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 ?
Just now I got email notification my H1 visa got approved..
EAC13139504xx
RQ/RP/IT
Hi Guys
I am on h4 visa and ya filed my h1b prettition. I haven’t heard anything since April 8 other that application number. My h4 visa is expiring on jan 15 . I am afraid if I wait further than it would be too late to plan my h4 extension in case if my h1b prettition is denied.
My question here is can I file for h4 extension while my h1b is in process (waiting for result )
I will appreciate your suggestions and then I will post a summary based on all responses for others
Hi All,
I got rejection letter of lottery but It had my name written by Hand instead of computerized print. I know at this moment I can not do anything but just asking If I can trust authenticity of the rejection letter.
Thanks,
Patrick
That sound kind of suspicious, what does your lawyer says?
Is it possible that you receive letter straight away , even without receiving an RFE?
Is it a letter to say that you did not win a lottery or that your petition was denied….?
I thought you’d get a notice of intent to deny or something if you win th elottery but you get denied without RFE to give a chance to prove you shuold get the H1B.
My Petition was filed on April 2013. My Employer says they are yet to receive any response regarding my petition.
I was in US on L1B earlier till Feb 2012.
Do I still have any chance of my petition being selected in Lottery and they haven’t informed us yet / Am I in the waiting list.
Has anyone come across this situation ?
Hi,
I got selected in lottery, but my package was returned saying incorrect fee. My employer resent the package explaining about fees, still no word from USCIS. Any one in same situation like me??
All the best…
Karthick
Hi All,
I have been waiting in Initial Review status for my H1B since april and its frustrating.
The content in USCIS is “On April 16, 2013, your Alien Registration Number was changed relating to your I129, PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. Please check our website at http://www.uscis.gov for further updates on your case” etc
But for few other petitions with IR status i see the content as “On April 8, 2013, we received this I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER, and mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case. Please follow any instructions on this notice.” etc
Can anyone let me know what is the difference between those two ?
My series is WAC1313550***. RP/RQ IT sector.
Thanks
You usually have the “alien registration number” when you’re in US or you’ve been to US recently. (My case too)
I have been waiting for Long, I work for an MNC and all they are saying is they are waiting of Lottery Status from USCIS
I have been already in US through L1B visa till feb 2012…
So you are saying that people who have been in US, usually face this kind of delay?
In my case I am not sure if I am selected for Lottery itself…
Please advice
But i have never been to US before ..
So are you selected in Lottery ? Or you are waiting for Lottery Status ?
I have a receipt no. So i am selected in lottery.
Oh, god! Thank you.
After a looong loooong wait, my petition finally got approved.
The series is: EAC-13-138-52***
Who still doesn’t have a decision, don’t worry guys:
I have been sandwiched in too. 90% of cases in my series were in a PDA and I was one of the lucky guys still waiting.
This way I wanna express my support to you, who still waiting. Don’t worry, you will get it soon!
Hey Guys,
I believe the processing of H4 to H1 applications are pretty slow. Do you guys have any idea. M WAC13143514** . Waiting…
Decision
On August 23, 2013, we mailed you a denial decision notice for this case I129 PETITION FOR A NONIMMIGRANT WORKER. The notice explains why the denial decision was made and the options that may be available to you. If you have not received this notice within 15 days of August 23, 2013, please call customer service at 1-800-375-5283 for further assistance.
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.
any hope after getting above message???
Congratulations!! anyway
Did you got RFE initially ? or it went to denial status directly
i got denial after RFE RESPONSE REVIEW..
sorry:(
What was RFE all about? Were you trying with a small consultancy?
Can you share these details please.
what is your receipt number? A friend of mine got the same answer and they are looking into it
Hi,
@yy,
If your friend got the same answer , then send your mom to f**k your friend..
Kulaps
Hi,
@Kulaps,
Sorry but I already sent yours !! maybe next time !
Same here, H4 to H1, EAC- 13- 139-52XXX and in IR since April 8.
Dear Saurabh,
Thanks for this blog, really helped me a lot!!, my question its the next… its required the original i797 for the interview?. The lawyer of my company told me that only the copy its required and they provided me only with copies not original of the i797.
Im attending the interview in the Dubai consulate, at the moment when i was making the appointment the mentioned its not required the i797 and they only asked me my receipt number at the moment to book, but im unsure as i saw in many blogs they require the original. Please advise!!
Regards!!
SS,
I believe u need an original I797 for the interview. A copy of I 129 will suffice.
-Alas
My Petition no starts with EAC.. I have got an RFE.
RFE date – > May 30
Response date – > August 26
How long will it take for USCIS to give the decision on it.. It is vermont center.
24 hours… if not to bad
i got rfe on may 13th and responded on july8th. its been 53 days im waiting. we’ve to wait for atleast 60 days ( best case). !!!!!
waiting since 45 Days@EAC13134XXXXX/AD/RP.. after responding to RFE.
