Many of you who have applied for H1B Visa for fiscal year 2014 might be wondering regarding the H1B Visa processing times. Some common questions are like below:
- What is USCIS Regular Processing time for H1B Visa 2014 petitions ?
- Is there any SLA for USCIS to process the H1B Visa 2014 petitions ?
- What is the processing time for H1B petitions filed under Premium processing ?
- How has USCIS done historically with H1B Processing Times ?
- Where and How can I look at the average processing times for H1B petitions ?
Let me take some time to address some of the above most commonly asked questions around H1B Visa petitions processing times and how USCIS has done in the past. If you have already received a case number for your H1B petition, you can read this article: Understanding H1B Visa Case Number, Track Status
What is USCIS Processing time for H1B 2014 petitions filed under Regular Processing ?
Well, the typical adjudication (decision making) time for H1B visa petitions filed under regular processing by USCIS can range anywhere from 2 months to 6 months. There are cases where the decision was mailed by USCIS in less than 2 months and there are cases where USCIS took much longer than 6 months too. Every H1B case is different and the time taken depends on various facts and factors tied with a petition…
Is there any set SLA for USCIS to process petitions filed under H1B 2014 Regular processing ?
There is NO set SLA for USCIS that stipulates them to adjudicate a H1B petitions filed under regular processing within certain amount of time. So, you would just have to wait for USCIS, there is nothing you can do. Unlike, USCIS has SLA for premium processing H1B petitions, but it comes with a cost.
How long will USCIS take for H1B Visa 2014 Premium Processing petitions ?
USCIS has a standard 15 calendar days SLA for premium processing petitions. Typically, it starts from the day USCIS receives the petition and they issue a case number. But for FY 2014, due to expected high volumes they have pushed the premium processing clock for H1B petitions to start from April 15th. So, you can expect a response from USCIS on your case by April 30th. It can be a decision or an RFE, if something was missing. Read article: H1B Visa Statuses – Approval, RFE, Denial
How has USCIS done historically with H1B petitions processing times ?
Again, as mentioned above, it has varied from 2 to 6 months. The current national average for processing times that USCIS publishes on their website is about 2 months and it seems to be varying depending on how busy USCIS gets with processing at a particular time. You have to remember that the reason processing times can vary a lot is because USCIS constantly receives other H1B petitions that are not part of FY 2014 quota, which are extensions and change of employers, cap-exempt petitions, etc. that they would have to process as well. If some of these mentioned are filed under premium processing, the priority changes from USCIS perspective.
Where can I look at USCIS processing times for H1B petitions ?
USCIS publishes the processing times on their website. The only trick is that that, you have to watch for date that processing times correspond to…All you need to do is select the processing center and it will show the approximate processing times. You can check at here at USCIS website
You can check out some of the processing times at our H1B Visa Tracker. Don’t forget to add your case.
What has been your experience with USCIS processing times ? How long did it take ?
Hi Everyone,
I have been part of this forum for the past 4 months and been through the various interesting comments posted by its members. My company attorney informed me couple days back that my application has been selected in the H1B lottery process (RQ/RP/VSC).
My sincere thanks to Saurabh and others for posting useful information related to H1B process as part of this website. Thanks again, Ganesh.
Congrats Ganesh.
Could you please give us few more info which may be helpful for lot us still waiting for the lottery results?
Your employer communicated to you about the selection in lottery by checking the check en-cashed status or receipt number communication from uscis? On which date this communication happened?
Hi Curious,
The company attorney mentioned that they have received the receipt number from USCIS. The receipt date happens to be on the 1st week of May. I do not have the receipt number with me yet.
Hope this helps. Thanks.
Hello, Can any one help me with the information that whether we need to wait for the lottery result or look for other alternatives. I work for an Indian MNC, my employer still dont have information about my application….worried alot
Assuming your employer filed H1B and they did not get the packet yet, you still have hopes. Wait for the packet to be returned or receipt number which should happen soon now
@ABC : Even I am getting the same message that case can not be found at this time. Please check receipt number or try after sometime.
Really worried what would have happened with my application.
Please let me know if anyone has clue on this.
Saurabh or anyone knows why the USCIS site says case cannot be found at this time?
H1Applicant,
If you were able to see the status earlier but not now, then it may be a technical error.
Saurabh, since the time I got the receipt number I have been getting case not found at this time message. Please let me know if there is anyway to figure out what would have happened or why is it happening .
Hey does anyone know what happens after getting this message – ” At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.”
If its a technical error, how long does it approximately take to change? Any one who called this NCSC number ?
Not selected in lottery . just now got email from my lawyer.
My plan B is to go back to India and have fun (super fun) 🙂
thanks to this forum for helping me get through pain of waiting.
no more pain now.
