Most of the H1B Visa Applicants, who are picked in H1B Visa registration Lottery process would file their H1B petition with USCIS. Once USCIS receives a H1B petition, they would issue a Case Receipt number that can be used to track the status of H1B petition. Usually, employer or attorney would share this number with an applicant. If you are new to the process, it can be puzzling to look at the number and guess what each of that means. In this article, we will cover what the H1B Case Number given by USCIS would mean by looking at each of the letters in the H1B Case Number.
What is the H1B Visa Case Number ?
USCIS would assign a case receipt number for every H1B petition filed with them. It is a 13 digit number and typically starts with three alphabets like WAC or EAC based on where it was filed. Each set of characters mean something in the case number.
We should break down the H1B Case Number into sets of characters grouped like below:
- XXX—XX—XXX—XXXXX
- EAC—20—128—50345 ( example for FY 2021 Case)
Now, lets look at each of the groups of characters.
First 3 Letters of H1B Case Number EAC, WAC, LIN
First three digits indicate where the H1B petition was filed.
- EAC – Vermont Service Center (old name: Eastern Adjudication Center).
- WAC – California Service Center (old name: Western Adjudication Center).
- LIN – Nebraska Service Center (LIN refers to Lincoln, Nebraska).
- SRC – Texas Service Center (old name: Southern Regional Center).
Next 2 Letters of H1B Case Number – Year
Next two digits indicate the year when it was filed. NOT the fiscal year. Do not try to read something that says like WAC2017XXXX to think it is related to year 2017, you should only look a the two letters after the first 3 characters.
- For H1B Visa 2021, it would be 20
- For H1B Visa 2020, it would be 19
Next 3 Letters of H1B Case Number – Computer Working Day
Next three digits indicate the computer working day of the USCIS fiscal year that starts from October 1st. It indicates the computer work day, does not include weekends and holidays. USCIS computers do not work on weekends and USA National holidays :-). October 1st is when the fiscal year starts for USCIS. If your H1B was filed on October 1st, it would be 001. It is a little tricky with this number, computer work day indicates only working days and not weekends. For example, if it is like October 20th, it would be 16th working day or something like that…For April 12th, it would be 134 as the weekends and federal holidays are taken out. You can use wolframalpha website to ask the exact week day after Oct 1st, you will need to add federal holidays to that number.
- For April 8th, it would be 128.
Next 5 Letters of H1B Case Number – Actual Case Number
Next five digits is the actual case number. Most of the times, it would start with a 5 for H1B Cases that use form I-129. It is also is the number that was assigned to on a particular day. There is no guarantee that it would start with 0001.
- Sample number would be 51244
Check out detail article: Understanding your H1B Visa Case number
Check H1B Case Status on USCIS.gov
After you receive your H1B Visa Receipt case number, all you would have to do is to track the status on USCIS website. Read How to Check H1B Petition Status on USCIS website.
Premium Processing for H1B :
If you were to file H1B visa petition under premium processing, you would have received the case number and a confirmation email that your petition was received by USCIS and it is under processing. Usually your attorney or your employer would get that information. Once your case is approved, similar email with approval status would be updated via email. A hard copy would be emailed after the emails to the address specified in petition.
Regular Processing for H1B :
If you were to file your H1B visa petition under regular processing, you would not necessarily get an email from USCIS, rather you would get a hard copy receipt mailed to your employer or attorney. Also, decision information would be mailed to your attorney or employer after decision.
You can read Steps after H1B Lottery – Flow Chart to know more on next steps
Did I miss anything ? Any other thoughts to add ?
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AhDhcrPr9JWedEdOU2xMRG1QdTdnaGdyN0JWalhwX1E&om=true&richtext=false#gid=0
please fill this out.. track the results..
Can someone mention the current trending receipt number for Vermont?
any idea how much hey are processing each day ?
I got my approval today morning, EAC 1313250***
Were you AD/PP or RQ/PP? Thanks..
RQ/PP
Anyone got receipt notice in normal processing(not AD)?
Guys my employer had forwarded me the scanned copy of I797. Let me know If you have any questions. This forum has been extremely helpful. Thanks a lot to all active contributors and I wish everyone the very best.
How long it took USCIS to send I797 after approval? Congrats and all the best!
hi,
Today morning 8:00AM my status on the USCIS website was showing like this:
Your Case Status: Initial Review
On April 18, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. A notice was sent on this date explaining the specific reason for stopping the premium processing of your case. This notice will contain detailed information on further action required by you. Your premium processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case
But my employer didnt get any email/fax. When I asked him i was told that it may be system glitch
But after 2 hrs it got approved.
until today noon my status was RFE and now it shows under Initial Review with clocked stooped
Hi.
I’m in RFE but I haven’t received anything by fax/email/mail.
How long did it last for you?
Thanks!!
REFE for few Hrs may be
Jonathan,
Is your status still in RFE? My status changed to RFE yesterday but my lawyers havenot got any update about it. Do you have any idea about it?
