H1B Visa processing by USCIS can vary greatly depending on the service center you filed with and the processing type you chose. When you apply for an H1B petition with USCIS for the first time, or transfers, or extensions, you may wonder about the processing times, delays, typical processing times, if there is an SLA, and many other questions.
In this article, we will review types of H1B Visa processing, the difference between regular vs. premium processing, fees, average processing times, and many other details, including some common FAQs.
If you are new to the H1B Visa process, read the articles below to understand the general process, the meaning of USCIS’s H1B Statuses, and receipt numbers.
- How to Check USCIS Case Status online using a Case Receipt Number.
- Understanding the meaning of H1B Case/Petition Receipt Number
- H1B Statuses RFE, Approval, Denial and, How to check
Types of H1B Visa Petition Processing
H1B Visa Processing time with USCIS varies based on the type of processing that the employer or sponsor chooses when they file the H1B petition. There are two types of processing :
- Regular processing
- Premium processing.
An employer can file in one of the above-listed processing types when they file any of the following types of H1B petition with USCIS:
- New H1B cap-subject petitions (filed after selection in H1B Lottery)
- H1B transfer petitions
- H1B amendments
- H1B Extensions.
Now, let’s look at each of the H1B visa petition processing types in detail.
H1B Regular Processing Time
If an employer or an H1B sponsor submits an H1B petition with USCIS using the standard process, without including any extra fee for faster processing, then the petition is said to be filed under regular processing.
Regular processing is the default processing type when an employer or sponsor sends the H1B petition to USCIS. If there is no time pressure, most employers use Regular processing.
H1B Regular Processing Documents, Fee
There are no additional documents or fees that an employer needs to submit when filing an H1B petition under regular processing. The employer would submit USCIS standard Form I-129 along with the relevant H1B Filing Fee and supporting documents as listed in the H1B Filing Checklist by USCIS.
There is no additional fee to process an H1B petition in regular processing. Employer submits standard application fee as required. Also, there is no need to file Form I-907 or pay an additional premium processing fee when submitting under regular processing.
How long does USCIS take for H1B Regular processing?
USCIS has no fixed duration or Service Level Agreement(SLA) time for H1B Regular processing. It totally depends on the filing location and the load at the USCIS processing center. Every case is unique, and processing times can vary.
Based on USCIS historical processing times, from the last six years (FY 2020 to FY 2025), it can take anywhere from 1.8 months to 3.5 months for the H1B petition filed in Regular processing using Form I-129.
For FY 2025 (until the end of May 2025), as you can see in the screenshot below, the regular processing time for H1B petitions is about 3.5 months. See the screenshot below from the USCIS website based on historical processing times for the last six years.
If the applicant gets an RFE (Request for Evidence), the processing time can vary based on the complexity of the RFE issued. It can take a few more months, up to 6 months or more. If there are no complexities with the case, you may get a decision within 2 months. To check current processing times by service center, you can check the article Check USCIS H1B Visa Processing times.
H1B Premium Processing Time
If an employer or sponsor pays an extra premium processing fee to USCIS to have the H1B petition adjudicated (decision) within 15 calendar days, then that petition is said to be filed in H1B premium processing.
H1B Premium Processing Documents, Fee
To file an H1B petition in premium processing, the employer or sponsor needs to submit a completed Form I-907 along with a premium processing fee of $2,805 when they file an H1B petition with USCIS. The premium processing fee is in addition to the general H1B filing fee.
An employer can file for premium processing at the time of filing or upgrade to premium processing after filing and getting the receipt notice. The premium processing fee increased to $2,805 from $2500 starting from February 26, 2024. If you are filing for premium processing for a H1B FY 2026 season petition or for transfers in 2025, you must submit $2,805 towards the premium processing fee.
How long does USCIS take for H1B Premium processing?
USCIS takes 15 calendar days or less to adjudicate an H1B petition filed in premium processing. They have a 15-day Service Level Agreement(SLA) and guarantee that any H1B petition filed in premium processing will be adjudicated in 15 calendar days or less.
If they do not meet the 15 days timeline, they will refund the premium processing fee and continue to process the H1B petition in expedited processing. This only happens, when there is an extensive load and USCIS cannot meet its SLA. It does not happen often. Based on past data, they only refunded 0.073% of H1B petitions filed under premium processing in the past three years.
For the Fiscal Year(FY) 2025 season ( until May 31st, 2025), the current premium processing time average is about 0.4 months, which is about 12 days. If you were to file in premium, you should get a decision in less than two weeks as per current processing times. You may check the USCIS screenshot above for the official historical data.
H1B Extension Processing Time
The processing time for an H1B Extension petition depends on how it was filed. If it was filed under regular processing or premium processing. If it was filed under Premium processing time, then you can expect to have a decision within 15 calendar days; if not, it can take a few months.
The fee and SLA for H1B extensions are the same as the general new H1B petition described above in the article. If the H1B extension is filed in Regular Processing, the processing time can vary based on the location of filing and the processing times at the USCIS service center.
In general, the H1B extension processing can be slightly faster than regular processing, if there are not many changes in the employment terms and role of the H1B employee. This is because USCIS can give some weightage or deference to the previous first H1B approval and use that for the extension. But, this may change with the second term of the Trump administration in 2025 as they are looking at some changes to the H1B program.
H1B Transfer Processing Time
Similar to H1B extensions, the H1B Transfer petitions’ processing time varies based on the type of processing you choose, either regular or premium. If you file it under Premium Processing, you will get a decision within 15 calendar days, but if you file in regular processing, it can vary based on where it was filed and the case. It can vary anywhere from 2 to 4 months or more.
The H1B transfer petition is filed with a new employer and there is no previous approval history. So, it would be treated like a new petition, and it can take more time than the H1B extension petition processing time.
Should you apply for Premium H1B Visa Processing?
It totally depends on your situation. In recent years, many employers have tried to file H1B in premium processing because they know the decision will be made faster and can plan accordingly to have the employee work from October 1st. Having said that, unless there is a need, you do not need to apply for premium processing. Think of it logically, you cannot work until October 1st…why waste money?
Also, in recent years, premium processing was suspended for H1B cap-subject petitions to decrease the overall processing times of all petitions. But, unlike the new cap subject petition, for H1B Transfer scenarios, employers usually apply for premium processing because of two reasons, first, they can work right away and not need to wait till October 1st, and secondly, they are changing between companies, you do not want to be stuck with the old employer during this time. You can consider doing premium when you are at the beginning of August or early September.