@Not Selected,
Good luck to you. You can apply H1B next year if your company wants to help. You do not need to be in the US to apply for H1B.
My status changed today from initial review clock restarted to clock stopped. Its been 4 hours and the status dint change to approval. Anybody in the same situation and heard anything about this? Please reply. I am very much tensed.
If the status doesn’t change, does it mean its rejected? please reply if anyone has any idea about this.
your status will be updated in 24 hrs. Do not worry, I think its approved.
Best of luck!
for most of the cases i have seen the status got updated to ‘Approved’ the same day. My status changed to clock stopped around 2pm est today and there is no change since then. Do you know anyone who are in same situation like me and got approval ?
well, the day is not over yet!
did u get any update?
RFE: Did you get any update?
Dude dont panic, u vil know by tomorrow….keep calm and carry on
Guys, where are you seeing these status of the receipt number. Please let me know.
RFE,
Mine is status is also on Initial review since yesterday. Did you received approval after waiting or an RFE? how many working days it took to change to next status?
So happy my h1b with COS has been approved. Good luck all.
PP or RP ? which center ?
Guys, where are you seeing these status of the receipt number. Please let me know.
Dear Saurbah,
Are you male or female. Not from India so dont know what your name mean.
I ask because I imagine u as female. So I would like to know.
Thanks, and sorry for every one as this question is not related to any thing at all.
strange question!,
Just when I thought I have seen all possible questions on the forum, you trump me w/ this one.
Sorry to shatter your dreams, but I am a male 🙂
Saurabh,
for all you know ‘strange question!’ may be a female (who is into females) and expected you to be a female.
@to, you can add me to that list too… 😀
Just lightening the mood here.
XYZ,
That’s a bummer 🙁 I was about to ask a/s/l … Don’t know if this lingo is still in use b/c it has been years since I did online anonymous chatting 🙂 …
Good one Saurabh :)…still waiting for the good news about the approval my employer says will share the recipt details once he has the final verdict for everyone !!!
Age/sex/language right omg It was 2004-5 and it was yahoo messenger ..purple b white window…
Don’t know how but got some personnel Fren requests from people specifying that they kind if followed me here …was kind of going rofl..ing thinking about this!!! Can’t believe pple are so deprived of frens!! I know it’s a scary topic to dig deep..
Iamonh4-h1 approval awaited,
Consider those as “fan” requests 😛
Since I started helping out people online w/ H-1 queries, there is only 1 person I added as a friend and he turned out to be a good one. Actually our wives are also good friends now. So not all “fans” are creepy but its better to err on the side of caution 🙂
I have tried my best not to leave enough breadcrumbs that could lead to me outside redbus but who knows 🙂 Few people that I know are on redbus, but they don’t know that its me who is responding to their queries …
Saurabh …you are so witty.. very few ppl have that art…..Where is Like button..
ROFL,
Thanks … In real life I am more of a *PJ person 🙂
*Poor Joke
Hey Saurabh,
Finally after all the tension, some light moments. PJ is even my favorite. I really like the loooong PJs which have a very stupid ending. I still vividly remember posting one such joke on a channel in office, and ppl cursing me from all directions.
ASL, that was one hot jargon looooooong time back. Just wondering do those channels still exist today?
Crap,
It was Orkut scraps some years ago and now it’s all about Facebook. Haven’t used BBM to know if it can also be one of such mediums.
May be I should create a new page “Water Cooler” for all the lighter discussion. All the other pages are full of serious conversations.
LOL 🙂
Lol What list would that be? the a/s/l users list from long before? 🙂
It would be quite something to know that a couple had hit it off from one of these forums and are now together in the offline real world. ^_^ Cheers!
You are being added to the list of perverts.
Sourbah does look like girls name.
At this time..are people only receiving rejections or did someone get the receipt number as well??
As per the last update from my employer..last week..my decision was still pending from USCIS.
Please help and provide info.
I just got an email from my lawyer saying she got my package back.
What this experience made me realize was a questions of why I want this and wether I really want this.
I got to think about plan B, and actually now i’m glad I didn’t get H1B because I realized my plan B was what I wanted to do all along, and will benefit me more in the future.
I’m a firm believer of “everything happens for a reason” and being able to find a different solution when you are faced with a challenge will help you become a stronger individual for you and your future.
Thank you guys for updates and news, this place was very helpful.
If there’s a will, there is a way. I’m not really use to my country because I lived half of my life in the states, so going back to my country is like going back to a semi – foreign country. But fearing and being sad wont do anything. I have to find solutions and face my fears.
=) good luck to all of you and please don’t be too depressed.
Tats bad man…..wat is your plan B? and where are you from?… if you stayed in US for so long y dint u apply for GC……am just curious ……anyways gud luck…..keep calm and carry on
GC kya jhaad pay ugta hai?