My case status is still in acceptance. I just checked the numbers before and after mine and all were in decision stage and just mine is still in acceptance and not even in initial review. Do I need to be worried? whats going one here? any one in the same situation?
Anyone still in acceptance stage?
Mine is AD/PP
TIA
Does it moved any where between RFE or Clocked stooped or it was direct approved
Well,
Status shows just acceptance. No clock stopped or not even in initial review. All the before and after my number has decision in status.
Any idea what’s going on?
Mine is at the same Status as well. Be patient.
My stats is also same .. Acceptance !!
Batter then RFE
same case here, mine is under acceptance since April 10th and all applications before mine and after are approved, dunno what`s going on seriously…..
Does this mean my H1B is approved?
On April 17, 2013, this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice. Please follow any instructions on the notice. If you move before you receive the notice, call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
I cant believe, Its approved for me too. Good luck to every one else
yes
Is visa stamping compulsory for eveyone?
Those who got visa approved with COS from other visas (H4, L1, L2) doesn’t need stamping for working unless you go out of the country.
Thanks LM.
Hi All,
My petition got approved today morning. Below is my status
On April 18, 2013, this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice. Please follow any instructions on the notice. If you move before you receive the notice, call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
During this step the formal decision (approved/denied) is written and the decision notice is mailed and/or emailed to the applicant/petitioner. You can use our current processing time to gauge when you can expect to receive a final decision.
what do they mean by final decision? – Stamping?
Mine is a H4- H1 with COS.
VSC/PP/Reg Quota, Acceptance date – 10th April
Receipt number – EAC 1313250***
Congrats to all who got approval and receipt. And all the best to all!!
Thanks a lot to people behind this site.. This was very helpful all the way..
God.. Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!
Visa Stamping is under jurisdiction of Department of State. As far as USCIS (Under Department of Homeland Security) is concerned their part is done. Only the first paragraph of the Case Status page is specific to you, the second paragraph is a general description of this step. Relax, USCIS has approved your petition you will get the relevant documents in a few days.
Thanks for the explanation Snowy!
Hi…Congrats….
Was it in premium processing clocked status anytime between???
Congratulations…
My petition receipt number is – EAC 13132*****. It changed to status- Initial Review – premium processing clock stopped yesterday around 4 p.m.
was yours the same case?
For me, my application was Regular Quota/Premium Procession/WAC.
On Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:00 (PDT) Premium Processing clock stopped on my I129.
On Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:45 (PDT) I129 was approved.
I know the exact time since I registered for email updates on the USCIS website.
I guess if your petition goes into RFE and then the clock is stopped then you have an RFE notice issued, but if directly goes into clock stopped then they have probably approved your petition and are processing the paper work before uploading the final status on the website.
Thanks for such a positive reply….
Congrats to you….Keeping fingers crossed!!!!
When I got the clock stopped email I got really worried. So, I checked 5 consecutive petitions above and below my petition number, then I checked 2-3 petitions each at a difference of +/- 25, 50 and 100 from my petition. All were at the same status, Premium Processing clock stopped on the I129. Hence, I assumed that there certainly cannot be something wrong with hundreds of continuous petitions and all was well. So, unless your petition is sitting right in the middle of continuous approved petitions you should not worry as of now.
are u RFE then clock Stopped or direct clock stopped!
Congratulations…
My petition receipt number is – EAC 13132*****. It changed to status- Initial Review – premium processing clock stopped yesterday around 4 p.m.
was yours the same case?
I didn’t see it. It was in Acceptance stage yesterday and 10:30 am CST it got approved. They r doing it fast.. All the best!
Congrats! Has your attorney/ employer got an email from USCIS regarding the approval? My I129 showed approved status yesterday afternoon but my employer has not got any email from USCIS yet. Thanks in advance.
I didn’t get any mail from them. They called me and informed.. I didn’t ask about how they got info…Have you checked with your attorney?
Libin, thanks for your reply! I saw the status approved yesterday but my attorney/ employer has not received any email. According to USCIS status update, they sent an email notice. Hence wanted to check if people are just checking their status and saying its approved or their employers/ attorneys have received approval emails from USCIS.
“On April 17, 2013, this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice. Please follow any instructions on the notice.”
Employer replied that they will receive mail in 2-3 days.. may be they got it for others..
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AhDhcrPr9JWedEdOU2xMRG1QdTdnaGdyN0JWalhwX1E&om=true&richtext=false#gid=0
please fill this out
My H1B approved!!!
1) California center
2) Master’s Quota
3) Premium Processing
4)Employer-Client (EC)
ALL the best guys………….:)
Thanks for this website for providing a such a great experience of people…
Most of the petitions above me and below me are approved. Only mine and few others are still Acceptance stage. Is the processing in order of receipt number? Fingers crossed…
so no one has received notification of acceptance or rejection in regular quota and regular processing, right?
No not yet…
thanks.
My reason for RFE is agreement between employer and client.
Please let me know what is this did any body received such an RFE..
Dont no what to do what will happen I am worried a lot… after RFE reply will it get approved.
Kindly help
Sid,
How did you get to know the reason for RFE? your attorney received fax / got the mail from uscis?