Applied for an H1B Petition, but still USCIS status says “Case Received.” What should I do?
Well, unfortunately, there is nothing you can do but wait for USCIS to process your application. As discussed in the above section, it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months or more. All you can do is wait. Do NOT panic that you are not getting any response from USCIS. As long as your application was correctly filed and the company is good, you should get approval.
Here are a few things you can do:
- If you are really curious, you may apply for H1B visa premium processing anytime for general petitions by paying $2,805 and upgrading your case. Your employer must process the premium through the attorney. You cannot do it on your own.
- You can ask your attorney to call USCIS and ask the status. In the past, one of our blog readers reported success, and their application decision was made within a week of calling, although there is no guarantee, worth a shot.
- You can check the particular service center where your petition was filed and get approximate processing times to get an idea. You can do this on the USCIS website, which is under the bottom section where you check your case status.
- Just wait. I understand the anxiety…but there is no shortcut.
H1B Visa FY 2026 Processing timelines – Regular vs. Premium?
USCIS did not suspend premium processing for the H1B FY 2026 season. So, we have premium processing for H1B FY 2026 season. If you were to file the H1B petition during FY 2026 in premium processing, you would get a decision within 15 days. As per the historical data until May 2025, it is 0.4 months, which is around 12 days time.
Regarding regular processing for FY 2026 cap-subject petitions, we do not have any data yet. Below are some data points for your reference.
- USCIS Historical Trend Data: According to USCIS’s historical processing times as of May 31st, 2025, the processing time is about 3.5 months (see the above screenshot).
- Current Trend Data: According to current processing times, the Texas Service center’s processing time is approximately 8 months. See the data below from the USCIS processing times website, presented by VisaGrader H1B Processing times.
So, based on two data points, for FY 2025 H1B petitions filed with USCIS, you can expect decision on your case anywhere from 2 to 8 months.
Also, the better thing than the published USCIS processing times is looking at the H1B Tracker data contributed by the community. Check below for more info.
H1B Visa Tracker
You can check out the average H1B Visa processing times using VisaGrader’s H1B Visa Tracker. It is anonymous and all the data on our tracker page is contributed by users like you. Please add your H1B case by registering and continue to update your status. It will help others get an idea.
Register, add your case anonymously at VisaGrader – H1B Visa Case Tracker
Current H1B Processing times, History
You can check USCIS.gov for Processing times or on a website like VisaGrader.com for the same. The big difference is, VisaGrader has historical data and gives you a holistic view of the processing times across all the Service Centers as in the below screenshots. Check Current H1B Visa Processing Times on VisaGrader.com
Common FAQs
Unfortunately, there is no defined turnaround time/ SLA (Service Level Agreement) requirement for USCIS to respond to H1B petitions filed with them under regular processing. The 15 calendar days SLA only applies to petitions filed under premium processing.
No, applying for H1B premium processing will not increase your chances for getting H1B petition approved. It just expedites the processing time. So, do not be mislead by the fact that $2,805 will increase chances of approval. Read 5 H1B Visa Myths you need to know
In fact, there is no difference between a regular H1B petition and transfer except the transfers are not considered towards cap. So, the processing times are pretty much similar. It can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months based on historical processing times by USCIS in last five years. You can read How to check H1B visa processing times at USCIS Service centers
How much was your H1B Visa filing processing time ? Any thoughts to share on the processing time waiting ?
One of my friend is going to work with IT consultant. The consultant is asking him to sign a contract for a year. According to that he can’t leave the consultant fora year. how much valid is this contract. Is it legally executable in USA ? whether all consultant play the same game.
Thanks
Employment in US is at will. So no company can force you to stay w/ them for 1 year or so. You or the employer can leave each other at any time. However, if there are other provisions in the contract then that can be executable. Yes, usually all the consulting companies ask the employees to sign the contract (as fear tactics).
Hi Saurabh,
My wife is currently in India and she has H-4 stamped valid till Feb 2013. Last month her employer has filed H1B in normal processing and we have received the receipt number. Currently the lead time seems to be 4 months. My question is – can she travel to US in Jan 2012 and stay on H-4 till her H1B petition is approved and go back to India in Mar-Apr 2012 for H1B staming before stating the work?
Yes that is possible. The other alternate is that once she is in US on H-4 and her H-1 gets approved, she can apply for COS from H-4 to H-1. Once approved, her status would be H-1 and she can start working. No immediate stamping is required in this scenario; although she would need to get H-1 visa stamped next time she travels out of the US.
Hello Saurabh,
Need your advice.
My H1-B Petition was filed on 15-Nov under Normal Processing, and it was under Initial Review phase. On 15-Dec, it was upgraded to Premium. Now, the current status is Acceptance Phase for the last few days (5-7 days).
Is it a thing to worry about or there is some delay due to which it’s not moving forward. Please suggest.
Regards,
In case off PP, lot of times status jumps directly from Acceptance to Decision or RFE. I don’t think you need to worry as long as 15 calendar days have not elapsed.
Thanks Saurabh for your prompt reply…
Got one doubt.
Being in the acceptance phase, does it mean that the 15 calendar days period is already in progress or once it moves to Initial Review Phase, the 15 day period start? Please advice.
Regards
It starts from the day USCIS received and confirms the PP upgrade request. Do you know if USCIS has sent an email for that to the attorney or did they change the online status for that?
I will check with my attorney, whether they received an email on the same.
Regarding Online Satus, when in checked on 15 or 16, i saw that it changed to Acceptance
On December 15, 2011, we received this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER and we ………….
(Earlier it was in Initial Review)
But not sure, whether they updated it to something like the petition upgraded to premium…
Thanks Saurabh for helping out…
Regards
Whenever they receive PP upgrade request the online status changes to something like “on xxx we received the request for premium processing ….”
If that hasn’t happened until now, and employer/attorney hasn’t received any email, then they should call USCIS and check the status.
Thanks Saurabh..
As you said, it moved today directly to RFE 🙁 today..
Waiting for response from attorney as what is required now..
Regards
Hi,
We have applied H1 under Premium Processing on Nov 16th. We are intimated via e-mail that RFE is raised but we did not get the RFE notice. Generally how long it would take to receive the notice through mail?
Thanks,
Narasimha
Hi Narasimha,
Even my case was upgraded to premium on 6th dec and it moved o RFE n 14th dec..and the employer says they are yet to receive the hardcopy of notice ..
