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USCIS News Alert : H1B 2016 Premium Processing from April 27th

As you know, yesterday USCIS released an official press note indicating that they received about 233,000 petitions and H1B lottery was completed. As of yesterday,  USCIS indicated that the premium processing will begin no later than May 11th, 2015.

Today, USCIS released a news alert indicating that the premium processing for H1B Visa 2016 petitions will start from April 27th, 2015.

What does this change in premium processing date mean to everyone in H1B 2016 quota ? 

It simply means that, if someone filed their H1B petition in FY 2016 quota under either in masters quota or regular quota and filed it under premium processing their 15 days clock for adjudicating the petition starts from April 27th.  Technically, if everything was right and there is no RFE they should have a decision within 15 calendar days starting from April 27th, which would be May 11th.

So, technically, premium processing candidates for FY 2016 should receive their H1B case petition numbers/ receipt notices starting anytime from today via email.  They should ideally have H1B case number by April 28th or 29th. USCIS might take some more time to release the case number or receipt notices for the regular processing petitions, as there is no SLA or time commitment.

This clearly tells us that the number of premium processing petitions filed this year were more or less same as last year and not too many filed under premium processing as USCIS anticipated. They adjusted the dates based on the work load they have.  Also, with the push in the premium processing dates, hopefully, regular processing candidates petitions are processed slightly faster as well…lets hope so !

Also, they indicated in the press note that no changes to the premium processing petitions filed that are cap-exempt. Their processing continues to stick to the 15 calendar days starting from the day USCIS received the petition with the fee. Also, you may read the below to clarify on the processing times.

H1B 2016 Premium, Regular Processing time, Receipts Info

What are your thoughts on the H1B processing timelines by USCIS ?

Reference : USCIS Alert on Premium processing

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Author
Satheesh Kumar Ilu
Satheesh Kumar Ilu, commonly known as Kumar, is the founder of RedBus2US.com. He is an Immigration and Study Abroad expert. He holds an MS from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. He studied, lived, and worked in the U.S. and Singapore for nearly two decades, and has traveled to over 25 countries.

   

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2,861 Comments

  1. Got “Change of Status – Pending” from my DSO, but no information from the lawyers.
    I also got the receipt number from my DSO, and I checked in the USCIS – Case Status website and that’s what it says:
    “On April 14, 2015, we received your request for premium-processing of your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EACXXXXXXXXXX, and mailed you a receipt notice. Your premium-processing receipt notice contains contact information for direct inquiries on your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you move, contact the premium-processing unit directly to update your address.”
    My lawyer said “Unfortunately, the USCIS update system does not show the name of the person to whom the petition corresponds, so we have to wait for receipt notice”.

    Nothing is guaranteed, even if you got the “Change of status – pending” from your DSO.

    I am PP/AD/VT with OPT expiring before Oct 1st.

    Reply
    • I did not received anything from attorney too. I just got the information from DSO that sevis is updated to change of status pending. They did not give me any receipt number. Why did you say not guarantee. Are you saying even change of status does not mena we are picked..are bhagwaan!! I did not have sleep since a week thinking about this..please confirm..

      Reply
      • “If the receipt number received by USCIS corresponds to your case, then it is likely the H-1B. Unfortunately, the USCIS update system does not show the name of the person to whom the petition corresponds. So I can’t confirm until I see a receipt notice”.

        Reply
          • Got my receipt number guys.. AD/PP/VT.

            DSO confirmed with “Change of Status – Pending” and “Receipt #”

            Good luck guys.. God bless all 🙂

          • Congrats Nick. Change of ststus means I am picked right? My univ did not give me receipt number. I send them an email. Did not hear back from them. Please confirm whether my application is picked or not?

  2. I am AD/PP/VSC, and I just received email from my attorney that they’ve got an email from VSC this morning. My PP check was encashed last Friday.

    Reply
  3. Hi Guys,

    If SEVIS status says “Active” but it also states that EAD has been extended until Sept 30th 2015 and a Change of Status is pending, does this mean that application got picked in the lottery?