Agreement document has to be submitted?
or
there is an issue in the agreement?
if your employer has hired for a client project, then USCIS will ask for contract agreement between employer and client.
USCIS will gather the number of years of contract from the agreement apart from other things.
My status changed to RFE this morning. I sent email to my employer. I am waiting to hear back. Not sure when they will receive the RFE in mail and see what is missing/needed further. Is EVC getting RFE’s? or are they getting approved? I heard typically 30-40% cases get RFE’s, most of which should be approved, unless USCIS is resolved to keep denial rates high in order to meet 85K numbers. Any thoughts?
Once they respond to RFE with agreement will my petition gets approved
yeah sure. dont worry.
Lot of cases get RFE. Sometimes USCIS ask the same information that had been submitted already.
RFE is not denial. It is being used by USCIS to really ask for additional documentation or just buy some time.
Any idea when your employer/attorney received the actual RFE document?
did they receive in mail or email or fax?
Hi Rishi ,
My Employer received it on 16th only the day clock stopped .
USCIS sent through FAX and also my employer said they will send also mail.
But while replying they can do in FAX it seems …My employer said they will reply to RFE early next week ….Waiting for my luck no getting concentration do anything…
Hoping for best
Same here buddy
Atleast your employer responded to you and you know what the RFE is all about. I’m still in the dark.
My employer is pointing fingers to the Attorney and no word from attorney yet.
I really wish they sense the emotional part to this H1 and act little more consciously.
Sid,
Let me know what all documents are submitted for your RFE. I have a similar RFE asking for agreement.
mdc , i will come to know what all my employer sending for RFE early next week. But i feel the are going to write detail on clients we have and few agreements they will send describing my rolls.
My RFE is client letter as expected
The funny thing is client letter given by my client is so basic and without the ‘number of years’…
Actually i’m very tired of following up with employers, clients — just want this thing to end and all I want is to know the result
Hi,
My petition was filed in General category/Regular processing. Can anyone say when we/attorneys would get the notification whether the petition was selected in the lottery or not? Is there someone with Regular processing who got confirmation?
I got mine yesterday. AD, RP, CSC. You may get soon anytime.
All the best!
Any idea how long would it take for General Category/Regular Processing?
For general, it may take upto 2-3 weeks. If you are already working here, then don’t worry. I won’t tell you why, but you will know and trust me, you ll be approved.
Are you suggesting that COS petitions such as OPT to H1B might be treated specially regardless lottery results or put them on waitlist?
Sounds to me more than 80% AD will be selected in the lottery as they have higher chance.
I would have preferred USCIS send rejection notice first. so those affected applicants can move forward or jump to plan B real quick.
I would be very surprised if any advanced degree or UG already working here were not selected. If u don’t believe me, research on USCIS and you ll know.
Tiang D can you be a bit more specific? What exactly do you mean? Is there a precedence for this or are you going by gut feel?
dude (sarwan), u might have probably done a research. I too did thoroughly and there is no paper I didn’t read on uscis & their website since last year when I missed the cap by a day. Do you think they ll jumble up all the applications and select only 85k so randomly that some already working here in US companies have to leave and go back and the companies have to import someone as replacement from russsia or china, or whatever you call? No! regardless of number of applications, they ll not disturb the hired candidates and their company unnecessarily. Their main goal is to help them to improve the economy. But the actual AD & UG here does not even make 75%. so chances are still high.
@Tinag D
I would want to believe that too. Thant OPT AD or UG already working in USA should not be in the lottery game and their H1B processed. Its just common sense!!
Anyways..can you be more specific? Is there info am missing out? You sound confident.. please inform us where such precedence is on USCIS website.
BTW Am RQ/non premium/VSC
Hi Tinag, I have friends who also went through the lottery back in 2008 and had been working in the US for a while back then. but they didn’t get selected via the lottery and had to go home…
in 2008? it happened a lot more than that. some people even here applied through fake consultant and they were not selected. some got selected but denied H1 when USCIS found the company was fake. some from abroad were denied to stamp their H1 for same reason. And many fake companies were penalized and blacklisted. Still there are companies that abuse H1 by sending their workers to work on B1/B2
one example is here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/13/us/whistle-blower-claiming-visa-fraud-keeps-his-job-but-not-his-work.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
But this is also helpful in the sense that USCIS is alert and check thoroughly. For me, if USCIS have not selected based on I-129, I would have never got through lottery. How know how unlucky m when based on random things and I don’t believe it either. So stay calm & I wish u all the best.
People who got RFEs.
Please update your status on RFE if you heard from your attorney. If yes, how did your attorney hear from uscis (fax / post)?
Its been 2 days that my status is in Initial Review with Premium processing clock stopped and I haven’t heard from my attorney or employer yet regarding the reason.
I got a RFE. My petition is supposed to perfect and so I’m little shaky about this RFE.
But it is so frustrating that these attorneys are not responding. on the other hand, when questioned, my employer says ‘attorney yet to respond’
I went for PP just because I want to get a quicker result and thus I can carry on with my life. This wait is so frustrating that I’m not able to do anything.