Saurabh ,can u please tell us how long does it generally take to receive the hardcopy of RFE notice? Only after that , I will get to know the additional docs they have asked for?
Thanks,
Shweta
Hard copy of RFE may take 1-2 weeks to reach employer/attorney. As holidays are approaching it may take even longer.
Sub: Clarification / advice regarding filing H1B amendment
I got my H1B Visa stamped on Nov29-2011till 2014 for client A (my LCA JOB title was system Analyst for location X ). Now I have to travel for another Client -B, My employer has generated an LCA for Client-B’s location Y with JOB title as system analyst but Client B is not accepting to post LCA with system analyst as job title as they dont have such designation and asked to change the JOB title as Software Engineer. This needs and amendment to my H1B?. My employer is ready to file amendment but i am concerned on the same. Kindly guide / clarify me on the below queries
1. Duration for approval of amendment petition if filed as premium case?
2. Is there any chances of denying amendment petition? If so will my stamped visa be valid?
3. Is there any risk in filing amendment petition?
4. Will my Visa stamping date change if amendment is approved for only one year?
Kindly clarify me on the same.
Thank you!
Hi! My employer filed an h1b amended petition due to change in location on Sept 28,2011 and until now it is still on Initial Review. I believe the first filing date before it was change was Sept 5. It is on regular processing. It’s almost 3 months now and I know that it could take up to 6 months but some of my colleagues who are also on the same employer already got approved last week. Was the change in location a big factor in the delay of my petition? Thanks.
What was the location?
Vermont Srvice center for Texas work Location
Hi Saurabh,
Mine is L1 to H1.Filed at Vermont.Premium acknowledgement received on Dec 15.
Do you have any information on how long Vermont normally takes.
Also let me know if RFE is requested,how much would be the turnaround time,once evidence is provided.
Regards
Krish
Premium processing would take 15 calendar days irrespective of service center. Once evidence is submitted, USCIS will adjudicate it within another 15 calendar days.
Hi Saurabh,
My employer filed H1B for me and got the receipt on October 14, 2011. My status is still in Initial Review state. Its been more than 2 months since it has been filed.
Is this normal or is there any way in case they may reject it, coz the quota got closed already.
Thank you!
Processing usually takes 2-6 months. Delay doesn’t mean denial and closing of quota doesn’t impact the outcome of your processing.
Thanks a lot for the help!!
Hi Saurubh,
My employer called USCIS to chk for the h1 b status as they are not providing any updates and also as I mentioned earlier that my petition reached USCIS on nov 21 and still have not received receipt/ updates from uscis..So pls guide me whats need to be done as my opt expires in feb 2011. I have applied at Vermont centre.
Waiting for you reply.
Thanks
Kajal
There is not much you or employer can do except to contact USCIS and ask for an update. Does your employer has an attorney on roll?
Hi Saurubh,
Yes my employer has an attorney on roll. Today again they called and they didn’t give any information but they said that they still not have reached my case.
So don’t know what are the possibilities as I filed in premium process.
Thanks
Kajal
A company XYZ has filed for my H1 B transfer under normal processing at Vermont center on 14th Sep’ 2011. Its been more than 3 months but still the status shows as Initial review. The USCIS website shows an avg. processing time of 2.5 months which is now well over. Anybody with similar situation or having an idea as to when an update can be expected ?
In reality, it can take up to 6 months. I recently saw some posts related to approval of a petition filed in August. So you might get your result in another couple of months or so.
Hi,
Mine was filed in Aug 11th and I still have not received any updates.
Just waiting and praying.
Hi,
I Working on Health Care industry with CPT, I applied H1b from Vendor in premium Processing. after some time I cam to Know that My H1 B Approved.
But later I got acall from Employer saying that change of Status Got Denied due to Some Transcript Miss Pinting on 2 Onlne Cources Actuall i did only one Online Course. Then I went to College to get that corrected and got a letter that i never did any 2 Online cources and that other Online cource which is in not actual Online it is PRA and they corrected in Transcript.
College Provided New transcript and Letter and Submitted to Lawyer.
My lawyer says
1. If we get good responce saying that u never taken and wrong steps and status approved we are good.
2. If they request for Appeal I need to go back to India and get H1b Stamping because its already approved.
Please let me know what are the chances for 1. If any thing goes wrong What i need to do.
I dont want to loose my job.
Thanks
Kumar
As your H-1 has been approved, you have 2 options:
1. File for COS from F-1 to H-1 and submit all the necessary documentation. Once approved, your status would be H-1 and you can start working on H-1.
2. Travel to your home country and get H-1 visa stamped. Once stamped you can enter US on that visa and start working on H-1.
I need your valued suggestion on Visa stamping on my OPT Status, my F1 Visa got expired on Nov 2011 but my 2nd OPT Status of 17 months is still valid up to July2012.I tried applying for H1 but H1 Quota got completed for current year 2011 with in short span of time. I would apply next year April 2012 .
I Have an Emergency to Travel India in the Month of February2012.
Am planning on traveling to neighboring country (Mexico) for Visa stamping on my valid OPT status, what are my chances of Visa getting approved. How safe is it asking for a visa stamping on my Valid OPT status up to July 2012.which is asking for a f1 visa renewal stamp which would be for 5 months.
I don’t think they would reject the stamping just b/c your OPT is valid for another 5 months. Ensure that you carry your OPT payslips and endorse your OPT card for travel.
Hi Saurabh,
I am in the USA from last 7 months on H4 Visa, My Wife has H1B visa, can she apply for my H1B Visa? As it is 7 months now.
Let me know
Thanks
Nitin
Only an employer can apply H-1 for you. Your wife cannot apply H-1 for you.
The premium processing of my husband s H1 B petition is rejected and the visa gets expired in next 10 days .What are the alternate options we can look into.
When is the 797 and I-94 expiring? In next 10 days? If yes, then your options are:
1. File for H-1 transfer to another employer
2. Apply for H-1 extension
My H1 B was filed at USCIS on 18th Nov under premium processing, Even after 4 weeks, till now, I have not received acknowledgement receipt.
Please suggest what can be done ahead.
Same here!! I checked with my office attorney, they said it will take time due to high volume of visas being filed in the last moment. One of my friend whose visa was filed on 11th nov got the receipt on 15th dec.
The 15 days clock for premium processing start after your get the acknowledgement number.