    Does USCIS extend the EAD to 30th Sept for everybody who has filed for H1B and has an OPT expiring before October 1st? Just confirming.

    Thanks ahead of time for your response!

    Reply
    • I am AD/PP/VT. No updates/emails from USCIS to my employer yet. I called the University and DSO said – “H1B Filed” as status and so she said that your STEM is extended (Cap Gap). What to understand by this ? Picked or not ?

      Do they update every petition (with cap gap?) when they receive or just those which were picked ???

      My employer said that they won’t do any hard work to update anything in case if you are not selected. So this should mean that you were selected.

      What do you say ?

      Reply
  4. Contacted ISSO. My SEVIS is updated to “Change of status pending” as of April 17th.
    Does this mean my packed is picked? Please let me know. Thank you.
    This forum helped me a lot!!

    Reply
  5. Hi guys, I am soooooooo excited my DSO told me today that I got approved for a cap gap extension and hence made the lottery! I am non-AD/PP/Vermont

    Reply
    • Congrats !!! I am AD/PP/VT. No updates/emails from USCIS to my employer yet. I called the University and DSO said – “H1B Filed” as status and so she said that your STEM is extended (Cap Gap). What to understand by this ? Picked or not ?

      Do they update every petition (with cap gap?) when they receive or just those which were picked ???

      My employer said that they won’t do any hard work to update anything in case if you are not selected. So this should mean that you were selected.

      What do you say ?

      Reply
      • My STEM extensions expires before October 1st. Hence, why my status changed to cap gap extension approved. My DSO informed me that the SEVIS status changed and that there is a receipt number attached to it. So I would suggest talk to your DSO and have him/her give you the receipt number, that way you know for sure.

        Reply
  6. Hi guys,
    Finally my employer called today and said both checks are encashed as of now (PP and H1b fee) no email receipt yet. Mine is PP/AD Vermont and on f1 opt ext ending in dec.
    Last week was so intense and I Feel so relieved that I am gonna lock my room, turn off my phone and sleep. Be positive and I hope you all get thru this illogical lottery .

    Reply
  7. Good news for all of us. This is a real case, I just heard from my friend. She call 7036033400, her status is ACTIVE and nothing changed. She was upset and complaining to us. One hour later, she got lawyer’s email, she was selected. She is AD/PP/Vermont.

    ACTIVE doesn’t mean anything, especially when your current OPT Card expires after October 1st, 2015. Because you don’t need a CAP-GAP, so your status will not change.

    God bless and we are selected! Work Hard!

    Reply
    • I am AD/PP/VT. No updates/emails from USCIS to my employer yet. I called the University and DSO said – “H1B Filed” as status and so she said that your STEM is extended (Cap Gap). What to understand by this ? Picked or not ?

      Do they update every petition (with cap gap?) when they receive or just those which were picked ???

      My employer said that they won’t do any hard work to update anything in case if you are not selected. So this should mean that you were selected.

      What are your opinions guys ?

      Reply
  8. Got the official mail from Vermont center!!

    Not email but is mail…
    VSC PP ADV
    Money processed last Thursday.
    Received on Apr 13, notice sent on Apr 14

    Bless all!!!

    Reply
  9. Just got a mail for School DSO office, mentioning the Sevis Status say “Change of Status” with the receipt no. Checked the receipt no and its legitimate, still not sure about this because i have not heard anything from my Employer or attorney yet.
    Just wanted to confirm that my petition is selected in the lottery correct?? Also FYI my case is AD/PP/VT (not sure if its VT)

    Reply
  10. Hi – Any AD/RP applicants have their Sevis record updated already? I called my DSO this morning and she said that there haven’t been any updates on my VISA status. This may be too soon, but I just can’t take the tension !!

    Reply
  11. Hi guys,

    I am in the same boat with most of you. I have a really serious question though and I hope someone could answer it.

    I’m currently in New York but my job offer is from a school located in California (the job starts in July). But the law firm/agency my employer used filed my application to Vermont Center. Will this affect my chance in the lottery/application processing?