It’s been three days and no response. Being a PP petition, attorney must have received the RFE in FAX/email.I don’t know how these guys work without a SLA/dead line for a specific task.
Hi Rishi, Are you a full-time employee ? or Working as a contractor ?
I’m working as a contractor for one of the big three automotive OEM.
Did you submit your client letter ? If so, does the letter say that project is on-going or expected to go beyond 3 years ?
Client letter is supposed to be submitted by my employer. But just heard from them that Auto OEM will not give a client till a RFE is sent. I don’t understand what stupid policy is this.
I honestly dont understand some of these ORG policies – they want skilled resources, they wont directly process H1 either, they will refer to a tier1 and again they wont give all necessary documents.
Employer has submitted everything other than a client letter. I guess thats what the RFE is all about.
But waiting with fingers crossed.
Hey Rishi..did you receive FAX? I didnt..waiting for three days now;
@Missy
same case here – no update from employer yet
@Rishi..
same here..this wait is so frustrating 🙁
We are reading about how the initial review clock gets stopped and some people move to RFE and some get approved. Think about it for a second, If you were a USCIS processing clerk, and you are not sure about some petitions, you take it to your manager and ask if you should approve/rfe the petition. This is my theory.
I was at RFE untill today noon and now its clocked stooped
so did u get fax for rfe? and then clock stopped?
I received my I797 approval notice from my employer. Let me know If you guys have any specific questions. I can look at the form and let you know. Good Luck to everyone. Please bear in mind that USCIS is swamped with work and even PP cases are still getting notices. Good Luck to all the genuine candidates.
Hey, good to hear that you received your I797 notice already, would you mind telling me for how long they approved this for your (maximum length of stay) ? Also are you going to consular processing or status change ?
Rohan, when did you notice on USCIS Case status that your I129 is approved and when did your attorney/ employer got an email from USCIS? My I129 showed approved status yesterday afternoon but my employer has not got any email from USCIS yet. Thanks in advance.
The maximum length of stay for H1b is 3 years(you file for extension thereafter) and that’s what I have on my form. I was under Advanced degree exemption and my petition was filed in premium processing by my employer.
Hi Friends,
My employer has filed my case on regular processing, and Employer is saying ti might take another two weeks to get update on Lottery results, Is it true that cheques get cleared before getting the receipt, If so please let me know if anyone got notification for Regular Processing.
Thanks,
Rajolu
Hi om,
I am in the same catagory as you! PP/65K cap/ CSC. My receipt no. Starts with 13131. And it just went into initial review with the following message around 5pm PST today :
On April 17, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. A notice was sent on this date explaining the specific reason for stopping the premium processing of your case. This notice will contain detailed information on further action required by you. Your premium processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case.
Cross my fingers! Any updates on your end?
@nina21…
glad to see your petition prgress..
My application is APPROVED.
Good luck to you too.. cheers
Hey om! Mine got approved too! But I didnt get any confirmation from attorney. Do u know whats going to happen next?
congrats on the approval.
I am not sure about the next steps and the involved time frame…
i guess the next step is the STAMPING…
you US based?
I am in the regular cap, regular processing. My HR tells me that my petition is selected in lottery but when i ask her the receipt number, she says that they are yet to receive the mail.
I am sure the receipt number must be in the email communication the attorney received. Or can the email be without any receipt numbmer? Is there any other information that email gives us?
@Sahil.
I think( Don’t quote me on this) that your attorney will get a email notice from USCIS If he/she has filled up the G1145 form. If not than he/she might have to wait for USCIS mail. Your HR professional must have noticed that the cheque (attached along with your file)got en cashed and subsequently informed you that you got selected in the lottery.
Thanks Rohan,
The email communication that attorney’s are receiving, is it same as the USCIS Form I-797 Notice of Receipt. Apart from the receipt number, will it also tell us the approximate processing time for our case?
My HR told me that my USCIS has acknowledged the receipt of my application, which makes me believe they got an email. I will be checking with my HR as well but wanted to know what all should be in that email.
G1145 form is not for EAC or WAC (the only two centers that accept new H1B petitions).
Hi Guys,
Did anyone receive receipts just recently thru email/mail from AD/PP/CSC category ?
Please respond, that way we get hope…..!!!
APPROVED: DATE JUNE 17
AD/PP/CSC………
GOOD LUCK TO ALL…….
Hi ng,
Did you receive this in email/mail ? And When? Could you please be clear….?
Anyways congos…!!!
@hope
Thanks
… email from attorney…………around 3.00 pm (pst)……..
my number is WAC13129xxxxx………..
good luck….
All,
My H1B approved and got confirmation from attorney today afternoon…..
All the best to the people who are waiting for Receipts and people who are waiting for Decision.
Mine was AD/PP/VSC and it was approved yesterday evening after sitting in initial review with clock stopped message for 2-3 hours.
ALL the bst guys………….:)
Thanks for this websites for providing a such a great experience of people…
Congrats Happy! Your receipt no starting with 13131? Acceptance date?