I also filed for pp. my response was sent on nov. 18 and nov. 19 they
Received it, which shows online as well.
I have not received a decision even under pp until today, even after 30 days.
same is with me Anu, Deep & Samar. Even I have not received any notification from USCIS Vermont Center..and my OPT expires in feb 2011. So I am in a bad situation.
Hi Saurabh,
One company has filled my H1B which has under admin processing after my visa interview. Its more than 3 months and no updates as of now.
In between my current company has decided to file L1 visa for me so that I can work in US on my current project.
I just want to know whether H1B case under admin processing will effect my L1 stamping?
Thanks in advance.
Probably not. However, is the work you are planning to do in US eligible for L-1? In other words, will you be working on tools/technology/applications etc which are specific to your employer and are not known commonly outside the employer? If not, then there is a good chance that L-1 will be rejected.
Yes, I will be working on technology very much specific to my company and L1B will be filled against that technology only.
I hope they will not say anything that your H1B is under admin processing with company ‘Y’ so we will not approve your L1B. What do you think?
If L-1 and H-1 employers are different, then that should not impact. Just remain truthful.
Hi Saurabh,
While my H1 was under progress, I was not certain of that getting approved once I got RFE. So to be safe from going out of status (My case was L2-to-H1 and Husband got H1 visa hence was about to go out of status). So I had applied H4 Visa and luckily my H1 got approved. So my attorney has sent H4 Withdrawal application. In general how much time it takes to know the withdrawal status?
Thank you
I am not sure, but I would assume few weeks to 1 month.
My petition got approved on 13-Dec-2011…PP @VSC
Was filled on2-Dec…
Thanks…
Hi Saurabh,
Thanks for helping and answering all the queries. I have one quick question regarding the I – 94 came along with I 797A notice (bottom right side). Do we need to tear that I94 and attached to the one which is already present in the passport( white color)?
Or should I keep that I-94 as it’s?
Regards,
Anil
Regards,
Anil
You can attach them together. They need to be submitted when you leave US. Also, keep a copy of both of them for future references.
i apply for i-129 may-2011
rfe filed Aug.12-2011 now pending
Hi Saurabh,
I have H1B approved under 2009 quota and also got Visa stamping. But i never traveled US under H1 visa. But a year later i came to US with H4 visa.
What are the possible ways i can convert my visa back to H1? Will i fall under quota or quota exemption if i want to convert now?
Want to mention that My employer didnot revoke my H1.
Please advice.
Thanks a lot.
An employer can file cap-exempt H-1 petition for you, along w/ COS. Once this is approved, you can start working on H-1 from the COS approval date.
Hi,
My H1B petition was filed about a month ago in premium processing category.
On USICS website it shows my status as :
“On December 9, 2011, this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was approved and we sent you an e-mail notice”
Kindly let me know what all process is pending before I can go for VISA stamping interview and generally how long will I have to wait till I can fly to US.
Your employer/attorney can send you all the documents required for stamping, you can then schedule the interview and go for visa stamping.
Hi Saurabh,
What will be the time duration for which the visa is issued. Does that depend on the dates mentioned in LCA (Dates of intended employment) OR whether it depends on the date on which my Visa is Approved.
797 term depends upon what employer requests in the I-129 form and what USCIS seems appropriate based on the submitted documents.
Visa is usually approved until the 797 term, unless visa officer determines that the submitted documents support a shorter term.
Hi Saurabh,
I would like to know if the USCIS confirms about receiving the RFE response by email or so?
In case of PP they would send an email update to the lawyer. For regular cases, they don’t send any email update. The online status would change in both scenarios to show that they have received the RFE response.
Thank you for your answer Saurabh 🙂
Hi Alfonso,
Could you please let me know how many days it took for your attorney to get that hard copy from the day of H1 visa approval date (i.e. from approval email date).
Thanks
Hi I was in your position My OPT expired on a monday and that same day got that e-mail you are talking about forwarded by my emploer, however I thought the physical i797 had the I94 attached but by thursday my employer sent me the original i797 and realized it was a I797-B which doesnt allow you to work until you get your visa stamped.!! so I couldnt report time after expiration of opt. I am estimating that it took my employer to get that Origianl I797-B about 3 days I cant know for sure because they are in houston and I am in a different city. I think you need to stamp as soon as possible to me the entire process took a week from the day I made my consular interview appointment. Long story short I lost 2 weeks of work, company stopped payroll activities until I came back. Make sure which I-797 you got ! if it is I797-A (I94 attached) you can keep on working without stamping. If it is I-797-B you need to stop working and get stamping as soon as possible.
Hi Alfonso,
I94 # was mentioned in that email (from your lawyer) or not. Someone told me that if I94 # is mentioned in the email then it means that you are getting COS H1 and you don’t have to go to consulate.
Thanks
It was metioned but it said this:
The Vermont Service Center has approved the following
I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker
that had been filed under the Premium Processing Service:
Receipt Number: EACXXXXXXX
Petitioner: XXXXXXXX
Beneficiary: XXXXXXXX XXXXXX
DOB: XX/XX/XX
Classification: H1B
Starting Validity Date: 11/28/11
Ending Validity Date: 10/31/14
Consulate notified (if applicable): CIUDAD JUAREZ
I-94 # (if applicable): 12999706620
The form I-797 Approval Notice will follow in the mail.
But it didnt had the I-94. I obtained my I-94 until I cross the POE and got a different number, hope that helps! GL
In my case, Consulate notified (if applicable): —– .No consulate means COS.
Also, It is already more than 10 calender days, I am waiting for original ( I received email 10 days back).
Thanks,
RK
IMO if it doesnt have Consulate specified was done with COS. Becuase you specify consultate on I-129 when filling it it Without COS.
10 days is too long your employer or attorney should have already got the I797. Have your attorney contact USCIS.
However if it was done w/COS you dont nessesarily need hard copy of I797 to work, but make sure you get it and includes I94.
GL
hey Alfonso,
My Name is rocky….yesterday i got my H1b visa approved…my case is very similar to yours…..my approval notice says as below
DOB: XX/XX/XX
Classification: H1B
Starting Validity Date: 12/12/11
Ending Validity Date: xx/xx/14
Consulate notified (if applicable): Kathmandu
I-94 # (if applicable): xxxxxxxxxxx (My old i-94 no is listed on the approval email notice).