    Thanks and good luck to y’all.

    Reply
    • i know these few days are the most nerver wracking days but Calm yourself down, there can be delays in receiving your receipt numbers depending on the center yet your chances of getting picked does not depend on the service center but your luck. good luck.

      Reply
  12. ***UPDATE 4/20/15 – We started receiving hard copy receipt notices in the mail from Vermont Service Center for premium processing masters cap cases. All the receipts were dated April 13th. Still no emails from VSC premium****

    Reply
  13. Called SEVIS center again, they said they dont have change of status information. Has anyone here was told by SEVIS center about change of status?

    They directed me to ask USCIS

    Reply
  14. I called again my school..and they said cant check that unless I provide receipt number. I am not sure how other people are getting their checked through school

    Reply
  15. If SEVIS people tell you your status is ACTIVE, doesn’t mean you didn’t get picked. It’s either ACTIVE or INACTIVE. Even if it’s pending, it’s still ACTIVE.

    Also, I think if your EAD card expires after OCT this year you wont be eligible for CAP-GAP; hence no changes to SEVIS.

    correct me if I’m wrong.

    Reply
    • Totally agree with you. Thats what we discussed and heard from others. I think this makes sense. if you have a OPT EAD Card expiring after 10/1/2015. Your status will always be ACTIVE, because you don’t need a CAP-GAP, and your SEVIS will not change.

      AD/PP/VERMONT

      Reply
      • If you have active OPT status and your H1 gets picked up in the lottery, the SEVIS status will be changed to ” Change of Status “

        Reply
          • I called school and SEVIS center both, none of they said have any way of telling me anything about change of status. School said they need receipt number do to that. SEVIS center said they have no way of knowing anything about change of status update, which they said can only be done through USCIS

          • It is very unlikely they will share that information with you. As many people have already tried.

            I believe it’s
            active status/inactive status -> change of status/e.t.c

            So it’s more like a tree.

      • HULK is correct.

        It will explicitly say “Change of Status”.

        If it says ACTIVE, it’s not selected OR data entry is pending.

        Reply
    • If you are selected in lottery your SEVIS is updated with EAC/WAC receipt number. Literally the receipt number can be seen on SEVIS by DSO

      Reply
  16. check cashed last Friday, and got receipt this morning. did not get select last year, last train this year…AD/PP/VT
    I think the best way to check is ask your company if the check cashed. they always cashed first then doing the receipt. I think that’s the best way to know the answer.
    well. best luck for everyone still waiting

    Reply
    • Congrats, Does the check clearance happens even for the Regular guys also along with the PP or Should I wait till the PP closes.

      Reply
      • I think they are going to do the PP first since…it cost 1225 bucks.. and then the Regular I think they are going to do the same thing. 1 cash the check then send receipt(mail I think).

        Reply
  17. PEOPLE!! If you are in a hurry to assume the worst go ahead and assume that you didnt get it this year!! Stop freaking asking “should i assume this and that?”. People have no patience these days. Cant u wait until this friday to assume the end of the world?

    Reply
    • To “Irritated”: Please be respectful. This is an open forum. Everyone is entitled to voice their concern. We are all here to help/guide/ support each other through this trying phase of awaiting lottery results. If you are “Irritated” by people asking about their fate, please choose to ignore and not vent your frustration on others! Thanks.

      Reply
      • Am i not entitled to my frustration because of all the negativity spreading around here? As long as im not abusing anyone i’m well within my limits. Why dont you choose to ignore my comment instead?

        Reply
        • You sounded positive… Nothing wrong 🙂 loll… I am non-AD-PP-Cali …. No news yet. Mailed my employer , yet to get any reply!!! I dont hear much about california …… Will wait for employer to confirm on something !
          Lets wait and check what the time machine (or lottery machine) has in store for us..

          Reply
          • Thanks 🙂 i’m waiting too. Just sent another email to my attorney. Fingers crossed. Best of luck to you.