In dilemma whether USCIS get back to us by Oct1st..?
Do we need to upgrade it to premium around Sept 1st/2nd week, so that it will get answered “Decision/PDA” before Oct1st?
Hi,
Could you please help to share what was the RFE about? Mine is RQ/RP/IT got RFE on 23rd Aug, I am still waiting to hear from my employer.
Hello Saurabh/People working in US already,
I got stamped early this month and resigned from my current job. I am planning to fly on 25th Sept to US and my work location as per LCA & petition is Santa Clara, CA.
I have a cousin who stays in Dallas, TX and due to obvious reasons I unchecked the box that read ‘do you have any relatives in US’ wile applying visa.
My question is, can I enter at Dallas (POE) to stay with him till my SSN etc is processed and then join the company on my joining date at CA? Will any questions be raised at POE when my work location is CA?
Appreciate your thoughts….
Hello Approved,
Congrats on ur stamp!!, my question its the next… you required the original i797 as my lawyer told me only the copy its required, here on the Dubai consulate the mentioned its not required but im unsure as i saw in many blogs they require the original.
Regards!!
Check with your lawyer for better advice.
I think it should not be a problem entering and staying in Dallas. I would suggest to purchase an advanced ticket from Dallas to CA and show at POE that you will be working @ CA and show them the ticket if required. If asked @ POE, tell them you are visiting friend/relative for few days.
Plan to reach CA and settle down few days before your joining date.
Good Luck with your relocation to US.
Hi guys,
So after a long wait and subsequent upgrade of my petition to premium processing I got my H1 petition approved today. Needless to say the wait was agonizing and hence the elation is exhilarating..was a passive but a frequent reader of the forum.
I just have a question.Now that my petition is approved,how many days would it take for my attorney to recieve the original approved petition. have seen cases in the forum where USCIS has taken around a month to send the petition back. Does a PP mean that USCIS will be faster in sending the approved package back or is this bit of the process same irrespective of PP OR Regular. Do let me know. thanks again for all your help and special thanks to saurabh for the effort he puts in to answer our queries.
Alas signing off for now 🙂
Mine took a week to come to Attorney, I am in US…mine was COS from L1 to H1
Thanks Dude. Hope my reaches the attorney within a week too.
Hi Alas,
Congrats. Was that a COS. If so then what is your current status. Would you mind sharing first 5 digits of your receipt number?
COS is change of status….my series is WAC13144502**.
Hi,
My husband has applied for h1b visa through a company…they also have office in hyderabad. On may 8th theu shared that the application has been picked up,but he has not shared the reciept no.,nothing has happened yet…..still waiting for the petition approval.
Now I feel that may be employer is cheating him because he has taken the hefty sum from him..pls suggest what can be done to check and what action can be taken against him
Hi Priya,
Which company in Hyderabad, is it PTG.
Report the case to USCIS. This guy will be trashed left and right with many litigation……
USCIS takes such cases very strictly, if it can be proved, he will have to shell out last penny from his pocket and also result in termination of his license.
these days the number of such fraudulent cases have gone up steeply….how did u pay? was it by cash or by cheque?
If I were you, I would stay calm. You very well know that it takes a lot of time for the approval to come through. No one would dare to cheat taking such a hefty sum because they know the consequences. Wait for a month or two. See what the status is and then think about doing anything. Stay calm and wait patiently would be my advice. I hope things work out soon.
Hi Priya,
How frustrated a person can be ? Without knowing the employer your husband paid Money, just to work in USA. Paying for H1B is also not legal (leave about employer who take money, they have their own constrain).
I am quite sure you paid the amount either in chase or some unknown person’s account (not the employer account). I wish, this employer teach you good lesson.
Anyway, how much you paid to buy H1B.
Priya, why did you pay for H1b visa? you yourself did cheating by declaring that you know the employer and have a job with them in USA. form your case it sounds that you just wanted H1b from the employer without having a job. i know many people like you do that every year. but if you think then you will see you are equally responsible. now stay calm and wait. dont do second mistake. i am also waiting for my visa approval like thousands others. stop writing such revealing things on internet forums. it may harm you and your employer.
Dear All,
I am writing first time on this forum and need suggestions from your end to evaluate the correctness of information.
I have applied for H1B in the month of april, but till date have not received any accpetance or denial on my petition. Yesterday i spoke to my employer and they said there is nothing like waiting list and chances are less.
I am bit worried where my petition has gone? Is there anyone facing same issue? Also what are the possibilities?
Kindly advise.
Thanks
Alok
Can you mail me please…I am also in Same boat..Will have call …
hi guys I got picked in the 2013 lottery system apr 15th it was accepted and I got receipt, currently stuck in an RFE can somebody tell me if the rfe is replied on aug 4th week, how long does it take to Approve H1b, my receipt WAC13134518**, Also if someone can tell me is everyone’s H1 will be cleared by October 1st…. If so the case I ll be cool at-least from now……..
