h1b visa 2016 lottery completed
H1B Visa

H1B Visa 2016 Cap Count – USCIS Returning H1B Package – May 6, 2015

Track the latest H1B Visa 2016 cap count updates in this page as that are announced by USCIS or new data is updated at H1B Visa Tracker.

April 7, 2015 –  Cap Reached
H1B Visa 2016 Cap Reached

Breaking News – H1B Visa 2016 cap has been reached.

There’s no update from USCIS on total H1B Visa 2016 cap count.

The most surprising part is they news came even before close of business of April 7, 2015.

Please stay tuned for more details.

 

Here’s the latest news update

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reached the congressionally mandated H-1B cap for fiscal year (FY) 2016. USCIS has also received more than the limit of 20,000 H-1B petitions filed under the U.S. advanced degree exemption.

USCIS will use a computer-generated process, also known as the lottery, to randomly select the petitions needed to meet the caps of 65,000 visas for the general category and 20,000 for the advanced degree exemption.

USCIS will first randomly select petitions for the advanced degree exemption. All unselected advanced degree petitions will become part of the random selection process for the 65,000 general limit. The agency will reject and return filing fees for all unselected cap-subject petitions that are not duplicate filings.

Before running the lottery, USCIS will complete initial intake for all filings received during the filing period, which ended April 7. Due to the high number of petitions, USCIS is not yet able to announce the date it will conduct the random selection process.

This is breaking news update. Once I have more details, I will update in this page.

April 13, 2015  – Cap Count 

  • 2300,000 Total H1B Visa Applications
  • Lottery Completed.

Here’s the update from USCIS

233000 h1b visa applications

 

April 14, 2015 – Premium Processing 

  • USCIS revised Premium Processing  Start Date
  • Premium Processing to begin from April 27, 2015 ( not May 11, 2015)
  • Applies to both General and Advanced Degree Cap.

h1b 2016 premium processing april 27
April 14, 2015 – Premium Receipts

  • Premium processing receipt  numbers are coming from USCIS to attorneys.

This is breaking news update. Stay tuned for more news about receipt numbers and lottery results.

April 21, 205 – Non-Premium Processing Receipts

h1b 2016 advanced degree regular processing

April 22, 2015 

  • Advanced Degree, Regular Processing Receipt Numbers started coming in

April 23, 2015

  • Receipt numbers via SEVIS ID record is not available due to high volume of requests

sevis id h1b receipt number

H1B Data Entry is Complete – May 5, 2015

Data Entry is Complete. Which means they have generated Receipt Numbers for all selected H1B Visa petitions.

In next few days ( maximum one week) all the receipt numbers will be mailed out. If you don’t get receipt numbers in next few days, then you are out of luck.

Here’s the News Release and Twitter Update

h1b data entry uscis

h1b data entry is complete

May 6, 2015 – H1B Return Package Reported

  • First report of H1B Package returned from USCIS was reported on May 6, 2015
  • Here’s the screenshot of comment posted by a reader

h1b package returned

June 25, 2015 – Package Returns are Slow

  • Several H1B Visa applicants are waiting for Packages back
  • Only few applicants reported H1B package with VRN number.

 

Next – Track Your H1B Application Status at H1B Visa Tracker.


 

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673 Comments

  1. Hi Raghu

    I am currently on H4 pursuing my masters full time and my university is offering CPT for my course. So I am planning to change my status to F1.

    My problem now is : My spouse switched employer and his H1B Transfer along with my H4 is pending, so will I be able to submit our previous I94 from his previous employer(which is valid till January 2017) along with the receipt of the current petition? Or should I wait until the current petition is approved before I apply for my change of status.

    Kindly request your guidance on this and really appreciate your response. Thanks and Have a great day!

  2. Hi Raghu / all,

    Last character in my name is missing as per receipt notice and approval notice. My name consists of 23 characters. But in the I-129 form filed by my employer the name is correct.

    I am planning to go for stamping. Could it be an issue at stamping. Please advise.

  3. Mine got converted to PP and got approved. Below is what the immigration team has to say when I asked about documents…

    “Premium Processing does not affect the sending of USCIS notices”…

    Is that correct ?

  4. Status changed from ‘Case Received’ to ‘My Document was mailed’.

    Can someone tell me what this means ?

    This is a fresh H1B visa picked in lottery. I-129 form.

  5. Hi Raghu,

    Mine is still in ‘Case Received’ status. Do I need to worry if there is anything wrong done by my employer / attorney in filing the case like wrong cheque amount or some wrong filing because of which USCIS has put my case aside….little tense since it is about 5 month now and no progress…still see my case in status ‘Case Received’.