    • From MURTHY forum LATEST UPDATE:-

      Attorney_6
      20 Apr 2015
      Vermont’s PP email system was down, so, as of the 17th, none of the email notices went out.

      While email notices do come pretty quickly, there is a data entry component involved. Thus, so far (not including what we may receive today), it has just been a trickle.

      No one should assume anything right now. Last year, we got approvals for some PP cases before others even got receipts.

      Reply
      • I cannot share the URL for some reason.. But you can find the post in Murthy.com> Forums > topic of the week > H1B Cap updates

        Reply
  18. I just called the SEVIS Office, they told me my status is Active and I’ve a CAP-GAP request pending.
    Does the CAP-GAP request pending means that my case has been picked in the lottery and is pending a decision?

    Thanks!

    Reply
  19. Hi all .. my employer told he received only 4 receipts out of 20 so far. in that list mine is not in. shall I assume mine is gone case. please share your thought.

    Reply
  20. Called SEVIS centre..they said my status is active but she said she wont tell me about change of status..I have to call USCIS. Ditto with my school..she said I am on STEM extension and therefore status is active..I don’t know what does that mean because I applied for STEM extension before my H1B was filed..so school issued me STEM extension I 20.

    I am AD/PP/Vermont. To best of my knowledge there has not been even a single receipt from Vermont for AD/PP.

    Reply
    • Exactly same situation as you. Called SEVIS refer me to call USCIS, DSO won’t tell anything. No news from attorney, can’t check the cash as the company paid for. AD/VT/PP desperate….

      Reply
      • What did the SEVIS office tell you? Did they say that you’re in “Active” status? Did they tell you anything about your Cap-Gap request or pending COS request?

        Reply
    • Hey…No it does not mean game over! I had the same concern, AD/PP/VSC and SEVIS status still active. On another forum, someone responded to me with this:
      “The details on the SEVIS status are a little fuzzy. I think, SEVIS is updated when your case is entered into the system (i.e. online case status can be seen). Not sure if it is before or after an email is sent. ”

      If you’re VSC, i’d definitely not give up hope!! They haven’t sent any email receipts yet. And are snail mailing them. Snail mail takes some time. So keep an eye out for an update from the lawyer/employer this week 🙂

      Reply
  21. I called the sevis number 7036033400, they told me my sevis status is “active” and nothing else. I guess I was not selected. I start to lose hope…..

    Vermont/AD/PP

    Heart broken. God, please help me.

    Reply
  22. Hello All,

    Good Morning. If you’d like to know the visa status/ any kind of SEVIS update. Please call (703) 603-3400.
    Go with the options 1,2 and 1.
    Hope this helps.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • The contact number I provided doesn’t give you SEVIS update. I called just now. That’s related to DHS (studyinthestates.dhs.gov).
      If you ‘d like to call USCIS : here is the contact # 1800-375-5283.

      Thanks

      Reply
      • For H1 B case update, only the employer can call and check with USCIS right?
        I am AD/PP/VSC. No update from employer yet, so called SEVIS response center today. My status is still ACTIVE. Should I still be hopeful or is it clear that i didnt make the lottery?

        Reply
      • Yes, I’m sorry about that. I called them just now and they asked me to contact USCIS.
        I’m still waiting on AD/PP/CA.

        I’m not sure if I can still hope!!!
        very disappointed and nervous!!!

        Reply
    • Just so you know, I am in the same boat as you are, My application should be sent to VT, Its a PP/Non-AD.
      I think I will wait until EOD tomorrow ( i.e. Tuesday ), and thats when I will accept my fate i guess, at this point of time I am in the denial phase, then comes anger, eventually acceptance kicks in I guess.

      Reply
      • Same case brah, I haven been waiting for something from Vermont but up to now nothing. I don’t understand maybe Vermont processed couple of caps and that’s it ???

        Non-AD/PP/Vermont

        Reply
  23. Good morning subscribers,

    Its going to be a good day. Results should be out from rest of the centers and more PP petitions should be rolled out. I hope they start Regular processing soon.