LM thanks
yes it is starting with 13131XXXXX. aaceptance date 9th april approved yesterday night ….
From last 3 hrs it is showing the below status. This one is Reg/PP/Vermont. Any idea or previous experience how long it takes to move from this status and the actual meaning of this message.
On April 17, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. A notice was sent on this date explaining the specific reason for stopping the premium processing of your case. This notice will contain detailed information on further action required by you. Your premium processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case.
m AD regular processing in California and just got my receipt number few hours back. From my past OPT experience, it looks like you missed some documents while USCIS was trying to approve your H1. If so, you will receive a mail with details of proof documents they want. You must carefully collect and document those papers (whatever proof they ask) and must send it back to the given address (address will be enclosed) neatly before the DEADLINE they mention. Otherwise, your H1 will be doomed.
eh, sounds like they’re about to approve your H1B. I got the same status update Monday evening. then my status changed to ‘decision’ on Tuesday evening. so chill.
if they need more evidence, one of the circle (y know, Acceptance, Initial Review, Decision, etc) will say “Request for Evidence”.
Can you pls share the first 5 digits of your receipt number? What is your acceptance mail date?
I got the same for PP/AD/EAC today
Can you pls share the first 5 digits of your receipt number? What is your acceptance mail date? thanks and all the best!
All the very best on your case… hope u get your approval soon!
13132
date of Acceptance? April 10th?
yes
Mine too.. Hope mine will get processed in couple of days.. All the best SK.
@ Sk
I saw similar message it will stay like that for 2-3 hour and will go to decision state and mostlikely it will be approved…..
Thanks Happy for giving me hope.
My H1 got approved. Status changed.
Hi ,
Anyone got receipt for regular quota/PP/ from VSC today???
Is there any hope??
Waiting for receipt.. Reg/pp/ cal
Got receipt No. last Tuesday, Reg/PP/CSC, pretty early, then checked my status every day this week. Many numbers before and after me have upgraded to decision step, mine is still in Acceptance. I think USCIS don’t follow first in first out rule, right?
Wats the first 5 digits of ur receipt no?
wac13128…… still stay in Acceptance status right now.
Here we go!
Hi Friends,
I just got my Receipt Number from my HR via the company’s lawyer. My H1 application is under Advanced Degree, Regular Processing in California Service Center. I thought it will take several weeks as it is not premium processing, but it came too fast. Come October and I will go home and meet my family. Never saw them since 2010. I wish all the best to friends already especially working here in US and whose OPT is dying. I know we lived in pressure cooker like atmosphere these days. But friends, trust me we gave everything to contribute in our own little way to this great nation and m sure by grace of God USCIS won’t let us down. My best wishes for all.
Congratz Tina!! I am on the same boat.. never seen them since Jan 2011.. Pray for the others as well 🙂 I hope I hear the same good news after investing so much time, energy, and effort in this..
God; you know the issue..
Anybody got approval with receipt number like EAC13132*****
13131 series cases got approved yest..
mine starts EAC13131 and it`s still under acceptance since April 10th, is that normal?
My received date is April 8th and acceptance mail was sent on April 10th. My application should be filed after urs.. It all depends on the speed of process and number of applications received on the same date.. I assume ours will be done in another 3-4 days… wish u the best!
I am EAC13131257XX.
April 10th it says, but still in acceptance. Hoping tmro should be the day for us.
I got the RFE
@Mahaveer: Does your status showing Request for Evidence?
Yes…accepted on 10th today came on RFE and stopped watch
did u receive fax?…i didnt yet
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/introduce-company-level-cap-temporary-work-permits-h1-b/tF8QSBhJ
Please vote
Does anyone know how long its going to take from acceptance to initial review?
Thanks in advance!
if its premium.. result should be out by Apr 30.
Thanks for the info om! Yes. It is premium processing
am waiting as well to see the progress of my petition as well…
@nina421.. whats your case?
mine is Premium/Calif/Regular(65K)… and receipt num: WAC131295XXXX
yours?
Hi om,
I am in the same catagory as you! PP/65K cap/ CSC. My receipt no. Starts with 13131. And it just went into initial review with the following message around 5pm PST today :
On April 17, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. A notice was sent on this date explaining the specific reason for stopping the premium processing of your case. This notice will contain detailed information on further action required by you. Your premium processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case.
Cross my fingers! Any updates on your end?
@Nina421
Based on my experience:
Acceptance- April 10-15
Initial Review- April 15 (evening)
Decision- April 16
All the best
Hi wait.for.it,
Thanks for the info! My status just changed to initial review with 15 calendar days’ clock stopped. I think it changed to initial review some time between 4pm to 6 pm PST this afternoon.
Keep my fingers crossed!
Anyone with receipts Premium/Calif/RegularQuota(65K) see progress in their applications TODAY…
Acceptance -> Initial Review/RFE/Approval..?
I still dont know the status of my H1 application but my wife’s H4 has been approved.