Hi,
Could you please help to share what was the RFE about? Mine is RQ/RP/IT got RFE on 23rd Aug, I am still waiting to hear from my employer.
Anyone in WAC131415**** (8th april) series? Its been centuries i am in INITIAL REVIEW. Anyone in the same series.
Same here 🙁 waiting patiently ..very painful and enduring. Good Luck to all who are still waiting and Congrats to those who got it already.
Not sure, when my status will see some action, sad right now.
Ask your employer/attorney to raise e-request for your case, it might help.
Suggested my attorney to raise E-Request. He suggested to be patient and wait for some more time. Thanks for suggestion though!! Good Luck.
Dude.. Thanks for the information. Is your’s an I129 with COS ? If yeah what is your current status..
I got approved COS L1-H1, different employer though….my attorney got approved I-797A too on 26th August…Hope the same for you too….All the best
It is the end of August and I have been waiting from April 8th.
EAC 13146502**
(Left the US after filing, and it’s to obtain a visa overseas, is this the reason why it takes so long? Anybody in the same situation?)
Checked #s in a row and seems that most cases had a decision except mine. The wait is just painful and frustrating.
Good luck EVERYBODYYYYYY!!
I hear you, this waiting game is terrible
I’m currently in US and my series is EAC-13-139-52XXX which is still in IR since April 8th. You are not alone my friend I’m in the same boat!
Hi
I am also in the same boat. EAC-13-145*****. there are only 6 cases which are in IR from 8th April in my series. No case was touched till yet today.
I am currently in US and my current Visa expire on Feb 2014. No idea why USCIS want us to bear this wait. No idea whats going on.
thanks
Hi
Today one more case went to RFE, so now 5 out of 100 are pending, i am also one of them.
let see how much wait.
thanks
My Series is WAC-13-137-506** and is also in the same boat.. I am waiting to hear something from USCIS and it is just killing me daily.
Good Luck to others who got approved.
Same here.. EAC-131 425 1xxx – IR since April 8th
the waiting is killing me!
Same here it is in IR from Day 1 April 8th not sure how long it continues except 3 to 5 cases out of hundred are in IR in which I am the lucky one :((((.
Receipt no EAC1313853XXX.
WAC13146514**. 92 out of 100 are approved or RFE mine is still in initial review. H4 to H1 cos.. So I don’t think it is because you are waiting for a visa to be issued abroad. It’s random. There is no logic in which applications get picked up for review and which do not.
Anybody with EAC-13-136-series waiting for approval yet… I had an “Request for Evidence” which was replied more than a month ago.. but my case is still under review…
Mine is AD/RP/EAC13134 series, replied to RFE 6 weeks back n waiting..
Not sure whether USCIS will get back to us by Oct 1st or upgrade to PP..?
Any suggestions/inputs will be appreciated..?
Hi,
Could you please help to share what was the RFE about? Mine is RQ/RP/IT got RFE on 23rd Aug, I am still waiting to hear from my employer.
Dear Saurabh,
I need an urgent info, after we upgrade the petition to premium processing, after how much time USCIS starts working on it as premium processing to make decision in 15 days? how can we know that it is upgraded.
thanks
Hi Guys ,
Any update on case numbers starting with WAC-13-143-5**** .
it shows initial review still 🙁
Same for EAC1314451***
Same here for mine as well…EAC1314451***. still waiting since April 8, planning to upgrade to premium processing
Hi
Mine is EAC13142***** series and got approved on 22nd Aug 2013.
Regards
Reddy
Hi Guys ,
Any update who have their case number WAC – 13-143 – 5**** ?
Its showing initial review .
Hi Everyone,
Is there anyone whose status is still IR from the series WAC1314352** OR WAC1314350**
Me and my colleague have these are we are stuck in IR since Apr 8.
Also did a e-query on 21 Aug but have not received any acknowledgement or reply to that.
Thanks in advance
Sumit
Hey Sumit,
I am on the same boat 🙁 – WAC1314250***.
I am seeing lot of action on receipts surrounding mine number, but hoping everyday/week that some status change will happen for my WAC# also. I have decided to raise e-req this weekend, if this week also, I see no action.
Wish you Good Luck!!
Hey Om,
Thanks and all the best to you as well.
Sumit
Thanks Sumit!! Plz keep me posted on this and I shall do the same too. Good Luck.
hi.
my visa got approved on july 30, i need to check my petition period
is there any site where we can check our petition period with receipt number..
pls let me know
thanks in advance..
check yur form I797B which wil be generated after 1 week of petition approval. that form will have yur petition validity dates.