Does this mean that i will have to go back to my Country for H1b stamping??? Please let me know….Because in that case i would like to go back immediately and get my Visa stamped.
Ey Rocky
I believe that it all depends if the I-129 petition was filed w or w/o change of status. I am not sure if you can determine if you will be granted COS by reading the confirmation e-mail. I think the best thing to do is to let your attorney or employer know that you need to know if what they got was an I797-A or I797-B.
If you got a copy of your I-129 check PART 2 Number 4 and see what letter was checked. I believe that if they checked a. you would have to go to stamped before working. That is what my company checked.
It looks you receive same confirmation e-mail as I did. So just be prepared to make traveling plans as soon as possible and arrangement with your employer as far as stopping payroll activities until you get your visa stamped.
Now the good thing here in Juarez Consulate is that Appointments are available within 1 or two days, and the visa will have a issued date of the interview date and they ship it within 4 days so you loose at the most 1 week of work. Now that I came back (Today). My employer put days from the issued date till today under VACATION and got those paid.
Hope that helps.
Your response was definitely helpful…..however they applied my H1b with COS request here and they didn’t request for consulate processing. So i am assuming i will just have to wait to see if i receive 797-A or 797-B.
I think that would be your best bet. Just keep in contact with attorney or employer so that as soon as they get the original I-797 have them scan you a copy so you can start making plans to leave for stamping (if I797-B is issued). However do not leave without original copy (I almost did), because you would need it at Consulate.
I am waiting for my H1B visa to come in PP and it is already overdue. I am planning to travel to India in December. If the visa comes while I am in India, how difficult would it be to get it stamped? Will it be taking a chance since they might not stamp it easily without salary slips?
If your 797 petition is overdue (based on date on which USCIS received and acknowledged PP request), then your employer/attorney should call USCIS and ask for an update. Chance of your success would depend upon your specific case, employer’s credentials and proposed H-1 job. Salary slips may or may not be required depending upon what your current status is. What’s your current visa status in US?
My status is H4. The lawyer had already called on the 17th day and they said they will process it that day. Now its about 22 days and the lawyer says its best not to pester USCIS with calls. What do you suggest?
Well USCIS is not keeping their end of contract by not adjudicating the petition within 15 calendar days. IMO, they should call USCIS and ask for an update.
saurabh
I just received my h1 b visa however i noticed that it has an expiration date of one year only 7 dec 2012 and below there is domething that says PED 31OCT2014….. Which is the total 3 years what does this means … At the POE THEY gave me an i94 until the expiration date 7 dec 2012…. WAS the expiration date a mistake stamped on mi visa? All my paper work application… Including i797b had a period of 3 yrs … Until 31 oct 2014 …. Thankssss alot.
Usually they give out H-1 visa for same duration as 797. You would get I-94 on the basis of 797, which is 3 years. However, next time you travel out of US, you may have to go for H-1 stamping again (if leaving after Dec 7, 2012).
ok thank you saurabh, why did they do that. Was it a mistake or was it done intentionally to make me paying the stamping again? does stamping expiration date vary from country to country maybe?? It sucks !! Freaking consuls
There are several theories:
– They want to evaluate your eligibility every time you leave US, so they issue it for minimum period (1 year)
– It was a mistake
– Officer saw something that made him make that determination
– They are running short on money, and everytime you go for an interview, it means more money for the consulate
– etc
Thank you !
I asked a friend who also lives here and is from Mexico, and she told me hers is the same. I guess they want us to stamp every year since people here cross back and forth very often. At the Consulate they told her that she would just have to stamp again before expiring but that she can just show the I-797 from petiton. She didnt have to file any new I-129 or anything like it.
Again
Thanks
Aug 4, 2011 – USCIS got my H1b Package.. and my case is still in Initial Process !!!!!.
What is causing this delay ??? I am really frustrated 🙁
They can at time take 6 months or even more. There is not much you can do except to upgrade it to PP.
Hi Saurabh,
My H1-B was applied through premium processing. My employer says that the packet reached USCIS on November 22nd, 2012 at 12:30pm (per Fedex trkg). We still have not received a receipt date as of day 12/12/2011. Without a receipt number how do we check the status?
Thanks for your help,
Ravi
Your attorney should call USCIS and ask for an update. They should have received the receipt number by now.
Saurabh, I think there is some delay in giving out the receipt number. My visa was filed on 18th Nov and I am yet to receive the receipt number. I checked with other people in my company. There are people with 11th as filing date are yet to receive the receipt number. You will also find couple of comments out here with delayed acknowledgement mail.
Hi Saurabh,
My employer has filed H1B PP on Nov 1st 2011.I have been checking my case status since then and it is still under “Intial Review”. Any thoughts on it , should i be asking my attorney to check with USCIS or should I be doign anything else?
I keep following your website , I do seriously appreciate your help to all the H1B aspirants like me.
Are you sure your petition was filed as PP? It should have been processed by now. If your employer is sure that it has been filed w/ PP, then they should call USCIS and ask for an update.
Saurabh,
I applied for H1 petition (PP) with COS. It is approved and my lawyer received an email regarding this. He forwarded that email to me. I didn’t find any attachment like 797 document w/ new I-94 . In the body text of the email I-94 # is mentioned. It is usual or I was supposed to get attachment of 797 document w/ new I-94 .
It is also mentioned that “Please note that this e-mail message is being sent as a courtesy and cannot be used as evidence of nonimmigrant status. Nor can this message be used as evidence to procure a nonimmigrant visa.”
Can I continuing working based on this email or I have to wait for physical copy of 797 ( I am working on OPT which will expire on monday).
Thanks,
RK
797 comes in postal mail and not as an attachment to the email.
IMO, you can continue working on H-1 from the approval date mentioned in the email.
I have a similar case where my I 94 # is mentioned on the H1B approval notice . However it says Consulate notified- kathmandu. It says the start date as 12/12/2011 and end date is some time in year 2014. I am not sure if i need to go back for stamping or i can start working. How would i know if they will send me the I-94 attached. How would i know if my COS has been approved along with the H1B?
Only the physical copy of 797 can provide surety whether COS was approved or not. It should be received within 1-2 weeks and will either have an I-94 attached or not.
Hi Saurabh,
My case has gone to admin processing after visa interview. They haven’t given me any slip just told me that they want to do some more investigation regarding my case. Now its more than 3 months and whenever I mail them they reply that your case is still under admin processing and if US consulate need anything they will contact me. Its very frustrating. Can anything be done from my side?