”
Post Decision Activity
On April 16, 2013, we mailed you a notice that we have approved this I539 APPLICATION TO EXTEND OR CHANGE NONIMMIGRANT STATUS. Please follow any instructions on the notice. If you move before you receive the notice, call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
”
So, I am assuming mine got selected in lottery and approved as well.
Still waiting from my attorney’s confirmation though
How You know Your Wife H4 get Approved
uscis sends H4 receipts to the applicants address not the employer
What did your attorney tell about your H1b receipt ?
I am still waiting for a confirmation from my employer/attorney regarding my H1B. They are very slow and they do have other priorities. But what I understand from my friends is that H4 will not be approved without first haivng the H1B approved.
Please let me know if its otherwise.
People who got RFE’s.
Could you please updates reason for RFE. My employer has not received anything.
Last time my employer goofed up and my petition was rejected. I just want to make sure my employer/attorney replies properly.
Do I have to get a second opinion on what the RFE means from another attorney
thanks
Proof of Master’s degree
RFE sent thru fax.
Vermont, accepted April 8th.
My attroney received fax yesterday regarding RFE .
And replied for mail saying that they will respond to them .
Hope employer has to provide some docs as they not asked anything from side.
Please let me know what all possible RFE for employer
@Sid : yours a AD or REG quota petition?
when did the status in USCIS changed to ‘premium clock stopped or RFE’?
thnks
When did you receive fax after your status changed to RFE. Mine has crossed 36 hours and no fax yet. The status still shows RFE. 🙁
Guy’s,
I just recieved my approval notice from my attorney. I thought I will share this info with everyone who is egerly waiting to hear.
My status still reads “On April 16, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER” so please don’t go by the status. Most of you might already been approved. USCIS is just overwhelmed right now that there is no way they can keep updating the status.
For those who are still waiting to know if you are selected in the lottery, hang in there. I recieved my receipt yesterday frm attorney althought It was dated April 08.
My timeline from recieving receipt to approval – 1 DAY.
So bottom line…….don’t go by the USCIS online status or loose hope on the lotter YET. They are still sending out notifications to PP and regulat.
Goodluck everyone!!!
congrats @Approved.
can you tell us..
atleast first 8characters of your receipt number…
premium?
Vermont/California?
AD(20K)/Regular(65K?
Premium/Vermont/AD
Hope this helps!
Hi,
Thanks for sharing this information. Any chances you can share you WAC or EAC number. That will be really awesome.
Regards,
Kalu
was this showing on RFE!!!! while clock stoped!!!
Finally got moving from acceptance stage and got stuck this morning at RFE 🙁
What is the received date and which SC?
April 8th, Vermont
Same happened to me.
It hasnt moved back to initial review and it says “Process is suspended” so this means it really did get on RFE?
On April 17, 2013, we mailed a notice requesting evidence/information for this case to you or your representative. Please follow the instructions on the notice to submit the material requested. This case will be held in suspense until we either receive the evidence/information or the opportunity to submit it expires. A new processing period will begin when we receive your response. You or your representative will be notified by that office of a decision or if any further information or action is needed from you. If you move, please use our Change of Address online tool to update your case with your new address
I had the same issue. Just after 45 minutes, the status changed to Initial Review and process suspended and still waiting to hear.
Crap they are updating it fast. Now its back to Initial Review, with clock stopped. Hope it turns out like others’ case here which turned into approval after couple of hours.
I am sure I am going to wear my F5 key out today. 🙂 🙂
On April 17, 2013, the 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped on your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. A notice was sent on this date explaining the specific reason for stopping the premium processing of your case. This notice will contain detailed information on further action required by you. Your premium processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case.
Which center did you apply?
Vermont,
I havent got my degree certificate from school for master’s as I only graduate in May 11th, but presented a school stamped registrar’s letter which lawyer said is suffice but sometime they might come back and ask for the actual degree.
Also, my employer being provately held didnt submitted actual tax return for company but VP signed a note to uscis detailing the net earnings and stuff.
Thats why I am going ok if you need something send it to me fast.
Man I hate this Text Alert, damn thing sends out two alerts in a different time, making you think its updated again.
Just got a call from Lawyer, only thing that they are asking for is proof of master’s degree. So mine is stuck till the 11th of May when I walk on my graduation.
If it helps anyone, the deadline for RFE according to the lawyer is 13th of July.
@AC
can you let me know how your lawyer heard from uscis? did they send any email / fax?
They sent fax, and she also mentioned that being on a premium processing any RFE could be sent back to USCIS via fax no need to do an actual mail.
Congrats!
You can actually get a letter from your Registrar Graduate School in lieu of your MS Degree, if you are done with everything and finish that off. I got my OPT stem like that last year. Although you have time, remember you won’t get your actual degree when you walk. Actual Degree takes 6-8 weeks after you walk and comes via FedEx mail. m just reminding you only. All the best.
Yes I am agree with Tinag D…. You will get the degree after 3 or 4 weeks of graduation. But you can do one thing, go and ask to school to issue Course compilation letter and take invitation letter for graduating regrading your name date and place of venue. I hope you submitted already official transcript if not than also take from scholl and submit all document together.
