work in US.
From the start of my Stem OPT, I’ve been working with the same employer and i don’t have any issues with providing the pay stubs.
But the issue is with my OPT in which i worked for only 5 months and I was unemployed for about 7 months. How can we handle this scenario since I do not have any paychecks for the 7 months I was unemployed? Have you seen any cases similar to this and can you suggest anything related which will be helpful for me.
Anything that has Day 1 CPT is a tricky situation, I suggest you work with a qualified attorney..
Hi Kumar,
Received RFE.. asked for employer and employee relationship and In house employment.
I am working for a very good American company as a full time employee.My attorney has answered RFE last month.
This week I got denial notice saying “You are in the business of locating persons with computer related backgrounds and
placing these individuals at positions with firms that use computer trained personnel to complete their projects” which is
totally incorrect because we told them there are no end-clients since work is done in house.My question is can we file and appeal or MTR
since we have everything with proof? And what is the process and how long it takes to know the result?
Saik,
unfortunately, the in-house project thing has been abused by many, so some real genuine cases also get impacted…you may try for MTR, but you will lose time and need to wait. There is no estimated fixed time, it may take anywhere from few months to year or so as well… If there is an option to file a new petition, just go with it…Discuss with your attorney on the best way to approach.
Hi Kumar , my lottery got picked up may month .. but still I have not got approval notice . Is that my receipt got rejected ?? Or else wat is the timeline to get approval notice ?I am very much worried nearly waiting for 6 years for h1b .
Please help me
Usually regular application will take time to get approved. I would say, you have wait till August. If not, talk to your employer and ask them to upgrade it to Premius Processing.
Hi how to check whether it’s regular or pp??
You can check with your employer. Anyways If your application is upgraded to PP then you would have received the decision notice already. I think yours is in regular category.
Hello ,
Just im wondering sorry if bother you ,
Youre waiting for 6 years for h1b ? What is the reason for to insist on this visa from your previous status to change ? I dont know because how important that visa thats why im asking sorry again 🙂
It can take few weeks to few months….so, it is quite normal. I understand your anxiety, if you are really keen you can ask your employer to upgrade to premium processing, then you will get the decision in 15 days.
Approval notice for regular has started flowing in . Got my approval yesterday .
What is your receipt number? Please share
@Admin, @Kumar,
Currently i am working in L1B visa for the past 4 years and have an approved I-140. My employer filed H-1B 2020 cap petition in consular processing with 3 year limit(till 2022). I got an RFE stating that H-1B was filed for more than 6 year limit(combined with L1b). Approved I-140 petition was included in the original petition.
Have anyone encountered this type of RFE and what are the chances of approval?
http://immigrationgirl.com/return-of-fy-2020-petitions-begins-for-unlucky-h-1b-visa-applicants/
PACKAGES STARTED BEING RETURNED.
Status updated to “Document was mailed” can you please let me know what it means.
New H1B regular. Non-adv
Hi Vasu,
I got the same status update. Not sure what exactly this is.. I am still waiting for the confirmation from my attorney. Do reply in case you find anything.
Cheers!
Hi Vasu,
Did you receive any update yet?
System sometimes give generic messages, it could be any document…usually, it can be approval..but, again, you need to wait for the actual document to get confirmation.
Hi Vasu,
Did you hear anything about this status?
Nothing yet. Just waiting
Hi Vasu,
Did you receive any updates?
Please update the status.
Thanks.
Hi guys,
Did you get any update on this status?
I am sailing in the same boat.
Hi FreshH1B / Vasu / 3rd timer,
Do you guys got an update regarding what document was mailed?
Is it Approval notice?? Please update here
Hi Kumar,
I was initially on H1B Cap Exempt, and got a stamp last year valid until 2021. However I interviewed this year and got a company to sponsor a new h1 under regular cap, and luckily it got picked and approved under consular processing. I have joined the company from its Canada office temporarily until October and then will move to the states. My question is will I require to get a new stamp ? Or I just need the approval notice ?
Just to be clear I left the old company which was a non profit organization and stepped out of USA. So I’m assuming my old Cap exempt H1B was revoked.
Well, this is kind of tricky as you had H1B stamping using a cap exempt University or non profit research entity. In general, if it was a normal H1B transfer, you could technically use that..But, your case is different and I am not sure, if you can use your old approval for this. I would suggest, you discuss with your employer and attorney and clarify…If needed go for stamping.
If your H1B stamp in passport is still valid, you can use that to enter US by showing the new approval notice and job details. This is technically a transfer. Read H1B stamping after Transfer
Thanks @Kumar.
Yes my stamp is still valid till 2021, although not sure if I can use it since technically my old employer has revoked the H1B Petition and was a non profit organization so … a bit confused. Lawyer on vacation so ..
Well, going for stamping is not going to hurt anyways, if it is really confusing…Wait for your attorney to come back from vacation and then take a call.
Hi @Kumar ,
Looks like I don’t need to get stamping. Just the approval letter is fine confirmed with the lawyer. Thanks for your help and advice
Great. Do share with community, regarding questions or any issues at Port of entry. It will help.
Definitely will share my experience. I have one last question if I need to transfer to another company who’s willing to do the transfer can I do it before October 1 ? Now that I don’t have to go for stamping and already have a valid stamp ? Will the transfer be cap exempt ?
It is recommended to do it after October 1st. USCIS has been questioning that the candidate never had H1B status..So, to be safe do the transfer after October 1st.
Hi Kumar,
It was told on May 1st my case was picked up in the lottery but yet to receive approval notice. I have tried for H1b in 2015 as well but did pick in the lottery. Should we inform that in the H1b application? I did not see such option in the questionnaire document provided by my attorney..