I’m from korea,
I graduated last year with a design degree, I don’t have much experience so I highly doubt my firm will sponsor me for greencard.
My plan B is going to grad school, not for design but for marketing now.
and by getting my masters when i get my greencard in the future it will be a little faster.
It’s too late for me to apply for grads schools now obviously, so I gotta find some other way, probably try to intern in korea. But my korean isn’t that fluent especially the terms I use in my field…
I know some people here have so much more responsibilities than me, as I am still young.
And I feel great sadness to those who didn’t get the visa.
good luck all of you.
Yo,
It is always refreshing to see encouraging, responsible and mature messages once in a while. Good luck w/ your next endeavors.
Hi All,
Can anyone explane this to me because my lawyer is not responding AT ALL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I applied for my wife for COS from f2 to h4. her status on USCIS website is
“your notice I539, APPLICATION TO EXTEND OR CHANGE NONIMMIGRANT STATUS was processed and mailed to the address on record. If you have not received it within 30 days of May 3, 2013, contact customer service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move while your case is pending, please call our customer service center at 1-800-375-5283.”
does her application get approved ?? and what about mine as my status is still RFE from May 1st. and till now to RFE letter.
Thanks.
Dear ihab,
Since you got your receipt number, you can ask USCIS direclty.
Good luck !
Ihab,
Seems like USCIS jumped the gun on this one. Her COS should not be approved until your H-1 COS has been approved. If your status is not approved and hers is, then you need to be on top of it. Follow-up w/ attorney and let him know about this issue.
You cannot call USCIS directly as they respond only to employers and attorneys. Was wife’s application filed by you or attorney?
to Saurabh:
Yes my wife’s application was filed by the attorney. But the online case did not say it is approved it just said a decision has been made. And is it a mistake by the USCIS or what is is ?? I am for my RFE letter since May 9th. and my attorney said nothing received!!
One more thing: i called the USCIS today and i asked about the h4 status. they told me it was mailed to your address and returned. And customer rep confirm my home address but he said it was returned. I am worried now about it. :S
Ihab,
Ohh it says processed and not approved. Can’t say for sure what’s the final decision w/ it.
Can you ask USCIS to send it again to your address. Did the person mention what kind of notice it was?
my package got returned…….bad luck……
My package got returned today……bad luck….have to think about other
My status changed from Initial Review to
At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.
What does that mean?
ABC,
May be a technical error, has happened to others in the past recently. Check after some time or some days. If it persists then ask your employer/attorney to follow-up w/ USCIS.
@ABC
I got the same comment. did u get any info?
Hi,
My employer has received acknowledgement from USCIS and got my receipt no too. When i tried to check the the status of my H-1B it is saying “your case cannot be found at this time in My Case Status”. What does this mean?? Please help..I’m worried!!
it could be bcoz of some technical issues in their website, also make sure you search with the complete receipt no 🙂
try by removing “-” from the number. just WACfollowed by number..
hi .. I got my receipt number.
I have asked my employer to upgrade to premium. After 2 days he responded saying premium processing check has been deposited at Attorney.
How much time it takes attorney to process that ? ?
From last 5 days i m checking my case status, It is still in initial review and no clock on it :(:(
my employer is not even responding . i also asked him to upload it to premium. but he is not replying at all
Pvd,
There is no standard response to this question. Every attorney can take their own time to process and file the PP application. Check w/ your attorney/employer. Once it has been filed, USCIS will process it within couple of days and then you will see the appropriate message online.
I am on my F1 Visa currently enrolled in School with I-20 and F1 Visa currently expiring this August. My H1B is in processing state and I am planning to go to India and return some time in June 2013.
1) Can I leave the country when H1B is in processing?
2) If my H1B is approved can I return with my existing I-20 and F1 Visa with out getting h1b stamping?
3) If H1b is not approved can I still travel to India and come back?
Thanks for your help.
Damodhar,
1. Your COS will be abandoned while H-1 will continue to be processed
2. You can return on F-1/I-20 if you are still enrolled in the school and the stamp has not expired. Later, you can file COS from F-1 to H-1 on your approved petition. COS that was filed earlier would have abandoned as you left US while it was under process.
3. Yes, as long as you maintain your F-1 status
Another option: upgrade petition to PP, get it approved w/ COS, travel to India and return on your stamped unexpired F-1 visa, stay on F-1 till Oct 1 and then move to H-1 from Oct 1 on your previously approved COS.
Thanks Saurabh.
My H1B is in PP
I am confused with answer 1 and 2.
So what you are saying is If I leave this country if my H1B is still under processing then my COS will be abandoned but I can still enter this country with my valid F1 visa. If my H1B is approved meanwhile, I can ask my Attorney to reapply for COS.