@ AC..When your status change to RFE and when did your employer / lawyer get RFE in FAX. your answer would be appreciate. Thanks
I too received RFE from CSC for Regular/PP.
My attorney is yet to mail me what evidence USCIS has requested for.
Hi
Any updates for those who are in ‘Initial Review’ status and clock stopped?
Mine is in this status since yesterday and i haven’t heard from my lawyer or employer yet if its RFE and they received any email or fax.
Does uscis send an email/fax if its RFE?
Please reply if anyone know anything about this.
Thanks.
I am still waiting for an response from USCIS/ Attorney / Employer. Not sure what is going on. My status change happened and now its close to 2 days. Still no progress!
Congratulations to people who got their h1b approved.
People who got RFE’s.
Could you please updates reason for RFE. My employer has not received anything.
Last time my employer goofed up and my petition was rejected. I just want to make sure my employer/attorney replies properly.
Do I have to get a second opinion on what the RFE means from another attorney
thanks
one of my friend had same thing.
His status is on RFE then back to Initial Review and he got email from USCIS through Lawyer about RFE on Client Letter missing.
Mine is same as your case Suresh. No fax yet on RFE (premium). Almost 1.5 days now. :'(
Hi guys,
I received an email from my employer stating this,”I’m sending this email to happily announce that we have received notifications for each of you stating that you have indeed been granted your H1B valid as of October 1, 2013! ”
Does is mean I am selected in the lottery or it means my case is approved? Because I didnt receive any receipt number….
Thanks
Nina421,
Are you in AD category and PP??
I wonder how could it be approved without interview if it is Regular (Not Masters)… Please clarify…
Hi, I am undergraduate premium processing. Just got another email from attorney stating that I got my receipt number. And I checked, just now, it is in acceptance state. Could please tell me a liitle bit more about whats going to happen next? In terms of the interview, is it part of the process and when is it going to be?
Thanks 🙂
Hi NRJK,
I just got another email from my attorney with my receipt number. I checked the status and it is still acceptance. I guess it hasnt been approved yet. And since I am in the US right now, so I dont need an interview unless I travel back to China.
Hope this helps. Good luck to you NRJK!
hi, im also in US.i am in reqular quota PP . My visa got approved on monday morning,
Congrats!!R u on H4? Did you apply through any consultancies?
HI,
Am waiting for the receipt number,may I know whether am out for this year,or whether it takes some more time.Can anyone let me know this,Its really killing us.Its a regular one not PP,so how long does it take normally to get the receipt number.
Same situation…waiting…waiting…waiting…
Me too.. thought i could wait till this month end.
I have applied for H1b Regular. Does any one from Regular quota got Petition Number?? Its like hell ot time for me. Is it notified to the employeer whether we win Loteery or not?
Even am in the same state.
Have the checks for filing fees been cashed for you guys yet? Good luck, lets hope for the best!
The status on Decision phase says. “On April 16th this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice. Please follow any instructions on the notice”. I saw this in the morning and it remains on Decision phase ever since. Can anyone tell me what are the next steps in the process?
Have you applied through Premium?
I have the same message (but in my case its Apr 10th)… Im on premium.. what would be the next steps?
yes. I still have the approval notice
You attorney will receive the hard copy Approval Notice from the USCIS in the next few days. Next steps depend on your location.
If you are outside US:
You attorney will put together a consular processing packet, which you will have to take with you to the US consulate for the visa interview. I think US consulates only issue visas upto 90 days prior to the employment start date.
If you inside the US:
Your attorney will send you the I797 approval along with a new I94 which you need to staple it along with your existing I94. The I94 number is the same, but your status will reflect H-1B instead of the prior non-immigrant status(such as F1 or H4)
Your Attorney/Employer will get an Approved your I129 petition, which they will then forward to you in hardcopy. Once you get the hardcopy you will have to schedule a meeting at the consulate you mentioned in your I129 form and go for visa stamping.
Guy around 5:30CST i saw my applicaiton shows clock is stopped today not sure it is approved or got RFE. .. does anyone know it is going to be approved or we also get clock stopped for RFE as well? and not go to RFE state?
PP/Reg/Fragomen
Still no receipt from Fragomen, does it mean I am out for this year now?
ANY IDEA ON THIS ? YOUR REPLAY WOULD BE HIGHLY APPRECIATED.
In the morning (Around 7:30 AM EST) Its shows RFE and after half n hour it’s change to Initial Review with clock stopped message and still on same stage. I checked with my employer and they didn’t received any fax or email regarding RFE. Anyone in same boat or anyone who had same situation and get any update regarding it. Please post your comment.
Thanks.
Its an RFE
Mine is showing RFE for 1.5 days (CSC/PP). Dont know what to do. No letter/fax yet
I got a RFE and still has not changed to initial review, still no documents from USCIS. I dont think of anything I have not submitted. plus i dont work for a consultancy. so frustrating especially alll this wait time.
Any updates on FAX?.. I am still waiting for it.. M on RFE for past 3 days..same status….FRUSTRATING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Does any one got approval for California center ???
