Once H1B is Filed: What’s Next?
After you’ve successfully filed your H1B visa application, the journey ahead is filled with anticipation and a mix of excitement and anxiety. Understanding what happens next can help you navigate the process more effectively. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect after your H1B is filed.
Tracking Your Application
Once your H1B application is submitted, it’s crucial to keep track of its progress. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides an online tool called “My Case Status” where you can check the status of your application. This tool is accessible through the USCIS website and requires your receipt number to log in.
Here’s what you can expect in terms of tracking your application:
| Status | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Received | Your application has been received by USCIS. |
| Processed | USCIS has started processing your application. |
| Under Review | USCIS is reviewing your application. |
| Request for Evidence (RFE) | USCIS needs additional information to process your application. |
| Approved | Your application has been approved. |
| Denied | Your application has been denied. |
Anticipating the Lottery
For H1B visa applications, USCIS uses a lottery system to select petitions for processing. If your employer’s petition is selected in the lottery, it will move forward to the next stage. If not, you may need to wait for the next fiscal year’s lottery or explore other visa options.
Here’s what you should know about the lottery:
- Lottery Dates: The lottery typically takes place in April for the following fiscal year. For example, the lottery for fiscal year 2024 took place in April 2023.
- Selection Process: USCIS randomly selects petitions from the pool of applications received. The selection is based on the number of petitions filed and the number of available visas.
- Cap Exemptions: Some employers are exempt from the cap, such as government research organizations and institutions of higher education. If your employer falls under this category, your petition is not subject to the lottery.
Preparing for the Interview
Once your H1B application is approved, you will receive an appointment for an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The interview is a crucial step in obtaining your H1B visa.
Here’s what you should do to prepare for the interview:
- Review the Interview Guide: The embassy or consulate will provide you with an interview guide outlining the required documents and information.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, application form, photograph, and any other documents specified in the interview guide.
- Practice Your Answers: Be prepared to answer questions about your employment, education, and background.
Visa Stamping and Travel
After your interview, if your visa is approved, you will receive a visa stamp in your passport. This stamp allows you to travel to the United States and begin working on your H1B visa.
Here’s what you should do after receiving your visa:
- Book Your Flight: Schedule your flight to the United States, ensuring you have enough time to adjust to the new environment.
- Prepare for Arrival: Familiarize yourself with the entry requirements and any health screenings you may need to undergo upon arrival.
- Notify Your Employer: Inform your employer of your arrival date and any additional information they may need.
Conclusion
Once your H1B is filed, the process may seem daunting,