Thanks in advance.
Unfortunately no. If you were previously working in US and came to India for stamping, then you can contact your US senator and ask him/her for help. At times, that helps.
Hi Saurabh,
I have received my H1B receipt number on Aug-30th . Its a regular process. Still the status is in “Initial Review” in USCIS. Vermont Service Center. Can you let me know why this is getting delayed?
Thanks,
Suganya
At times, it can even take up to 6 months (or more) for them to get processed.
Hi Suganya,
My petition was filed on 18th Oct and my status is also still initial review. Pls keep me updated with your process.
Are you planning to update it to premium processing? If yes pls let me know how you are going about it.
All,
If anyone else’s petition was also filed during same time with normal processing.. pls update your petition status. Let us help each other with the petition status updates.
Thanks,
Anil Gupta
Hi Anil Gupta,
Any updates on your status ? Mine is still in “Initial review” . I am not going to apply for Premium process. Are you planning to upgrade your processing?
Please keep update me on your status.
Thanks,
-Suganya
Iam applied in sep1, still it is showing initial review
Hi Venkat,
Any updates on your H1B visa Status ? Please do update us .
Suganya
I have also Receipt received on 30th Aug. But still displaying staus as “Initial Review”.
Hey Saurabh, Can we expect the Prtition will get approved in month of Jan? as currently Aug 1st week receipt notice people intws are going on?
Yes, I think they would get processed in Jan.
Hi Saurabh,
My I-129 petition was applied on Aug 25th, last week it was upgraded to premimum processing.
In Online untill yesterday case status was showing as I-129 petition on Dec05 upgraded to Premimum processing and in intial review.
Today online case status has changed from intial review to Acceptance and its shows
below message
“On December 9, 2011, we received I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER and we e-mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case”.
Does is mean they have accepted my Premimum processing on dec09 ? or it is showing wrong information.
I am not sure. I think it would still be considered as Dec 5, based on previous status update.
Hi Saurabh,
My I-129 petition got approved on Dec5th and the online status moved from ‘Acceptance’ to ‘Post Decision Activity’.
Again on Dec 9th, the online status moved from ‘Post Decision Activity’ to ‘Decision’ (the previous step)
Any idea, why this would happen?
Description of the status (From USCIS)
Decision
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.
Post Decision Activity
For approved applications/petitions, post-decision activity may include USCIS sending notification of the approved application/petition to the National Visa Center or the Department of State. For denied applications/petitions, post-decision activity may include the processing of an appeal and/or motions to reopen or reconsider and revocations.
From your perspective, it doesn’t matter. Once it has been approved, whether it in Decision status or Post Decision, doesn’t directly impact you. Your employer will receive the physical approval notice within 1-2 weeks.
anybody has this experience? my attorney sent my H1-b petition(no-cap) using PP last week. and we got the email receipt no. on Tuesday Dec 6, 2011. the uscis sent email my attorney that the petition was approved on Friday December 9, 2011. At the same time, I checked the on-line status on friday December 9 and it said approved.
However, I checked the on-line status this morning, it says acceptance of notice again. what is happening with the on-line status check?
The processing center is California.
Thanks
A few times, online status is not the most reliable status. This can happen due to human error or a technical glitch. Next week, your attorney can call USCIS and check the actual status. If it has been approved, attorney would receive the physical copy within 1-2 weeks.
Hi Saurabh,
For my case H1B extension regular was fille don 19-Sept-2011. Case upgraded to premium on 2-Dec-2011. On USCIS website it was showing that ‘We reveived request for premium processon on 2-Dec-2011…..’. with status as ‘Initial Review’.
Now, on 9-Dec-2011, USCIS web site its showing that on 9-Dec-2011, they have received request for I29…..(no mention of premium ) …And status as ‘Acceptance’ which is backwards….
Now why the change of dates? And why its not showing premium processing?
I am really worried…..please help…..
Hi Saurabh,
Please reply …..its vert critical….else I have to go to India…
please reply…..thanks….
For my case H1B extension regular was fille don 19-Sept-2011. Case upgraded to premium on 2-Dec-2011. On USCIS website it was showing that ‘We reveived request for premium processon on 2-Dec-2011…..’. with status as ‘Initial Review’.
Now, on 9-Dec-2011, USCIS web site its showing that on 9-Dec-2011, they have received request for I29…..(no mention of premium ) …And status as ‘Acceptance’ which is backwards….
Now why the change of dates? And why its not showing premium processing?
I am really worried…..please help…..
At times, the status flips around a lot when filing w/ PP. I think they would still treat Dec 2 as the date when 15 calendar day window starts. If your petition doesn’t get processed by Dec 17 (that’s when 15 day window expires), your employer/attorney should call USCIS and follow-up.
Thanks Saurabh….for replying…. thanks…
Will keep you posted with the updates….
Today, the online status is back to decision again. I guess there was a glitch this weekend.
Thanks cchoust….for replying…
But mine is still showing 9-Dec……instead of 2-Dec…..
and mine is at VSC…..
Any body….who has same scenario…..and now on USCIS website it showing correctly..plz reply….
Thanks…
HI saurabh
Need your thoughts on my issue…
1. One company filed H1 for my wife ( who is on H4) and sent the application to USCIS before the cap end date
2. I know that because they sent me UPS tracking number and it reached before the cap end date.
3. After 3 weeks when i started asking the employer for the receipt…..he started saying that there is something missing..and the next day he mails me that my application is sent back with out any reason.
Can this ever happen that USCIS sends back the application with out any reason even if the application reaches them before the cap end date
If USCIS returns the package, they mention the reason as well. Did you pay anything to the employer for the filing?
Hi Saurabh
I paid $1500 to them. couple of days back when i asked them they mentioned that the cheque is encashed..when i started asking for receipt number , He sent me the mail yesterday…that my application is returned….They dont know the reason. and also told me that they sent them the package in time.(proof is UPS tracking number) …
is the employer hiding anything? whether they did not submit in time? then how did they give me UPS tracking number?
Can i take any action against them? I am not worried about $1500 but entire year got wasted… If I ask them the returned package from USCIS they wont show… How do I know what exactly happened?
Also will I be able to contact USCIS directly regarding this application for the reason?
They seem to flip-flopping. If the check got cashed then that means USCIS would have generated a receipt number and will not return the package stating missing check. They probably don’t want to return your money, and that’s why making up all the stories.