      1. Fortunately mine is from World’s top 3 software service companies.

        Do you have answer now for my question or concern ?

  6. Hi Raghu / folks,

    I was told by my employer that my case has been upgraded to Premium. Will I see any change in the wording on the USCIS case status site for my case….something like ‘your case has been converted to premium’ ?

      1. I asked my immigration team same thing when they told me that my request for PP upgrade has been shipped. I asked them if USCIS will send any acknowledgement saying that the request for PP upgrade has been received or something like that and the response from my immigration guy was ‘NO’. He even said that the case number which starts with WAC will remain same even after PP upgrade.

        And since I am working in a big MNC, and there is a mail communication in which immigration guy has clearly mentioned that in 15 – 17 we should hear a response,….I am thinking they might not be giving false information . And now your with your answer Raghu, I am little worried and confused because I know you are very knowledgeable guy in this subject and widely followed by many like me. Not sure,….fingers crossed.

  7. Thanks Raghu.

    One last question on this….Yesterday my employer said he will upgrade my case to PP but now when I asked them if it has been done then I got a reply that ‘it takes several days to upgrade case to Premium. You will be emailed’ .

    Does it take several days or my employer is trying to buy time ? And also, if it really takes time then any idea how many days it might take. And also, will I get a new receipt number once the case is upgraded to Premium or I will have the old receipt number only for tracking ?

    Thanks in advance.

      1. Thanks Raghu.

        One last question….Yesterday my employer said he will upgrade my case to PP but now when I asked them if it has been done then I got a reply that ‘it takes several days to upgrade case to Premium. You will be emailed’ .

        Does it take several days or my employer is trying to buy time ? And also, if it really takes time then any idea how many days it might take.

        Thanks in advance.

  8. Hi Raghu / Folks

    Since my status is still is ‘Case Received’, my employer is planning to convert it to ‘Premium Processing’ as client expects me to travel asap.

    Now with premium processing, I know the approval or RFE has to happen in 15 days. But my question is, …

    1) if I assume the approval happens without RFE, …then how many days will it take for my employer
    to receive the soft copy/hard copy of my petition from USCIS. Will it be same time-line like normal processing ?

    2) if I assume there is a RFE, will my employer receive the RFE details faster with Premium processing mode or it will same time-line like normal processing ?

    Basically I am looking for the time-lines here.

    Thanks in advance.

    1. Premium processing – Results will come within 15 business days. Approval notice takes about 2 to 5 days after that to reach your attorney or employer.

      1. Thanks Raghu.

        Any idea how many hours/days it will take for converting normal to premium. And also, will I have any clue if it has been converted or not or just have to believe my immigration team ? Thanks in advance.

      1. Nothing,…except that you need to pay more (1250$) to know your result in 15 days (assuming there is no RFE) ….. It just helps you plan better.

        Like there are few cases which are still in “Case Received”, like mine. If I need to travel in October then I most probably cant now….had I gone for PP then I would have most certainly made it.

        In one line : PP helps you plan better.

  9. Hi Raghu / Folks,

    Below are some of my questions/doubts. Your inputs/suggestions please.

    1) Will it not be possible to get visa interview slot immediately ?
    Because, one of my colleague told me that for entire month of October there is no slot.

    2) Is there any premium processing kind of way where I can get slot for a much earlier date ?

    3) At this point, cant my employer change the visa interview consulate location,..lets say like from Chennai to Hyderabad or Delhi if slots are available there ?

    1. Visa slots open up at any given time. So, you have to keep checking.
      There’s no premium processing for visa interview.

  10. Hi Raghu,

    My wife applied for h1b visa through some consultancy and her consultancy says still they have not recieved the package yet(as on 08/27/2015). As per the USCIS website, they have completed sending return package to all on July 14 for those not picked in lottery. But consultancy even today saying not received the package. Please let me know what migth be the issue ? or is consultancy lieng and trying to cheat us ? I am really worried. Please provide your valuable inputs.

    Thanks,
    Shiva

    1. @Shivakumar – When you decided to apply for H1B via consultant, you are agreeing to deal with the package of “problems”. This is one such.

      Are they Lying or USCIS haven’t returned the package – No one can help you with that answer. Unfortunately.

  11. Hi,

    I have applied to H1B through my company during the time of July 2015. My manager is telling that the results will be announced on Sept or Oct 2015. How come that will be possible. Because H1B lottory will happen during April right. Is there anyway to process in middle also. Please let me know the process of this Sept selection/lottory.