So does that mean me leaving the country on H1B processing would not affect me with my H1B processing and me entering to USA again?
Damodhar,
That is correct. Your H-1 process consists of two parts – H-1 petition and COS. The former will continue to be processed and may get approved based on submitted documents and information. Only COS will be abandoned.
Does that clarify?
Thanks Saurab!
But when I asked my attorney she told me that I cannot leave the country while h1b is in processing.
I think she does not want to redo the COS thing. Any suggestions?
Damodhar,
Probably. You can talk to her again and discuss this w/ her that leaving US will abandon COS but not impact the H-1 itself.
Hi…
still waiting for receipt number…don’t know what happen??
can you guys share your consultant names so if i ll not get my receipt number so i can contact them next year??
Thanks
Here is some math for people interested in numbers (using data from H1bwiki facebook May 16th poll). I did not validate these numbers and you can add an error margin of +/- 5%
Selected (approved/waiting/denised) = 76,372
Waiting = 34,409
True lottery rejects = 13,218
It was interesting to see that approximately 2300 apps were rejected after being selected in the lottery in just 1 month.
Once again – these numbers are just based of an unofficial poll.
Forgot to mention – The result was based of sample size = 600 votes. (0.4 % of actual population)
My package had been sent back to my employer .just got this heavy news .
I am AD/PP/VSC
Thanks to all people in this Forum and this forum(Thanks Saurabh).
This is worst part of luck i have faced .i am going back to homeland. i hope worst is over for me.
Good luck to you all .
Got my package back,
Sorry to hear that! I hope better opportunities await you in the future.
Hi Saurabh/All,
Will the USCIS send a receipt after Selection in lottery and also send another Receipt after approval? can you explain me, if any receipts/acknoledgement is received after approval?
@Sneha: I797C – notice of action – receipt after selection of lottery or rejection letter
http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=9d4f068d9c456310VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD
After approval they send I797A [approval with new i-94] or I797B [ just approval]
http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=87f15565d1be3310VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD&vgnextchannel=db029c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD
yes it does.. i797c – receipt of acknowledgement/rejection notice
i797a/i797b – approval notice
Another week started … Waiting for result ……. May be this week bring a cheer and people like me will get information of being selected in the lottery …
I am also in the same boat like you but the recent update from USCIS is the data entry process is completed on 10th may itself and now the time is to wait for returned packets.
Please check http://www.h1bvisalawyerblog.com/2013/05/update_on_receipt_notices_for.html
Hopes are still alive ….
Hello, Can any one help me with the information that whether we need to wait for the lottery result or look for other alternatives. I work for an Indian MNC, my employer still dont have information about my application….worried alot 🙁 🙁
My status was on initial review and not it move to ‘At this time uscis cannot provide you imformation for your case.’
Don’t know what this means, anyone any clue on this thing?
TIA!
My status was on initial review and not it move to ‘At this time uscis cannot provide you imformation for your case.’
Don’t know what this means, anyone any clue on this thing?
TIA!
My application was picked up in lottery.
Petition No: WAC131365xxxx
Still it is in Initial review.
My application was filled in RR/RP.
When I can expect that this would be approved?
Shall I change it to PP for faster processing??
It can take few month
PP costs $$$. How much is not waiting worth to you?
I think for PP we have to pay $1K.Any how my employer will pay that.I feel it would be better if I would convert it to premium to know exact approved/Denial status and to feel relax.
Rkode,
$1225 to be precise.
If your employer is willing to pay the PP cost, why didn’t they just file PP at the start? You could have known weeks ago…
Hi rkode,
Could you tell us when did you hear about the success case of your lottery? was it by this week or last week?
Thanks.
3 weeks back my employer send the status with petition no
Yes, you can change it to PP to get faster response, normal process will takes a month to several months (one of my friend got his H1B approval after 7 months last year).
I tried the same, my employer is ready to pay for PP, but my attorney said PP will increase the RFE chances, I don’t know how much truth in that. So my current plan is I’ll wait till august, then change it to PP if I didn’t get any response from USCIS by July end.
@HopeForTheBest: I accept with you.I am also planning to wait upto July Mid.
But really does the chances of RFE will increase in case of PP?
Is it really true???
Some one pls help on this.
Hi All,
Recently my employer filled H1B for me and luckily i’m selected in the lottery.When i asked for the receipt number he said he can’t share due to some company policy and he said it would take around 2 months to know the status..wat are the chances of rejection ? once employer receives the receipt number what is the success rate??
Thanks in Advance
>> When i asked for the receipt number he said he can’t share due to some company policy.
If this is a consulting company and you paid money (security deposit) to get your H1B filed this could be a case of fraud. The employer may come back to you saying your H1B got rejected and pocket the security deposit. Now that you do not have the receipt number with you it is possible that your application never got selected in the lottery. If the employer told this to you they would have to return the security deposit, but by hiding this that can keep your money!