Hi Saurabh,
I am currently working on a L1 visa which is valid until Jan 2014. A different company has applied for my H1 B visa in a COS (consular processing mode). My new employer who has filed H1B for me is asking me to join in Dec 2013. So my concern is if my L to H COS (consular processing) gets approved before Oct 1 Can I still continue to work with my current company on L1 visa beyond Oct 1 and join the new employer on H1B (after visa stamping by travelling outside USA if required) OR I will have to join new employer on H1B on Oct 1 which will be the valid start date for my H1.
My main concern is will my stay in US on L1 visa be illegal after Oct 1 (H1 start) OR since my H1 COS is filed in consular processing mode my H1 visa wont be effective until I get it stamped by travelling outside US before I wish to join new employer in Dec 2013.
Please advise. Any inputs / guidance / directions in this case would be appreciated.
Thanks
Hey,
IMO, you just have an approved H1 petition.. You will either have to file for COS, or get it stamped. Once you do that, you would get your I94 changed which is when you would legally start working for the new employer. Until then you would be legal in your current company.
hi All,
im trying to check my case status since morning. however, its says at this time USCIS can not provide you with information for your case.
Does anyone else have this kind of status or anyone know the reason?
The reason is you have got an RFE and the status will be updated in a couple of days. Is it your first time on this forum. This question has been asked a zillion times. Anyway, all the best.
thanks for your reply.
hi b,
even me faced same problem, i waited nearly for 2 months to see the status change, on aug 22 i found my status changed to REF from USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case.
All the best
Hi guys,
My petition EAC1313754xxx got approved today.
EAC1313754xxx series.
Notice date-8th April 2013
Approval date-23rd August 2013
RP/RQ
IT 6 years exp.
Thanks to all to provide the patience to survive such long wait.
Few more days we will be all on the same boat.
Good luck to all who are waiting for the approvals (on their way).
Cheers!!
Thanks for all the brains behind this immensely resourceful forum. My H1B-COS (from J1) petition got approved on Aug 21 with the receipt # EAC13 148 537XX.
Wish you the best.
Hi All,
I really thank all the forum users and the admins for creating a ground to discuss our VISA related queries and concerns. My VISA got approved today finally.
Receipt number: EAC13145543**
I had seen that this series(out of 100), about 8 were in initial review. Today I noticed that 4 of them(including mine) have moved to a different status (RFE or Approval).
My Status:
April 8: Initial Review
August 23: PDA
One thing is that my Attorney opened an e-request for my case, I have no idea if that’s related to the approval but it is worth a shot in case anybody wants to place. I do not contend anybody’s views here on e-request so please don’t pull me in a debate :-). I just mentioned what happened in my case.
Thanks a zillion again to all of you, if any other detail is needed from me I would be more than glad to provide.
-J
Congrats J!, Just a quick question, when your lawyer place the e-request, while placing the request it only gives you 2 options for the e-request: change address or process time is past due, which for RQ with RFE people will most likely not be the case, we have to wait up to 60 days from each change of status.
Were you PP? did you get a RFE ?
@YY,
RQ/RP, Overseas applicant
I did not get a RFE. A request was placed with past due date option as per the attorney. And I think what you mentioned is correct, if there is any change of status you cannot put an e-request. Though I cannot confirm. May be experts here in the forum can throw some light.
@yy
Mine was RQ/RP
I did not get a RFE.
Hi J,
Congrats on your visa approval.
My lawyer also raised an e-request on 1st august.its been 23days and my visa status is still in initial review.
When did you raise the e-request and within how many days of raising the request did ur visa get approved??
RQ/RP/VSC/EAC13148537xxx
@Sona,
I had given my employer and lawyer an ultimatum last week when they eventually had to place an e-request. And I got a response today, again its confusing for me as well that if it was the e-request or is it just approved as per regular sequence that USCIS is following.
My case also got approved yday after almost 4 months of wait. I did raise e-request (as a beneficiary) on 8/20 and it went to Post Decision Activity directly on 8/22. I did not get acknowledgement for e-request. I agree with J, I am not sure if e-request impacted the decision or it was just co-incidence.
Again thanks for this forum owners, readers and silent viewers. In the time of desperation wait is your only choice thats what i learnt from the experience. Good luck everyone.
RQ/RP/health care domain/ Vermont. EAC13146.
It seems like Coincidence !. I have raised e request on 8/20 as a benificiary and got acknowledgement today from Vermont center.
Below are details.
The status of this service request is:
The Privacy Act, 5 USC Sec. 552a, and Vermont Service Center policy prohibits release of information to someone other than the affected party. The affected party is typically the petitioner, applicant or attorney of record. Disclosures of processing times and general procedures relating to certain form types do not fall under the Privacy Act. However, information given to someone other than the affected party, such as the beneficiary, which relates to the specific processing or adjudication of a particular petition or application is prohibited by the Privacy Act and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) policy.
In addition, only the petitioner or applicant may request a change of address or other changes be made to the record. We cannot process changes requested by the beneficiary or a third party.