    Thanks
    Anusha

  12. 233,000 H1B Visa 2016 Applications. Can you Believe That?

    Say good bye when Donald Trump gets into office — H1B IS KILLING AMERICAN JOBS.

  13. Hi Raghu,

    Is there an onus on USCIS to change the status of the petition to something like approved or RFE or Denied, etc before September 30th. I am not talking here about the approval,..I am talking about any some change of the status from ‘Case Received’.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        I am waiting for case review and approval to be completed. My employer filed H1B petition from Seattle, probably I am start my job in Texas with my current employer. Can you please help me understand, apart from the LCA filing is there any other restriction that H1B holder has to work with company who filed petition for minimum 3 months before switching to new location.

        Regards
        Chethan

  14. Hi Raghu

    My application got transferred 2 times and getting below message while tracking status.Any idea about this status and why this happened.

    On August **, 2015, your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number **************, was transferred to another USCIS office. That office now has jurisdiction over your case. We sent you a notice that explains why we moved your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your notice by September ** 2015, please go to http://www.uscis.gov/e-request to request a copy of the notice. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

      1. KR

        Mine was transffered on different dats(june 10 and aug 10 2015).I don’t know why they are transffering my case in every 2 months

  15. Hi Raghu,

    I have applied new h1b through a consultancy and it selected in lottery. Recently i have received RFE and my employer said they will taking care of it. Once its approved whether i have to go for visa stamping or i can start working from Oct1 because i m already in USA with H4 visa. My employer filed my job location as florida. If i got job in some other location what should i do? Can you please reply me, So i can prepare my self early.

    Thanks.

  16. Hi, I need help , My name was picked in Lottery . However recently I saw the status on USICS website and it shows they have stopped processing from June 1 . They have mentioned it as “Request For Evidence (RFE)”.It is already 25 July and my employee has not yet responded . Just wanted to know what is the maximum time line within which the reply should reach USICS. else the case is discarded.

    Advanced, Thanks for the response.

      1. Hi ragu,
        Does it mean within 60 days document must reach to USICS office and if so . Is that date going to be 1st August . Please reply asap as I firmly know my employer will not be able to send before 1 August.

        Also let me know if there is any other way by which date can be extended.

  17. Hi Raghu,

    My case has been selected in lottery by May 13 and still in CASE WAS RECEIVED status. NO update after that. 2 months of waiting period is also over.

    Please advise on how to proceed with this.

    Will it take more than 2 months or is there any possibility of rejection at this stage.

    Case Was Received
    On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC15146515**, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

  18. Hi Raghu,

    My application got selected in Lottery and received the Recipt number and copy for the same from my employer.

    However from the time I received there is no change in the status and also it mentions as some error.

    “At this time USCIS cannot provide you with information for your case. Please contact the NCSC 1 (800) 375-5283 for additional information.”

    Please advise……

  19. My wife has done 4 years course of bachelor of engineering in Electronics but does not have any industry experience. She was into teaching at engineering colleges back in India. My question is how can I convert her H4 into H1 even though she does not have any experience? Are there any companies willing to accept fresher for technological/administrative roles? If yes, how can I materialize it? Please advise.

  20. Hi Raghu,

    As you are knowledgable in H1B process, it would have been good if you could clarify a doubt for me. I have not been selected in lottery as my petitioner (consultancy) has not received any information regarding the same from USCIS. I just wanted to know whether they have really filed my case.

    1. They said, USCIS don’t provide any receipt or reference to them for the filed case and only if it is selected they will get a receipt no. Is this true?
    2. How do I verify it was really filed or not.
    3. Do we get any rejection letters from USCIS?
    4. When (approximate) the rejection letters/documents along with the check be returned to the petitioner?

    Thanks,
    Joby

    1. Hi All,

      My consultant says that my cheque is accepted at uscis office but till date i didnot receive any receipt no info from consultant. He says without receipt no also i might get approval. Is that right? What is my next duty?

  21. Hi Raghu,
    My wife’s petition status shows ‘Case is Approved’. Could you let me know as to when can we look to book a PI? This is for a General category.

      1. This Raghu barely knows anything…. He just copies info from USCIS and posts here..

        Dont waste your time here people…

  22. I have filed H1 B Visa application for 2016 .. however till now I have received only these mails from Employer .. 🙁

    second mail…
    We have received few numbers from USCIS after which I have communicated to the employees and their Managers. However, we haven’t received any updates on the pending applications for this CAP yet.
    I hope to get the details for all the applications we filed by mid July. Meanwhile, if I receive the approvals or rejections from USCIS, I would be definitely updating you regarding the same.