>> wat are the chances of rejection ? once employer receives the receipt number what is the success rate??
There can be no generalization here, it depends on many factors linked to you and your employer. Among other things your qualifications, your employers background, the job applied for, etc.
Thanks for reply Ram,
No this is not a consulting company and i did’nt even pay single penny my employer took care of everything.Will it take 2 months to know the update ???
Your welcome. Sorry for the false alarm! It is weird why the employer wants to hide the receipt number form you?!
Yes it takes anywhere between 2 to 6 months for regular processing of H1B cases. 2-3 months should be a reasonable wait time.
You know… the fastest way to get information about approval is to simply stop thinking about it and stop looking the status up on the USCIS website. Concentrate on your daily life and time will fly. And before you know the results will reach you!:)
Maybe they want to hide the receipt number because it can be used to transfer the H1-B to another employer.
> You know… the fastest way to get information about approval is to simply stop thinking about it and stop looking the status up on the USCIS website. Concentrate on your daily life and time will fly. And before you know the results will reach you!:)
Good advice!
You know… the fastest way to get information about approval is to simply stop thinking about it and stop looking the status up on the USCIS website. Concentrate on your daily life and time will fly. And before you know the results will reach you!:)
Very good Advice.
I applied and got my appln selected in Lottery and here is the scenario
AD/PP/WSC
Apr 8th: Application selected in Lottery notice
Apr 15th: Changed from Acceptance to RFE and back to Initial Review
Apr 18th: Attorney notified me that my Appln is in RFE and USCIS need additional documents and clock stopped.
May 14th: Clock restarted again after submitting RFE documents and still my status is Initial Review.
Not sure what is going on and my Employer told me that USCIS needed lot of documents from them and he did not ask any of my documents.
What do you think is happening and when do you think any decision will be made?
Damodhar,
They are reviewing the RFE response at the moment. As it is PP, they will adjudicate it within 15 calendar days from May 14th.
How long do you think they will take?
15 days includes weekends too?
Yes, it is 15 calendar days.
How many days usually get it from WSC?
Is contacting USCIS be of any help?
Since mine is PP is there a specific number which I shld call or a general phone number?
Damodhar,
15 calendar days from May 14 is May 29ish. Why do you want to contact them before that? They are not going to speed up or slow down b/c of your call.
Let them use the time allowed as per their SLA and then follow-up w/ them. Even then, your employer/attorney should contact them and not you.
Just few minutes ago My Clock has stopped again. Here is the exact status
On May 21, 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.
Clock restarted again after my Attorney filed for RFE on May 14. What does this status means now. RFE again?
Hi Saurabh ,
i have still gt no info frm my attorney regd my Regular processing H1b visa. can i still keep hope .
Wating Waiting,
Hopes are less, and its better to start working on alternate plans.
This year, Is there any waiting list for RQ/RP/CSC ? Anybody say what is the timeline for that..
Question regarding Consular Stamping-
Can the employer offer letter be a print out on the company letter head? or should it be signed personally by the employer and sent to INDIA via post.
Usually offer letters are electronically signed by CEO. Personally signed copy or will a color printout of the same be fine?
facts4life,
Print out of the letter will also work. It is not necessary to have wet signature original document from the employer (although it’s always the first preference).
Thank you Saurabh.
Hi Saurabh/All,
My wife has applied for H1B in 2014 quota and got selected in lottery, she is on H4 in US.
My H1B and her H4 would be expiring mid Nov 2013 and i would be applying for extension around 5/6 months before expiry (June/July 2013).
My question is shall i apply for her H4 extension also along with my H1B extension or not as her H1B application processing is already in flight.
Your help and insight would really be appreciated, i know there would be many in such situation or have went through one.
Her H-1b is not guaranteed to be approved by November (and of course it may also be rejected) so you better ask for her H4 extension, too.
Just upgrade her petition to PP with CoS.
Amit,
Gentoo provided a nice solution to your issue. This will give you and your wife ample time to take corrective action in case her H-1 runs into issues.
Hi surabh
Can u guide me petition get approval.means its in post
Decision stage
My is Rp/RQ/VAC
Guide me what are next stages how can I get case number
And when can I go for stamping shall I take my wife for h4 with me.
Guide me its really help full to me becoz after approval I don’t have any info what’s going on like.
CShah,
You already have the case number i.e. the receipt number which you used to look up the petition. You can go for stamping at most 90 days prior to H-1 start date. Get all the documents from your employer and go to US consulate website in your home country which has the next steps documented.
Hi all
My Rfe was responded and my status changed from clock restarted to clock stopped 3 days back and no update yet from my employer or attorney. Is anyone in the same situation and got any update?? It’s kinda freeking me out.