You can try to contact USCIS and see if they can help. I don’t think you can still make through this year’s quota, but you can try to get your money back. See online if there are others w/ similar experience as yours w/ the company.
Hi – I have a quick question. My H1-B was filed on November 11, 2011 but i have not received an acknowledgment number till date (December 10,2011). What could be the reason behind taking so long? Is there any way to find the status of my application?
Thanks,
Rittwika
Ask your employer/attorney to call USCIS and check the status.
Hi Saurabh, I have 2 queries here:
1)My case was upgraded to premium processing on the 6th of dec and on 9th dec,I received a trigger mail which shows my status on USCIS has moved back to ‘Acceptance’ , earlier it was in ‘Initial Review’ stage from last 2.5 months. After upgrading to PP, how could it move back to ‘Acceptance’ stage?
2)And from which date the count of 15 calendar days begin? From 6th dec ( when my case was upgraded to PP ) or from 9th dec (when it has moved to ‘acceptance’ stage)??? Please help!
1. When upgrading to PP, online status flips a lot and at times goes back from Initial Review to Acceptance. There is nothing to worry about it, and USCIS will adjudicate it within 15 calendar days.
2. 15 calendar day will be counted from the day USCIS upgraded your petition to PP, which looks like Dec 9th. Was there any status update that USCIS has received your request to upgrade to premium processing etc …
Thanks a ton for the quick reply Saurabh..There was no update on USCIS regarding my case being upgraded to PP.. But my employer had filed for PP on 6th dec, is there any status update that USCIS does after the case being upgraded to PP?
They should post something like this “Your Request for Premium Processing Service for your I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER was received on xxxxx. We mailed you a receipt with information about processing. We will mail you a decision as soon as processing is complete.”
Check w/ the employer is they have received any email about the upgrade. Also ask them if the checks have been cashed.
Thanks Saurabh..will check with my employer on any such update.
I was working on a consultant earlier and my client has offered Full time position and i opted for that. My consultants got angry and terminated me on 31st oct. My labor was filed on nov 4th, my H1 was revoked from my old employer on Nov 8th(which i came to know thru RFE), new company applied for H1 on Nov 16th and got the receipt next day. I got the RFE on Nov 23rd and response was sent nov 29th, website shows response review since nov 30th. When will they make the decision for premium processing.
They should adjudicate it by Dec 15th (15 calendar day window starts from Nov 30)
hi saurabh,
my H1b premium process parcel rejected twice form vermont center. as per them reason is ” not found checks with application”.same reasone twice. but my employer sent properly with checks also..my employer sent parcel again with proper file n checks on 5 dec 2011, USCIS received it on 6 dec 2011.but still we didn’t receive receipt number.i called USCIS on 8 dec 2011 for parcel but they told they haven’t any information about new parcel..what should we have to do now?is it true they didnt found checks with application twice last time?
i am reallly confuse what should i have to do?
I don’t know why USCIS didn’t find the checks. Are you sure your employer is not playing games w/ you by doing such gimmicks?
no…employer is not playing any game..because he sent me rejection notice for both time..m still waiting for receipt number..
What I meant to ask was whether you are sure the employer is not playing games by not submitting the checks intentionally? I haven’t seen USCIS making such a mistake and that too twice.
I already got my H-1B Visa approved at the consulate. This was the experience at the US Consulate in Juarez Mexico in case someone decides to go there for stamping. I just wanted to post how the interview since I have learned a lot from this website. If you are not from mexico you need proof of legal status in mexico. If by any chance you will be coming here for stamping let me know so I can help further in detail.
There are two appointments you need to make
1. CAS (where they only take your finger prints and photo)
2. US Consulate (next day)
I was able to call on moday and schedule my appointments for wednesday and thursday.
1. Dress in a suit ( it will make you stand up from the crwod and look like a professional)
2. Do take your original I-797b, passport, job offer letter and confirmation of appmnt.
3. Now I was really anxious about the questions, but it went very smooth…
US Consul: Good morning (in spanish)
ME: Good morning (in spanish)
US Consul: Is this the first time you request an H-1B? (spanish)
ME: Yes (Spanish)
US Consul: You speak English? (spanish)
ME: Yes sir
US Consul: so what is the company youll work for
ME: XX Company
US Consul: In El Paso TX uh??
ME : yes sir
US Consul:Where did you graduated from ?
ME: UTEP
US Consul:Do you have your job offer letter?
ME: Yes
US Consul:Can I see it ?
ME: Definately sir
US Consul: Do you know what you would be doing there?
ME: yes sir Structural Analyisis… blah blah blah ( I practice this part the night before)
(at this point the consul made a face like …cool deal.. and smile )
US Consul: did you have a previous visa?
ME: yes sir an F-1 Visa
US Consul:Is it still valid?
ME: no sir it has already expired (I think it was a trick question since he probably knew my status had expired but maybe just testing me)
US Consul: married ?
ME: No
US Consul: Do you have any kids?
ME: no sir
US Consul: Already I am approving your visa you will be getting it within 2 to 3 days but in some instances can take up to one week.
ME: Thank you sir Happy hollidays.
US Consul: you too.
Hope this helps somebody.
Please help me to answer following RFE Questions :
Just guide me what to include in each of the topics listed
In House-Employment
· Description of Project
· Copy of relevant portions of valid contracts, statements of work, work orders, service agreements and letters between you and the authorized officials of the ultimate end-client companies to whom the end product or services worked on by the beneficiary will be delivered;
· Copy of position description or any other documentation that describes the skills required to perform the job offered, the tools needed to perform the job, the product to be developed or the services to be provided, the method of payment whether the work to be performed is part of your regular business, the provision of employee benefits, and the tax treatment of the beneficiary by you;
· Signed copies of your two or three most recently filed Federal income tax returns to include all required schedules and statements;
· Copies of company brochures, pamphlets, Internet website, or any other printed work published by which outlines, in detail, the products or services provided by your company;
· Copies of critical reviews of your software in trade journals that describes the purpose of the software, its cost, and its ranking among similarly produced software;
· Copy of the marketing analysis for your final software product; and/or
· Copy of cost analysis for your software product.
It’s an in-house project. They want to know what you will be doing on this in-house project and how that will generate revenue for the company. If you are working for a consulting company, then in-house project is a sham. Will you be really working on this, or will you be working for a client on a project?
I am working on in house project of a company not a consulting firm.
Then the employer should show how your services is going to earn them revenue by submitting all those documents.