Number : EAC-13-148-510**
How can we raise E-request as beneficiary, as i can’t see any option? The only 2 options are 1) Applicant or Petitioner 2) Legal Representative. what did u fill in details like Firstname, last name etc…u entered ur name or attorney/employer name? please guide me
How can we raise E-request as beneficiary, as i can’t see any option? The only 2 options are 1) Applicant or Petitioner 2) Legal Representative. what did u fill in details like Firstname, last name etc…u entered ur name or attorney/employer name? please guide me
@Usman,
I am not aware if it works as an applicant, check with your employer or attorney and push them to raise an e-request.
If anybody else has positive experience on raising an e-request as an applicant, then please share..
Hi,
I just got an update stating that my application is in RFE, can anyone let me know as how long will it take to get the notice. can my employer call USCIS and findout what the RFE is about.
As my application is is RFE now, can i convert it into a premium application.
will be waiting for your reply
Thanks
Kalyan
Man there is no time frame for anything, it could come to you tomorrow or in 2 weeks, and you have to wait for the physically RFE, there is no other way to know what USCIS is asking for.
You need to read the past comments about this topic.
Hi All,
I work for a software firm in India. I’m a tester and i got RFE. They require job duties percentage of time spent , effort required per week etc. did anyone of you got the same status asking for the simillar kind of information?
I did, but it was for the position Market research analyst, if your position is real you will have no problem providing with all the paperwork asked.
As for now my petition is in Review RFE.
Finally my H1-B has been approved. Thank you Saurabh and all the regulars on the site for all the information, help and support. Wishing everyone the best and speedy approval of H1-B visa. Here are some of the details that may be helpful to you all:
Visa notification date: April, 8
Visa receipt date: April, 26
Received I-797C from the lawyer: April, 29
RFE: May, 13
Response to RFE: August, 2
Review of response to RFE: August, 2
I – 129 approved: August, 20 (Yes, it only took 18 calendar days. I was expecting it to take more)
Waiting for I-797 from the lawyer.
Some other details:
Receipt No. – WAC13134507XX
Regular Processing/Advanced Degree.
My sincere thanks to you all and best wishes.
Hi H1-B Approved,
Congratulations! Btw, what was your RFE about and what position? Coz like you, im AD RP, and got RFE recently..and im worried..
Thanks in advance
Hi Andre,
The RFE was about Employer – Employee relations and how the studies/degrees I have completed are relevant for my job. I work as a Business Consultant for one of the top IT companies of the world. I guess the word “consultant” in my designation was confusing for them. After completing my MBA (top – 15 B – school) I am working as a business consultant. Pursuing a career in management consulting after MBA is quite a common path so I was not sure why the second question, but probabaly USCIS was just making sure. Also, I have done my bachelors in computer engineering, hence justification for joining an IT company. Andre, do not worry, just provide them with the documents that they need and answer the question or questions clearly and you will be fine. Do let me know if you have any further questions. All the best.
Thanks so much for your encouraging words H1-B Approved! You have such a great history of credentials. Congratulations again! I really hope I get approval too. My lawyer is currently working on how to answer the rfe.. but my cap-gap is ending soon that’s why I need to work on a back up plan, like goinv back to school this Fall.m you know, just in case.. all the best to you! Thank you for taking time to answer me.
Hi Saurabh,
Finally… my I129 is approved. thank you, this site is of a great help…
I’ve few questions:
1) Whts the next step, Visa stamping? Is there a thread for visa stamping process?
2) What is the best option, go with wife and kid for stamping or get my H1 stamped first and then go for wife and kid later? Do we need any additional docs from employer for wife and kid visas?
Thanks.
Finally after more than 4 months of wait, my h1b is approved
EAC 13-139-5269X. (RQ)
Thanks to this forum for all the support. Best Wishes to all of you.
hi,
Anyone from EXPERIS got RFE ?
Rd,
Kulabs
yes your mom
Hi,
Anyone from EXPERIS got RFE ?
Regards,
Kulaps
yes…..I got ref..experis
HI ,
I also got RFE , experis. date on when it went to RFE
May i know to loc and designation were you selected.
Hi,
even i got RFE. did any one got the reason for the RFE? i got selected for richmond virginia.
Hi,
Mine is vermont. Got RFE on August firstweek.
For Anyone Experis replied to USCIS ?
RD,
Kulaps
I am also selected for the same location and company.
Could you tell your technology?
Hi,
My application is also filled in Vermont. I got selected in java/j2ee tech.
I am selected for Richmond. could you get in touch at Manishk1411 at gmail
Hi Saurabh,
I am working top IT company in India. I received RFE on jul 30th for employer employee relationship. They asked for client letter, sow, msa , jd, payslips etc.
I could not get individual client letter. I was able to get sow and msa. But Sow is expiring next month sep 30th. So I submitted a manager letter stating the sow is extendable along with msa , sow, etc with a initial blanket client letter(its not an individual , its a common letter from client, which I submitted during initial filing)
Is there any possibility of my case being approved. Do you see any problems here since I could not get a individual client and the sow is expiring next month?
