Navigating the H1B visa process can be a daunting experience, especially in 2020 where changes in policies and procedures have made the journey even more complex. With the USCIS introducing electronic registrations and a lottery system, waiting for your H1B receipt notice becomes a period of anticipation and anxiety. Here are five signs that might indicate you're on your way to receiving your H1B receipt:
1. You’ve Been Notified for Payment Submission
After the initial electronic registration, if your employer receives a notice to submit payment, it’s a positive sign. This indicates that your registration was selected in the lottery and you’re now proceeding to the next phase:
- Your employer will need to submit the full H1B visa petition filing fee.
- This step usually requires a swift response to keep within the deadlines set by the USCIS.
📌 Note: Make sure your employer promptly pays the fees to avoid any delay or forfeiture of your spot.
2. Your Employer or Attorney Received an I-797C Notice
The I-797C is a notice from the USCIS which serves multiple purposes, one of which is to confirm the receipt of your H1B petition:
- This notice includes a receipt number that you can use to track your case status online.
- It will also contain important dates like the notice date and the action date.
3. USCIS Case Status Shows “Received”
Checking the status online with the receipt number provided in your I-797C can give you real-time updates:
- The status “Received” signifies that the USCIS has processed your initial filing.
- This step indicates that your petition is now in the queue for further processing.
4. You Have a Scheduled Biometric Appointment
One of the steps in the H1B visa process includes providing biometrics:
- Receiving an appointment notice for providing fingerprints and having your photo taken is a clear sign that your application is moving forward.
- The appointment is typically scheduled a few weeks after the USCIS receives your petition.
5. Lawyer or Employer Confirms Progress
Your employer or your lawyer acts as an intermediary between you and the USCIS, so any updates or confirmations from them can be crucial:
- They might inform you about the progress of your case or any requests for evidence (RFE).
- They’ll also keep you updated on any communications or notices from the USCIS.
Recapping these signs, you’re on the right path if:
- You’re notified to submit payment after registration.
- You receive an I-797C notice.
- Your online case status shows “Received”.
- You have a biometric appointment scheduled.
- Your lawyer or employer confirms progress in your case.
While these signs are indicators of progress in the H1B process, remember that delays, requests for additional information, or even rejections can occur at any step. It's advisable to stay in close communication with your employer or legal representative to keep abreast of any changes or requirements. Patience and preparation are key when dealing with immigration processes, especially in this ever-changing landscape. Keep an eye out for any updates from the USCIS, maintain your documents in order, and stay proactive in managing your H1B journey for 2020.
What should I do if I haven’t received any of these signs?
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Stay in touch with your employer or attorney. Sometimes updates can take time, but persistent communication is key.
Can the biometric appointment be rescheduled?
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Yes, you can reschedule your biometric appointment if necessary, but it’s better to attend on the scheduled date to avoid delays.
How long does it take to receive the H1B receipt after payment submission?
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Typically, it takes about 2-4 weeks, but times can vary based on USCIS workload and other variables.
What if my online case status never changes?
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Reach out to your lawyer or employer for clarification. Sometimes, the online system can lag or have inaccuracies.