Hi Saurabh,
My Employer submitted my H1B petition on 17-Nov-2011 that reached USCIS on 18-Nov, but 3 weeks after also my employer hasn’t received the receipt.
Is there anyway how we can check if the petition was submitted and they will be sending the receipt?
Ankit
Ask your employer/attorney to call USCIS and ask for an update.
Hi Ankit – I am in a similar situation…any luck with your receipt number? If yes, how did you find it? Pls let me know.
Thanks.
Rittwika,
My employer asked to wait for some more time as USCIS recently received thousands of applications , so may take some time.
Will post when I receive the receipt. You also keep updating about your case.
Regards
I got the receipt number : )…Did you receive yours?
Hi Saurabh,
My employer filed for H1B visa premium processing with USCIS on Nov 19th but till date i havent received the receipt number or any communication with reference to the same. Is there a chance that my application did not go through FY 2012 quota?
If petition reached USCIS on or before Nov 22, you should be considered to have made through the quota. Check w/ employer as to when it reached USCIS. If it reached before quota was reached, then they should call USCIS and ask for an update.
Hi Saurabh,
I forgot to add that i previously held an approved H1B petition from USCIS . SO i was wondering whether i will be considered under CAP exempt?
i forgot to add that this was from a different employer.
Yes, you will be considered cap-exempt and you are not impacted by FY-12 quota (provided your employer filed it as cap-exempt).
If you haven’t received the receipt notice yet, ask the employer to call USCIS and check.
My H1B was filled in premium processing. I received an RFE and the response to which was filed on Nov 18th in Califorina Center. The website reflects this. However, the status hasn’t changed yet even though it has been more than 15 calendar days.
Questions:
1) Does RFE response in Premium Processing also follow the 15 calendar day rule ?
2) What does past experience/ data show – if USCIS takes so long to process does it mean a possible denial? The case status shows Nov 19th as last updated date.
Thanks! I am very very anxious to know the outcome.
1. Yes. They should process it within 15 days of acknowledging receiving the response.
2. I have seen couple of recent instances where petition wasn’t adjudicated within 15 days. Calling USCIS helped in one of the instance. Your employer/attorney can also call USCIS and ask for an update.
Thanks! The attorney called on Dec 5th and USCIS said they will decide that same day. However we haven’t got any email from them or any update on the status online. The LUD still shows Nov 19th! Any thoughts on this situation?
I don’t think there will be a long delay, but they might delay it for few more days. However, as you (or employer) has paid for PP, you are entitled for 15 day processing.
Your attorney can call them again tomorrow, and may ask for an update and also refund.
Do you know if the RFE response takes so long in PP, is it more likely to be an acceptance or denial?
Usually they are pretty good about the 15 calendar day window. Also, I don’t think there is any correlation b/w delay and outcome of petition.
The attorney has been calling for a few days now and they say that they are aware of the delay. They mentioned they are about to complete the processing. Do you have any inputs on why it would take this long and what would the outcome be?
I can’t think of reasons for delay except they are loaded w/ lots of PP petitions. But if they are taking more than 15 calendar days, then they should refund the $1225 PP fees.
I had also applied for h1b through another company in June 2011. That was not in PP and is still in the initial review stage. Do you think that might interfere with the processin of this case?
No, it should impact this processing.
Do you mean it will impact or it will not?
Sorry, I meant to say it will NOT impact the processing.
Do you think the website is up to date usually? The last update date still shows nov 19! What is the recent trend? Thanks a lot for answering so many questions.
The lawyer spoke to USCIS and they said that this case is delayed, and currently with the supervisor reviewing the case. They are inquiring about some issue with this case but could not tell us what that is.
Do you have any clue about what it could be?
I don’t know what the reason could be.
Guys,
My H1 was files in August and still now the status shows initial review (Vermont center), Is there any one waiting like me who applied around the same time?
Thanks
Ben
Applied under regular quota…not PP
One more question, does this delay mean I am on PFE ?How do one know if you are on PFE asking for documents?
When did you apply? Mine is applied on Aug 3 and still in initial review. 🙁
Applied on aug 22…..as from the spread sheet here http://redbus2us.com/h1b-visa-2012-cap-count-updates-uscis/
looks like there are delays! You can update the spread sheet too
At times the processing can take up to 6 months, and in worst case even longer. Delay doesn’t necessarily means rejection or RFE.
Hi,
My H1B filed on 18 Nov 2011 and case status showing RFE from 2nd Dec. 2011.
I didn’t get any response from employer/attorney. What to do?
Thanks & Regards,
Anand
My case is PP.
I too got RFE on 6th December and it has been 3 days the RFE thing has not arrived at the attorney’s office. I think your employer/attorney should call up USCIS so that they can either fax or email you the RFE details which my attorney did yesterday and he is going to get email today.
Has your employer/attorney received the RFE details? They should receive it within 1-2 weeks.
My case still showing RFE since 1st December 2011. Employer says followup in January 2011. Is it possible denial?
Hi,
Yes i also received the receipt number on Aug-30th and still the status in USCIS is “Initial review”. Vermont Center
Hi All,
Just wanted to share my info.
1. H1 applied on July 17th under general
2. Upgraded to PP on Oct 6th
3. Got RFE on Oct 11th
4. RFE supporting docs submitted on Nov 28th
5. Petition Approved on Dec 7th
6. California Center
Hope this can help to assess your timelines.
My petition was received by the uscis on the 23rd of Nov. and we are waiting now for a response! How long does it take to get the petition back if it is not accepted? We haven’t gotten anything back yet! Is there any chance that it may went through?
Thank You!
It may take 1-2 weeks for the petition to be received back. I read some posts regarding people receiving their packages back (they reached USCIS on Nov 23). So remaining may be getting returned now.
My H1 Visa was filed with UCIS on 18th November. I haven’t received any acknowledgement from UCIS. Couple of weeks after filing, I have received a mail from my employer stating that your visa has been upgraded for premium processing. Here are couple of questions –
How long it takes to get the acknowledgement number ?
Can my visa be upgraded for PP before i receive the acknowledgement number?
Thanks
Usually it takes 1-2 weeks to received the receipt number. It is sent out to the employer/attorney. Did you check w/ them if they have received it?
One needs receipt number when putting in the request to upgrade to PP. I am not sure how your employer did it (may be they referred to the company name and your name to identify your file or may be the LCA, not sure).