Please let me know.
hi,
Anyone from EXPERIS got RFE ?
Rd,
Kulabs
what is EXPERIS ?
Hi,
Anyone from EXPERIS got RFE ?
Rd,
Kulaps
My petition got selected in lottery and pending with USCIS, still waiting for the response. how long we need to wait for the further updates … Is anybody there similar to my case…
Lots of guys in similar situation as you bro.. WAC1314351***.. Mind sharing some digits of your receipt number..
Yes I also have not got any updates yet. My employer does not even share the receipt numbers with us 🙁
Hi All,
Has anyone got any decision on H1B status in EAC1314852 series recently? My application is in initial review from April 8th..it will really help if anyone has some information on the cases for the mentioned series…thanks.
My petition is under RQ/RP.
mine is EAC1314850 and is in review RFE
Hello RG ,
Me too in EAC1314852** series and its still in IR since 8th April . I find 24 cases in IR and only 1 cases is attended on a daily basis. Hoping to get status update by mid of Sep..
My petition is under RQ/RP.
EAC1314853500
Hi All,
My status updated from IR to RFE on 23rd Aug 2913. I am still waiting to hear from my employer on the requested documents. Does anyone applied H1B through PTG(People Tech Group).
My petition is under RQ/RP – IT Field.
Thanks.
God! Too many RFEs now. I am sorry to hear that :/
I am also awaiting Approval/RFE: EAC-13-138-52***
Hi Pankaj,
We got RFE for our Petition. Authority demands some emloyment verification letters. We are still in that process. I remember that you also got RFE for your petition. Wanted to know about your experience about this.
I hope you will reply.
Thanks
Hi All,
I checked USICS site, my case is approved on July 11th lawyer she said she got the approved hard copy after a week gap she send to My Employer. I called my employer they said will give the update once if receive.
At this time they are not willing to give the any kind of documents to me, I called them/sent mails
They are not even responding.
Q:Did they applied my H1B visa? (I got the receipt number with the official form), Can they edit the number on the receipt create a fake number and send to me will this happen? How can I find weather the sent receipt number is mine or not?
Seniors please suggest me ….
Thanks in advance
there is no reason for your employer to withhold your petition docs with them if they have it. May be they want to give it to you at specific time like September so that you can attend interview just in time to come here. normally employers wont fake this.
HI Hari,
Thanks for your comments- 🙂
My H1b petition is approved and is in Decision state series 139520**, I received the approved i-797B and all documents from the employer…. but the status hasn’t moved to PDA on USCIS site, can i schedule visa appointment and attend interview at the consulate? or need to wait until the status move to PDA!! i am asking because USCIS will only send the docs to National Visa centre, once its in PDA? if i attend the interview now and consulate cant find my petition details! it will a problem and leads to unwanted delays….
Seniors in this forum, please advice!
Has anyone got any decision on H1 status in EAC131485 series recently ? My application is in initial review from April 8th..it will really help if anyone has some information on the cases for the mentioned series…thanks
Hi Alpha,
One of my friends(New h1b) petition EAC148* series approved on Aug-1st.
Guest writers needed!
I am looking for one or more people to help me write a detailed article on the new stamping process and experience (especially in India). I was planning to do it myself but work and an upcoming baby is keeping me occupied w/ other things.
If anyone is interested in writing that article, it will be very much appreciated. Please respond to this thread if you are interested.
Thanks
Hi saurabh ,
I would be interested in helping you with ur new thread and i was looking for that thread which speaks more on the present VISA stamping thing in INDIA and i request all the folks to share there experience if they have been for stamping and Yes we all knew ur effort to put the things in this website and i hope every1 gets associated with saurabh one way or the other to help me start a new thread. let me know how u want the things to get started .thanks
My petition number is EAC13137506** and it is under initial review from April 8, is there anyone with the same series waiting for approval?
yeah i am in same series EAC131375****.
IR since 8th April.
Cheers!!
Hi All,
I got H1B visa stamped on 14th Au 2013. In the visa it says that visa issue date-14th Aug 2013. My I-I97 says start date on 1st Oct 2013.
Some of the websites says that I can only travel to US only 10 days prior to 1st OCT. None of the US gov websites mention about this 10 days issue.
My question is can I travel to US on 14th of Sep?
Hi Mr.Samsung123456,
One of my friend got his H1 stamping 2 weeks back. He is travelling to US this Friday. I asked him the same question but he said his Organization said there is no problem in travelling before Oct 1st. But please check with your organization. I will let you know once my friend gets through the Port of Entry 🙂
Thanks.