    I am on OPT, Its my last attempt advance degree with regular processing.

    I look back and see how it was difficult to find an employers who file H1b visa . I never thought it would come to fate rather being your skills.

    On other hand i see people/Cousins approaching Consultancies and they fake resumes (Bout 7 Pages), getting proxy interviews and getting a job. And important part is they think its right thing to do. The contractor file H1b visa right away. I hope this thing stop. Contractor ship is alright this forging resumes and proxy interviews. Leaves me speechless.

    I don’t know what the lottery outcome will be, But still i will be mad at candidates faking resumes and interviews.

    I guess you have to cheat t to live your “American dream”.

    I wish true applications get selected.

    I was a fool, took my debts lightly thinking H1b will be approved bought dad a car and renovated my house in India. I am looking for other countries to work for future (Any suggestions seniors ).

    I think it happens for a reason and the reason is good.

    All the best rest of all. I am out of here.

    Reply
    • Very well said! But the specific group of people that fake resumes, apply through multiple fake consultancies are all shameless, and do not know what ethics means. I have personally interviewed a lot of these fakes, most of them coming from the specific state and graduated (again fake) from the same University. If we ask them to come on skype in the middle of a telephonic interview, they will immediately have network issues!!
      Good luck with your selection!

      Reply
    • Your posting moved me.
      I also wish you all the best and may God bless you on your true good heart.

      Keep up the good work bro.

      Reply
    • I completely support your point of view? I want to raise this issue with USCIS and the US Government. What do you think is the best way? Any suggestions? Why doesn’t USCIS do anything about these consultancies?

      Reply
    • I completely support your point of view. I want to raise this issue with USCIS and the US Government. What do you think is the best way? Any suggestions? Why doesn’t USCIS do anything about these consultancies?

      Reply
      • Seriously people, let us figure out a way to screw these consultancies. I worked my ass off for my masters. Graduated with 3 genuine job offers. Now my fate is stuck with this stupid lottery. All because of these consultancies. Lets sign a petition and ask the uscis to look into this matter. Its my last chance and if i dont get selected in the lottery this week, my time here is over.

        Reply
    • I have seen people getting H1b visas on the basis of fake degree certificates, the consultancies will produce any document. Something has to be done to get these fake consultancies exposed.

      Reply
  24. Hi , can anyone tell me about Sevis update ? Will Sevis update be done regardless of whether your opt expiration is before and after oct 1st? I am sure it gets updated for people who have opt expiration before oct 1st. I am jus wondering about people who have expiration date after oct 1st and yet can see pending Sevis status ?? Could you please confirm ?

    Reply
  25. Is it confirmed that no receipt emails have been sent out from Vermont till now on 20th morning US time before start of day?
    Does anybody know why or what is the issue with Vermont sending out email receipts?
    Waiting for Non AD/PP/VSC

    Reply
  26. The Plan B:

    If its yours last attempt on OPT, here are the few options.

    1) This works if your company has overseas office, just go and work there for 1yr this will give you the option to apply again for next year or come back on J-visa(No lottery) if again you are unlucky .

    2) Doing 2nd masters and getting another chance, but here since you are not working full time for at 1 yr(if to be legal, PPL say you can work from day 1 but they also warn you of future complications at stamping so decide based on that) you need to plan for that. Also find a employer willing to file for you even when you do your masters/studying.But expect same competition next year too unless there’s changes to US Immigration system.

    3)If you have done PHD search for non -profit companies, best bet work as a lecturer/researcher but this is complete detour of what you what to do.(if not from India/China you have good shot at getting GC in few months).

    4)Look for opportunities in other good countries where pay is good, getting there citizenship(relatively easy) there will open doors to USA like Canada.

    5) Go home and create your dream world there

    Any other strategy would be appreciated.

    Reply
    • Forgot to add my best bet, its number 1. Ya you will be stuck with the same company, but well you can be back in a year or so. Consider the lost year as vacation in some exotic country.

      Hmm choosing your company is also very imp and having good relations with them too.