Please reply.
Might be a rejection…not to discourage u…but it happened to my friend….
Mohan,
Do you know the reason why your friend’s petition was denied?
can be approval also , it happened for my friend. clock restarted , stopped and gave decision as approved
londonh1b,
Did the status change to approval the same day?
no..after one day
@londonh1b
Hello
Were you are from in London.
I am from London as well.
What happened to your result?
did u get any update?
Hi,
i got informed by my employer ,that recieved receipt on may 1st,but some how employer is not willig to share the wac number…
cld nebody tell me the reason for this ..
can”t track my case ..and getting really really worried now
PP/csc/Rq
saurabh,
wld Appreciate if u reply ..any options for me
Not only ur employer, even my employer is not willing to share the receipt number… I saw there are lot of people in this forum where employers are not sharing the receipt number to the applicants…. No other options for us..only have to wait until they give us an update on our status..
Hi Saurabh,
My H1B application was RQ/PP/CSC. Neither got the receipt not the packet has been returned yet. Any idea on how long could it take to get PP application returned?
Another question: I am currently working in a university (H1B, non-quota). I have PhD with around 20 conference/journal papers with 61 citations. I can surely get 10 good recommendations. Do you any suggestion if my employer can apply for any other type of visa like O1 and what is the chance? I hard it is very tough, almost impossible to get.
Thanks for your reply.
Hope it helps.
Middle of article, there are 8 conditions for O1 visa and you need to fulfill at least 3 of them.
http://www.internationalcenter.umich.edu/immig/ovisa/
@tensed,
You have a very good chance to get O-1 visa. To strengthen your case, you can judge atleast 3 journal articles and apply for professional memberships. Even otherwise, you have a very good chance of getting O-1 visa approved.
Thanks v for your reply. I am postdoc in computer science. What kind of professional membership are you talking about?
Try for senior membership in IEEE, 6 sigma or any other computer science related professional membership / fellowship. I hope this helps.
Hi All,
I checked my status and it is at Request for Evidence. My attorney has not received the notification yet, and the worse part is that the day they (USCIS) said they posted the notification keeps changing on the site. It said May 7, first then it was May 13 and now May 15. Could people who have already received some request of evidence please share what kind of evidence are the USCIS asking or even a general outline on what they usually ask. I know its different for different folks but still a general idea would be great.
Thank you all!
could you pls share ur first 5 digits of receipt no..
AD or RQ /PP or RP ?
I too Got an RFE and on May 15th they say that they’ve mailed the docs.
according to me they mail thrugh usps , and it takes may 20th for the packet to reach my employer.
once they have the docs then lawyer replies may be in a week and send the pack and that takes a week again.
may be in 2-3 weeks (IF they respond in the time frame we are making a guess about)
the application again starts processing …
Anyone from Deebecon got their H1B approved? or did Employer called you about the current status of your petition. Look like they are not sharing the receipt number to me so could not find out my current status with USCIS…
Hi H1BSeeker
I also filed thru Deedecon… they didnt provide the receipt number……. So cant check the status 🙁 …Hasn’t yet received any call also
What is the normal processing time for regular cases ? I came to know my check got cashed on 3rd week of April. Normally, people says it will take 2 to 3 months to processing the regular cases. I am planning to upgrade it to premium. Anyone please suggest me going premium is the right option.. this will release my tension…. rather waiting for the status without having receipt number in hand……
u shud have ur receipt number from ur cashed check.
I am not sure if you can upgrade to premium without a receipt.
@srb,
how come I know about the cheque details, the cheque was issue by Employer. I need to talk to my employer and see if he agrees for a premium process.
H1BSeeker,
Upgrading to PP will put the processing on fast track. However, it will not change the start date from Oct 1 to earlier. If you want to upgrade it for peace of mind, then go for it. Discuss w/ your employer and do it. Some employers (especially desi consulting companies) prefer not to do PP as they fear it may result in denial (which is a myth).
Yes, getting denial when you make it PP is a myth but this is also a truth that sometimes to get more time for processing, USCIS will issue RFE for PP applications
San Ch,
That’s also a myth but something that’s more plausible 🙂
@Saurabh,
Thanks for your inputs.. i will check with my employer and if he is ok for Premium I will go for it..
One more week ends ……..
Lets see what destiny has in mind next week.
same here
I hope something good for all of us buddy!
Lawyer is out for one week. I guess I will hear about rejection next week.
😛
Saurabh,
here’s a question for you… I used part time CPT for a 3-month internship during my last semester in my MS program. It was an integral part of my degree (my university was a big public university who is very strict on CPT cases because they don’t want to be blacklisted by USCIS).