I will be surprised if there is no question at POE. In the VISA it is clearly mentioned
“NOT VALID FOR TRAVEL UNTIL 21-SEP-2013”
Yes you can travel 10 days before. I have a confirmation email from vfs. You can also email them. Doesn’t your visa marked with “NOT VALID FOR TRAVEL BEFORE 21-SEP-2013” ? If it is this mean earliest you can enter USA on 21-SEP-2013
hi all
did any one attend for visa stamping in malaysia?
hi all
did any one attend for visa stamping in malaysia?plz share ur views here
hi all
did any one attend for visa stamping in malaysia please share ur views here
thank you
not yet, but i am here in KL , contact me kvkh1b at gmail dot com
i am in KL, contact me at kvkh1b at gmail.com
Dear Friends,
My h4-h1 Conversion has been approved today.
EAC131425***
All the best for the friends who are waiting on their approval. 🙂
Hi H4-H1 COS,
I am also on H4 and have applied for H1. I responded to my RFE on June 24th.
Did you get an RFE? If yes, when did you reply to it? Or did you get an approval directly.
Thank You,
H1 AR
I have applied in Regular Processing.. I didn’t get any RFE.. Its approved from Initial review..
hi its almost 60 days u’ve responded to the rfe… did u get any result?
im on my 45th day waiting…
Congrats !! Can you share another 2 digits of u r petition number?
Did they send a client letter for you ?? . Is your employer a small consultancy or a big one ?
Finally, my visa’s approved.
EAC1313751*** AD/regular
Receipt: apr 19
RFE: may 20 (employee-employer shit)
RFE response: July 9
Approved: aug 19
You folks doing a great job, info really helped, good luck
Hi Venkat,
Congrats for your approval. Could you please let us know what are all the docs you submitted. I have also received RFE, but I culd not get individual client letter , so submitted with sow and msa. The current sow expires next month, so I’ve attached a manager letter stating the SOW will be renewed. I am worried if my petition will be denied.
My case H1B-COS WAC13144502** got approved yesterday….first I would like to appreciate this great forum where there is a perfect symbiosis…
I would like everyone who is waiting for the approval to create e-request for their respective case…its a simple process in USCIS website giving your personal details and mailing address….once the USCIS acknowledges the e-request by creating the request id and sending you the mail for the same, your case is taken for processing soon after.
In my case I have created the e-request on 14th August, got first acknowledgement from USCIS on 16th August. Final approval on 19th August.
This might help for those who are waiting. All the best and keep the spirit high.
My case is of RP/WAC/ IT/ 7+ years exp
HI Approved.
Congratulations to you. I wanted the following in regards to e req.
What did you fill in for Date Filed (MM/DD/YYYY) and Zip. did you give the date filed as 8th April and ur zip or companies?
H1KiAag,
Date filed in my case per my I-797C it was 26th April. I have given the zip code of my attorney’s address. In your case it might be the employer’s address code.
Thanks for the reply. Do u mean Date Filed (MM/DD/YYYY) is the NOTICE DATE on 797c? and not Received Date?
I entered date as 04/26/2013….that is notice date. Is there any issue with your e-request?
no issue/s … infact I havent raised one and so was reluctant. I thought that It should be raised by Employer/Attorney. I have all the details to raise it but who gets the update and how. As you said USCIS acknowledged, how did they do? email or USPS mail? and how did you got to know about it. Your employer communicated? As during e-Req they dont ask for email.
I got the ack as e-mail from USCIS, it states the following
Your e-Request confirmation number is: SR12171305813CSC for Form I129 and reported issue of: Beyond Posted Processing Times.
You have successfully submitted an inquiry to USCIS. You can expect to receive a response within 30 days. If you do not receive a response within 30 days, please call USCIS Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283 or 1-800-767-1833 (TTY). You will need to provide the confirmation number listed above when you call.
No I raised the e-request as I already had all the data to be filled in…
Approved and other people, Is it safe to raise an e request as normal processing times are 2 to 6 months and we are well within it?
Will it raise a flag.?
My situation is such that I got to get the approval soon or will have to leave my job (Company not ready to do a PP due to budget constraints)
Also, when did you place an e request and when was it approved? timelines?
Thanks btw
HI,
As I said earlier,
In my case I have created the e-request on 14th August, got first acknowledgement from USCIS on 16th August. Final approval on 19th August.
Also I created the e-request because of CSC timeline to approve I-129 COS is 2 months and my case was pending well above 2 months….
Hi Saurabh / All,
Unfortunately my L1B extension was denied on March 2013. But my organizaton applied for L1 to H1 COS and i got my receipt# EAC 13138512** on Apr 8th and still in Initial Reviews. Currently I am in India for the past 6 months. I have my I140 approved. Will this I140 approval help my H1B application? Is anyone in the same situation? Seems like CoS applications are processing very slow. I have requested my organization to upgrade to PP if there is no reponse by this week.
Thanks.
L1ToH1,
Approved I-140 doesn’t help much w/ H-1 processing as it was approved for a different position than H-1. Also, yours is not COS as you are currently outside US.