      Reply
      • we can do all option. Now I am doing last option. Back to my country, got a great salary job and position, but I still want to go back to U.S for better future for my kids.

        always money issue, not the time.

        Reply
      • That is exactly what I did. I am back home enjoying a 1 year vacation. Its wonderful spending time with family. Lottery rejection turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Plus I know a few friends whose visa got rejected, and they started their own startup here. India is the #1 hub for startups these days. Many friends I know are not even interested in re-applying for H1b since life is good… even better than US in many ways.

        Reply
        • I agree with you but… I did my masters for reputed college and worked on h1b for 3 years and came back. I loved staying with family and attending every small function. But after 5 years I somehow miss US and want to go back for my family didn’t experience it. This is my 3rd attempt from India. Tensed but not worried as I have a great job.

          Reply
          • Hmm, I would say apply for L1 through a company, preferable in manager role that way your GC would be quick. If american life is what you are after Canada and some European countries should do.

    • If money is an issue for 2nd masters try finding a co signer for a student loan. For graduate students you can get CPT after 1 semester I think.

      Reply
      • why waste money or get in debt to do second masters ? just work outside US and ask your employer to file H1 and L1 next year. In the meantime you will at least earn money and if every thing goes south even after that you still have a job unlike 2nd masters, whats the next option if you don’t get even after that? The no:of appli seems to be breaking records year after year

        Reply
        • I am in same situation, it was freaking hard to find employer who can sponsor me. however the employer and myself waiting for 27% chance of result. i do not know if he can sponsor me next year or not. btw that is the best legal way

          Reply
      • That was me in 2013. I went back to school for US Masters, otherwise I would have gone home. Now, it is the same game all over again..

        Reply
    • It is not over until it is over. It is over on April 27. Please don’t spread rumors and panic.

      If you don’t get it by April 24, y then start losing hope.
      Mine is third attempt and AD/non-PP/VT.
      I am optimistic.

      Reply
  27. I know lots of info. in bits & pieces, may agree that all receipts of PP are generated but it’s tough to believe that they have conveyed officially the same to lawyer or employer through mails..Immigration lady blog confirms that they have received 1-2 Non-AD PP receipts/mails till now and my employer (one of the big 4) have not seen any official receipt no’s/emails till now for PPs.

    So don’t create panic with partial information, if you are informed about check clearance, plz do mention that and if you have received mail, then mention that as well. Thanks

    Reply
    • law360.com/articles/644658/data-entry-for-h-1b-premium-processing-cases-done-soon

      This is the link giving information about pp cases.
      Even I am non-AD/PP/Cali with one of the big 4 employers. Some of my friends have received confirmation from Fragomen.
      In case someone have entire article, please share.

      Reply
    • Thank you! Was getting tired of the speculations and misinformation floating around. Some people even went on to say they received regular processing receipts! Thank you for reiterating it! 🙂

      Reply
    • Ive been waiting non-AD/pp result too.
      some of fake comment really freak me out. so please do not fake ppl. lets just wait and pray.

      Reply
      • Not fake comments.
        Precisely information is incomplete.
        If anyone can use official email id & get the article, it will be really helpful.
        Thanks.

        Reply
  28. Does some one have an idea, when can we get to know the non-AD, RP , receipt status.. considering the past years exp…( mine through applied from company so there is no opportunity of encash stauts in Bank for my self alone)

    Reply
  29. Hi everyone, my petition got selected. Advanced degree/ premium processing. My HR confirmed me that she have received the email from Fragomen. I would like to thank redbus2us for clarifying all my doubts through out this process. Wish you all good luck.

    Reply
    • Can you please confirm if we started getting email receipts for Non-AD, premium processing from Vermont?
      Someone mentioned about Vermont emailing system being down, so is there any news on that if it was resolved or when it would start sending out emails?

      Reply
  30. Hi, my company applied under AD/pp, probably Vermont center. No news from lawyer but I got a mail that one of my dependent’s H4 application is being processed. Does this mean my application was selected in lottery.

    Reply

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