The company liked me so much that they offered me a FT position after I graduated (OPT). They have also applied for the H1-b for me.
Do you think this will raise any flags? I honestly didn’t even think it would until today because none of this was fraud in any way.
Hi Kat,
My case is same. I did 2 Month CPT with my current company as a paid intern back in 2010. Then after I graduated in 2011 they offered me a full time position at another location of theirs. I think if your case is genuine then it shouldn’t throw up any issues.
I think in fact these cases are clearer because they have our background history from here directly and shows us working well with the company and hence theirs needing our services, etc.
I think so, too… But you never know. I’m just hoping they’re not trying to spin it that I used this internship to gain employment, which is not true. It was part of my curriculum and I received credit for it.
What’s your case, are you still waiting for a decision?
@Kat: I think it should not be an issue.
I did CPT for the last two semesters of my MS program. I was a thesis student and the findings of my CPT were added to my thesis. Then the company offered me a full time position. I joined the same company. My H1b was applied this year and it has been approved.
So as long as CPT is in the field of your MS degree, you should not have any issues
Thanks for the reply! Makes me feel better (or at least less nervous)…
Yes, both my CPT and my current job are directly related to my major so that won’t be an issue. Congrats on getting yours approved!
Kat,
You should be fine. Don’t think too much about not-so-good cpt-from-day-one universities ruining the chances for those who played by the rules.
As you mentioned, the work on CPT was related to your program and your university is a big one – so it all should be fine.
Good luck!
Hi All and site admin,
Does anyone have info about the last day to expect the returned package from USCIS?
Thanks
in 2008, return of ~70k (163 k total submitted to USCIS) petitions started first week of may and ended in third week of June (Source: from an earlier discussion with Saurabh). That is roughly 9 k petitions returned per week.
This year, return of possibly ~25 – 30 k (124 k total) started in first week of may (if the posts here are true) so the expectation is that they will complete it by end of May, or first week of June. (Assuming the same trend follows as 2008).
These are just speculations on the return of true lottery rejects.
If the concept of wait listing holds true this year, then the return process of wait listed petitions will go on till end of June as full filling the 85 k cap with approved petitions will take some time.
Hello friends
i am in H4. no receipts so planning to give tofel test. so i can take admission here in MS.
don’t know what happen next year.
can any one guide me for this what is the last date of admission. i know only next session will start from August 2013.
I see there a lot of male H4s here. Just wanted to get a headcount..
+1
+1
RQ/RP/VSC
+1..
+1
what difference does it make if applicant is male/female? why you want to get a headcount…looks like you are playing some game or what…
btw I am not under h4 , just saw a weird (no offense) post so replied…
It is a solidarity thing!
so what it will accomplish?!?!
nothing to be honest.
btw I am TROLLING as no new TROLL was posted today.
Makes a lot of diff since challenges faced by them could be very different – both on career & personal front. You may not understand since you are not on H4.
So now that you have the count, what next? 🙂
I am silently watcher for this site and it is really helpful. Today my employer mailed me saying that my package has been returned after a long wait
RD/RP/CSC
may be better luck next time …
Guys who are waiting keep faith and all the best all of you out there.
@GG,
Are the same GG in H1B Visa 2014 – All you need to know – FAQs forum?
@GG,
Are u the same GG in H1B Visa 2014 – All you need to know – FAQs forum?
H4 ppl who stay in bay area, California, give a try by registering yourself with ITU for Masters and you get CPT from 1st semester onwards. Hope this helps.
Thanks
Hey thanks for that info. I am looking into it right now.
Hi
I am in Chicago(H4).Can I still apply for some course in that university from here & get the CPT.
Also one more question, If I get CPT can I work for MNC’s or tell me what kind of Jobs I can apply for ?
Please can you also provide me with the fee details.
Please Help,
CPT needs to be an integral part of the course/program. In addition, your work on CPT should be directly related to your course.
You want to stay in IL and enroll in a school in CA and get the CPT and work in IL. When will you attend the classes? May I suggest doing more search on the TVU and know what happened to students who did similar kind of fraud.
Woking from first day on CPT
This is from joef ,
No real university will give somebody CPT from day one.
CPT is not for working in some arbitrary job.
If you want to study, concentrate on studying, not working.
What you try is abuse of the F1/CPT, and it would kill your career in the US forever.
I do agree with him ,even i planned to do CPT which did look like a backup plan for me .
but I realize its too risky because
1. Masters is for study not to work
2. then i would stop your masters program in between in april. or oct
3.Even if i get approved for h1b next year , Visa officer will cleary know your intentions and there are high chances of denying VISA .
4.once i get denied for that reason (abuse) , i dont think i will be issued any type of visa ever.
above are my personal rick factors , not to scare any one.