Got approval notice from USCIS some time back. CSC/Regular/PP
Good luck to rest of you guys :))
Congrats to all who got approval and all the best for rest of you guys!
Anybody got approval who is currently on H4?
i didnt get. i am in the same situation.
all the best to you! pls update you details on the link I posted below
hi i am on H4 . I got the approval on monday
Congrats anu!! from kerala? Can u pls send a test mail to libis22 at gmaildotcom? had some doubts on this..
Did you submit it with consultancy or any big company? Also u had client letter in your application?
Do you mind sharing when you got the receipt number and when your case was approved? I just got my receipt number yesterday, and it is in the acceptance state, so trying to figure out whats going to happen next.
Thanks in advance!
nina, it will change to intial review in a couple of days in my case. then within an hour it changed to approved .
Anybody here filed for H1 now on H4 visa? Please update your details here- http://forum.murthy.com/index.php?/topic/56075-all-h4-s-who-applied-for-h1b-2013-all-visa-centers/
Approved!! HURRRAAY!! RegCap/PP/CSC, received receipt on 11th of april (originally filed on 1st of april), all status changes occurred today ! IM SO RELIEVED, next stage: appointment at embassy 😛
Congrats!!
Did it initially go to “Intial Review 15-day Premium Processing clock stopped”?
yes it did! changed within 1.5 hours to approved
March1612, Don’t worry – the time being taken from Initial Review:Clock Stopped message to the final Approval message really is varying a lot among applicants. For me, it took an entire day (from morning to evening) for the Clocked Stopped status to get updated to Approved status. You will get an approval soon. All the best !
I have been waiting for almost 36 hours with same status message. What does that mean?
Suresh, Did you get to hear anything from your attorney ? If it is a RFE, by this time your attorney should have got atleast a fax/email. I would not conclude that it is a RFE if no fax/email has been received yet – in which case, the best course of action would be to have your attorney call USCIS directly at their Premium Processing verification toll-free# and check the status (I ‘am assuming yours is premium processing). Since it is 36 hrs, this is the fastest course of action your attorney can take.
No, I emailed my Attorney yesterday and Still have not heard anything from her and also from my Employer. Yes, mine is PP/CSC/Master’s.
Do you have the attorney’s phone# ? Phone call to her may work quiker than email. Just see if you can figure out a way to have them or your employer call USCIS on your case status. That would be the quickest way I can think of. If not, I have a feeling you will receive an update by tomorrow at the latest, if not by tonight. But I do pray for your approval to come through quickly. Best wishes and post your updates.
Is it Vermont service center? Can u pls share first 5 digits of your receipt number?
Thanks and congrats!!
so it seems my petition was approved, after the status sitting on “Initial Review” since this morning. Below is the approval message on USCIS status page
On April 16, 2013, this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice. Please follow any instructions on the notice. If you move before you receive the notice, call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
Phew! I did not worry lol …
Update : I received the status change email 30 minutes after i received my approval email from my attorney !! All clock stopped is approved i guess !! Good luck guys
Good to hear you are approved as well. Surely the USCIS can improve their system and this whole process, so that the human suffering is lessened in this ordeal.
But anyway, good luck to everyone here, my best wishes to all of you guys!
The status of my petition (Masters/Premium/Vermont) on USCIS website was showing up as – “Initial Review: 15 day premium processing clock stopped”. I saw this by around 11:10 AM EST. By around 4:30 PM EST, the status changed to – “Approved”.
Phew ! This was a very stressful wait but finally, ended well for me.
I pray for all of us here and for our future careers.
HI, mine case shows the same status as of now, but in morning it was showing RFE; just wondering have your case been as an RFE for some time at USCIS site before approval? Thanks!
I have been waiting for almost 36 hours with same status message.
I checked first time this morning around 11:15 AM EST and at that time, it was showing “Initial Review” with clock stopped message and was in that status for most of the day today. By around 4:30 PM EST, it went to Approved status.
I subscribed to email updates on my petition, so I get an email whenever they make any change to it. Mine went from Acceptance to Initial Review with clock stopped then within 3 Hours 45 minutes it was Approved. No change to RFE.
Hello
H1 and H4 applied together
My wife received her H4 receipt in the mail on 12th.
Does this mean my H1 application is also selected in the lottery?
Yes, i think you have been selected in the lottery. Congratulations.
Thanks for the reply.
Recieved recipet in mail today even though i applied Premium.
I know it means i am through the lottery, i applied in premium shouldn’t the case say something about it. Could someone decipher it from me.
Thanks
“On April 10, 2013, we received this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER and we e-mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case. Please follow any instructions on this notice. This case is being processed at our CALIFORNIA SERVICE CENTER location. You will be notified by mail when a decision is made, or if the office needs something from you. If you move while this case is pending, please use our Change of Address online tool to update your case with your new address or call our customer service center at 1-800-375-5283.”
nothing to decipher, it does indicate that you filed under PP (it says emailed), congratz … time to worry about next steps 😛