No need. Approval notice can take time. Ask them to share the receipt notice, so that you can track the case online at USCIS website.
can any one pls let me know how many days does USCIS give to respond the rfe to the petitioner.
Your RFE will say the date that you need to respond by. Usually it is 12 weeks, if it does not indicate the date. We have seen users get about 90 to 95 days.
H1B approved.
Changed RP to PP on June 25th. Received approval email on June 29th.
AD/COS
Thank you, Kumar for all the information provided through out this process.
Cheers !
Hi sir Wen is ur lottery got picked up ??
OMG no more wait
I don’t know when it got picked up in the lottery. But, the Notice Date was 05/09/2019.
Hi Kumar/All
I received the following update from USCIS
‘Document was mailed’
We mailed your document for your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
Any idea what this status refers too?
My petition is Non AD/CA/CoS
Looking forward to your reply. Thank you!
https://redbus2us.com/uscis-online-h1b-case-status-meaning-detailed-screenshots-changes-flow/
Hope this helps. Did u receive any RFE? If yes on what category?
There is nothing related to my status – ‘‘Document was mailed’ in the attached link. Thanks anyway.
I didn’t received any RFE and a bit curious if this status refers to the RFE or a Approval.
It is a generic message from USCIS. Based on some experiences in the past, it could be approval notice. So, check with your attorney…Also, update the community once you hear back from attorney…
Did u receive any update s. Please update the status
I am still waiting to hear from the attorney. Not sure how long it takes to deliver the package the Package from USCIS.
Holding my nerves.
Did you receive any update yet?
Hi FreshH1b,
Any update on your case yet? plz post it here what document that you have received? Approval/RFE?
Hi , anyone got approval letter ? Who’s lottery selected on May month … Waiting fingers crossed plz reply me … After long wait my lottery picked but waiting for approval ..
Same case here. Got lottery update on May 17th. Still waiting for approval.
Hi. could you plz let us know your current status? Picked up on May 1st but still did not get any notification..
Hi ,
I have a doubt , can someone help me with it . If my case is not picked in lottery, will I get my rejection notice in I797C form? “Lottery rejection ”
In what cases we will receive i797C form with our name on it?
When I looked into the below link it says just “Rejection” doesn’t say whether it is lottery rejection or approval rejection .
https://www.uscis.gov/forms/form-i-797c-notice-action
Please advise
Thank you !!
No, you will NOT get a I-797C form for lottery rejection. It is a generic letter. Check H1B Sample Reject Notices from past.
Thank you for your response
Hello Everyone,
Anyone has received rejection letter?
Your feedback is appreciated.
Regards
AHE
So far, no one has reported it…we still have time, We see them more in mid july.
Case Updates:
1st time Applicant
Regular Processing
Advanced Degree
Case Approved: June 25th 2019
Yet to receive approval notice!
Center?
Hey,Congratulations… Receipt no. Received on??
Hey , congratulations… When did you receive receipt???
AD/RP Visa approved on June 21st and online status updated on 25th June.
The lawyers say they will keep the hard copy of approval notice and if I or my employer wants the same we should request for a soft copy from the lawyers.
Is that okay? How can lawyers keep the original hard copy? What if I am required to present the original copy in my H1B visa interview?
If your petition is COS, then they can keep the original notice and give you the I-94. You can read the actual text on Sample Approval notice – H1B, where it tells the same. But, most of the employers give the original for stamping purposes, you can request them through your employer. If not possible, carry a color copy, it should be fine. Consular officer can access your approval notice anyways through PIMS system.
Thank you.
Regular processing here, got selected April 11 and have not heard anything since then. 2.5 months…
Status still shows as “Case Received”. Is this normal?
Same situation. Would to love to know that!
Status can be misleading on the USCIS website. My status still shows Case Received, however,my attorney sent my approval notice received notification a week back along with my i797. Hang in there and do not lose hope …Good luck 🙂
Very normal. Some have waited for 6 months and still they see the same.
Hi Kumar,
At this stage, is upgrading to premium processing available for everyone?
Yes, since June 10th.
Same here .. No updates yet.
When should I go to consulate and get the visa stamp?
Hi all,
AD/PP Here, non-stem. OPT ends September 31 and H1B start date is October 1st. I recently received my original Approval document, and a copy of my application too. Is there anything left to be done other than going back to my country to get my visa stamped in my passport?
I know H1B starts October 1st, do I have to get my visa before this date? Or can I wait a couple more months? Ideally I want to go back there in December and stay longer for Christmas. Is this possible?
If it is a COS, you don’t ‘have’ to get stamping. You may get stamping upto 90 days before your visa start date, according to the USCIS website.
On a minor note: There are 30 days in the month of September.
Hi Kumar,
Is there any chance for receipt notice/ lottery result First timer applicant and on h4… 🙁
Please advise..
Very low or probably none, unless it is a exception.
You can get it anytime, if your application was applied as Change of Status, you can do it, when you leave US in December. You need it to re-enter US on H1B.
If your application was filed as consular processing, then you need to get it stamped to work in US before that and enter on H1B.
Thank you Kumar for your quick response, I have applied for h1b as first as currently on h4. Not sure if picked up in lottery still required and my attorney applied it as consular processing or change of status… She is aware that I m in USA on h4, plus will go for stamping in USA itself..
Please clarify.
You need to clarify that part, ask them if it was filed as COS or consular processing. They being aware does not mean that they should file it as COS. Check to confirm.