I hope you get approval though…. Let us know whichever is the case….All the best
Update on Receipt Notices for FY2014 H-1B Cap Cases :: H1B Visa Lawyer Blog
http://www.h1bvisalawyerblog.com/2013/05/update_on_receipt_notices_for.html
If this is to be believed then why is not USCIS making an official announcement regarding it ?
I recieved notification from my lawyers yesterday about my rejection. I guess its official now. Good luck to every one. I have to channel my energy towards other avenues now. Temporary hiccup in my plan but it still goes on. PP/RQ/CSC
what is the reason for rejection..?
Even though they worded it as a rejection, I think it means they got the package back.
Rejected,
Even receiving the petition back (for not making through the lottery) is called rejection.
How can they be finished sending receipts if they are still processing approvals? Do they actually notify people on the waitlist that they are on the waitlist?
http://www.h1bvisalawyerblog.com/2013/05/update_on_receipt_notices_for.html
All Friends,
As you all know, my application was NOT selected in lottery and we got package back 2 days ago.
My premium processing fee cheque arrived this morning in Mail.
Plan B is making good progress.
I was AD/PP/VSC
Good luck.
can you pls share your Plan B ?
Hi Friends
Finally decided that I can never get my receipt for this year.I have 5 yrs of IT exp & was sitting at home since 2 years without any Job on H4.Dont know when I am going to start my career again. So planning for other options & approached a consultancy from which I got the following reply.
“You have 2 choices, either to wait for next year quota for the H1 B or change your status to F1 (student visa) and get a CPT then work.
Again not all the universities will issue a CPT right away, as they ask the student to complete at least 2 semesters, But we are Agents for some Accredited Universities where we can help you get a CPT right away soon after you change your status to F1 in the first semester itself”.
Some experts here, please suggest which is the best option for me.I really appreciate for any kind of suggestions.
I am on H4 why not you pursue MS here over those 2 years?
Depending on reform bill maybe try in next year H1b. Unless depend on you if can cover University Fees then do F1 and properly after 1 or 2 semester pursue CPT .No legal Univ. offeres CPT from start will show on petition next time.
same here I am also on H4 waiting for receipt till today…but i think its done now…RQ RP …with more than 3 years IT experience …but sitting at home since last 2 years…its big pain of not getting selected in lottery…but thats the destiny …that stuck with the stupid USCIS system…even touch based wid schools here but none offer CPT from the start…so its high time now for that too…will wait for april 2014 now
If you guys stay in bay area, California, then give a try by registering yourself with ITU for Masters and you get CPT from 1st semester onwards. Hope this helps.
Thanks
Same here.,tried for H4 to H1. Came to US in this feb. hold 6 years of work exp. didn’t think of plan b . Now lost hope in lottery. Not sure whether I could stay and wait for next year H1 since if next year also something did end up in hands of luck then I don’t know how my fate would be.PP/VSC
are u from Florida?
drexel university also provides CPT from 1st semester of your masters.
any idea abt any schools providing cpt from 1st sem in florida…
sorry no idea 🙁
thas ok…:)
No. Frm Chicago
which university in Chicago?
I am not doing any masters here., just waiting for some conclusion either receipt or package, almost lost my hope in lottery,. Just sitting blank and waiting my time.
Hi Raju
I am also on H4 located in Chicago. Can you please provide the info regarding universities in chicago that offer CPT from 1st sem.
Hi Raju,
I too on H4 to H1 process,came to US this jan,5yrs of exp. Luckily i got through the lottery.On May 13 i got my receipt. So plz don’t loose hope.Wait for some more days..
All d best…
Thanks for the hope., congrats for u .,
I assume everyone looking for CPT from 1st day/semester are aware of the risks associated w/ going w/ such a school.
Hi Saurabh! I dont know the risks of going to such schools , can you please tell me the risks. Greatly appreciated!
K,
This is what I posted earlier on another post:
Before going this route, do some thorough research:
– CPT can be issued only if it is really related to the program. Diploma mills abuse this system. So do not use CPT if it is not integrally required by your program
– If you do AD in such schools, you will be eligible for Masters quota only if the school is non-profit. Most of these are for-profit schools and do not qualify one for AD cap
– USCIS and ICE have cracked-down on such schools in the past (read about TVU). If your school is closed down, you may or may not get the chance to transfer to another school.
If you end up in one of such nonsense schools, then remember not to play the victim card as this would have been a conscious decision on your part.
Its simple, If that school shuts down and you are staying on their F-1 status, your status becomes invalid and you are technically overstaying your status in this country.
Remember, if you overstay your status (+ allowed grace period of 30 (please correct me on this if I am wrong) days on F-1) – it is an automatic 3-10 yr ban and makes your reentry after 3 – 10 year even more questionable as the US will always see you as a law-breaker.