Thanks Saurabh. So does that mean mine will be treated as a fresh H1B application?
L1ToH1,
Any petition which is subject to cap is a fresh H-1 application. There is one option in the H-1 application which asks whether it is COS or consular processing. In your case, that was entered as consular processing and not COS. That doesn’t put your application in a different bucket. Still a cap-subject FY-14 application.
Thanks Saurabh. So there would be no issues with my H1B processing as L1 was denied? Hoping it will be taken as a new H1B.
Thanks
Hi Folks,
Attended visa interview about two hours ago with good ending. Thanks to redbus2us site and Saurabh for being there with good info.
Congratz :)….
Share ur experience if possible.
Can u please share ur experience and questions asked so that it will be helpful others.
Congrats!
Hi imsengr ,
A big CONGRATS ,can u plz post the entire eposide how well it went what all questions did the VO asked u ,it would a grt help for all the folks thanks
Hi All,
Sorry for the delay:
Here is my OFC and interview experience:
OFC: 19th August
Documents required: Passport, DS-160 form, Appointment confirmation letter, photo for kid below 14 years.
Despite filling DS-160 in advance and checking wife's date of birth was incorrect. OFC asked to update the DS-160 and come back. To make matters worse, the ceac website was not working. Returned to OFC, they took wife's biometric and asked to bring updated DS-160 to consulate at the time of interview.
Interview: 20th August
Reached at 7:45am, appointment time at 9:00. After breakfast joined queue at 8:15 or so. Thanks to 3 year old daughter bypassed queue.
Documents carried: Passport, DS-160(wifes updated and old), appointment prinout, I-797, I-129 copy, educational certificates(mine and wifes), experience letter, birth certificate(daughters), sealed envelop from US employer(contained client contracts, sealed envelops are not allowed and security asked me to step out and open the envelop and come back), marriage certificate, wedding card, wedding album. BTW, there is small cube where you can place your bags, keys and stuff while geting into the consulate, may be mobile if you trust 🙂 and PHOTO(this you have to carry to consulate)
From security scan to VO it took less than 10 minutes.
Interview:
VO: How are you? Pass the passport.
I like your daughters dress.
American guy with very friendly nature
Me/Wife: Smiled and responded
VO: Which company are you going to join?
Me: Did not hear the question, asked if he was asking the location or the title?
I will be working for XYZ as ABC
VO: He rephrased, the company name?
Me: XYZ
VO: What will you be working as?
Me: ABC
VO: What is your indian salary?
Me: Rs 123
VO: What is the US salary?
Me: USD XXXX
VO: How long have you been married?
Wife: XX Years
VO: Is this your first trip to work in US?
Me: Yes, but i have visited on B1 visa twice
VO: Ok, so you will going there to work for the first time?
Me: Yes
VO: What do you do currently?
Wife: Housewife
Happy ending……
VO: You will get the passport in 4-5 days.
Me: Thank you
VO: Please read the document(White, rights doc)
Me: Thanks, and was about to leave
VO: Please hold on, system is still updating.
Took a minute, he requested us to bear with him.
VO: done now, said bye to daughter.
Daughter: Waved back
So except the passport he asked for no other documents. Like many have said before be confident, calm and smile.
Wish you all the best!
Hi, can we attend visa interview before OCt 1st with the approved H1B petition in-hand ? I thought we can attend only after Oct 1sr or 15 days before Oct1st. Thanks.
Ramia,
You can attend at most 90 days prior to H-1 start date. However, you cannot enter US more than 10 days prior to start date.
Hi Saurabh,
Can you please let me know, where did you find this 10 days entry date? None of the US Gov websites mentioned about this.
Hello Samsung123456,
My visa has mentioned “NOT VALID FOR TRAVEL BEFORE 21-SEP-2013”
Hi Visastamped,
Mine doesn’t say anything like that. It just says the visa issue date which is 12th Aug and expiry date which 2016. I think the 10 days restriction only for Indian passport holders? I am really confuesd…..
PS-I am not an Indian passport holder.
Thanks Saurabh. I am in USA itself. I am planning for India visit in next couple of months. Just wanted to check if I can attend interview in Canada before Oct 1st before travelling to India.
At the first counter in consulate, the lady provided me a document indicating that I cannot travel before Sept 21st. Which is 10 days before Oct 1st.
We Can attend with approved H1B petition.. befor october 1st..
Just got my H1B petition approved, mine was from H4 to H1B.
What all documents shall i expect from my employer and what documents are must have for me.
I797
I94 attached with I797
anything else?
What if employer is not very keen in sending these documents to me, are they supposed to withhold?
What series you are…
What series you are?
Rajeev,
You should have the I-94 for sure as that will govern your status from Oct 1. Some employers keep the 797 w/ themselves, while others hand it over to the employee. You will have to see what your employer plans to do w/ 797.