    1st mail…
    Your application is sent to USCIS for filing, but the H1B CAP lottery result is still awaited for your application.
    We are in a process of getting the H1B lottery results from USCIS. We are expecting to get the final count by June end.

    Please suggest me if that means not selected in lottery???

    rh

    1. Received my Return file today.
      Notice Date : June 16, 2015.
      All the Best for those who are with a positive hope.

    2. Those not selected in lottery also informed and a number is present on that notice that starts with VRN….

  23. Hi Raghu,
    Could u plz advise on below comments from USCIS on my H1B visa case:

    Request for Additional Evidence Notice Was Mailed

    On June 23, 2015, we suspended processing of your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC15144XXXXX, because we need more information from you. Your notice explains what we need from you to resume working on your case. We will not take action on your case until we receive the evidence or the deadline to submit it expires. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your request for additional evidence notice by July 23, 2015, please go to http://www.uscis.gov/e-request to request a copy of the notice.

  24. Hi Raghu,
    I stil see the same update:
    On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC151xxxxx, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new .

    got receipt number on Apr 29th.

    When can I expect change in status? or whats the next steps

    Thanks
    sree.

    1. Hi sreekanth.,

      My case is also similar to your. Please let me know if you have any udpates..

      Hi Raghu.,

      please provide your inputs..

      Thanks

  25. Hi All those not selected,

    Just received mail from employer that I was not selected in lottery. The USCIS notice also include VRN number. Notice dated 19th June.

    Good luck all who still waiting.

  26. Hi Guys,
    I have not yet received any information on Lottery yet, my Employer says that the package is not yet received back so not sure whether its selected in Lottery or not.

    Any guess what should be my next step, for me is there still any hopes?
    Please advice.

  27. This is the Head lines I am seeing in news websites
    ‘Hardware Snag in Computers Hits US Visa Services Globally’

    This will delay in getting receipt numbers or rejection from USCIS?

  28. Hi Raghu,

    I got the receipt number on May 1st, 2015. When I checked the USCIS website, it said “your case was received”.

    Please tell what are the next steps?

    Thanks,
    Ravi

  29. I have 10 years of IT experience. Applied for H1 and got selected this time on 13th April. On 11th of June, status has been changed to “Notice Explaining USCIS’ Actions Was Mailed”. I am afraid what does it mean. Please anybody can clarify me. What is difference between RFE and this?

      1. Raghu,

        Do you come to know about this status “notice explaining uscis’ actions was mailed”? Please let us know if you found anything..

        1. Several new types of status updates this year. Apparently USCIS have made this change. I will post an update when I learn more.

    1. I also got the same status, worried don’t know what it actually means, is this NOID. Have not got any reply from my employer.

      Plen any updates you want to share?

      1. Arihant,

        This is basically a NOID and USCIS asks to your employer to provide some specific document But my employer did not disclose anything yet. ..

        1. Hi,

          Just wondered if your employer has provided you with further details on the case status. Any further updates on your application?

      2. Any updates on the status
        notice explaining uscis’ actions was mailed

        I also got the same. Is that a NOID or RFE?
        What documents did they ask? How many days did they give to respond?

        1. Have you got any RFE before that status, When I am checking in the blogs i found one answer saying the RFE documents may not reach USCIS. Apart from this if you got any information from your attorney please share.

  30. Hi Raghu,

    My employer asked me to wait till June end for the lottery result. Is there any way through which I can check with USCIS directly, but i don’t have any package no. or other details. Can we track by name only or by any means. I know if that could have been done this portal do not contain such questions. But can you tell way out for knowing status. TIA

  31. Hi Raghu,

    My H1 petition RP was filed at Vermont centre and we have received no update till now. While going through blogs, I found that most of the candidates have not got any update from Vermont centre. Can you please help me on this and let me know if there is any hope for candidates whose application is filed at this centre.

      1. On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC15144*****, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

      1. On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EAC15144*****, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.

  32. My employer did not receive any information about my petition. Filed under student quota general (non premium). If my petition is not picked under student quota then it is surprising that till now nothing is heard about general quota ??????

  33. Hi..

    I have not still heard anything about my H1 petiotion. My SPOC told me that they have not got any update on my case.

    Can anyone please let me know, if there is still any hope for getting selected in Lottery?

    Thanks
    Kamal

  34. Hello Guys

    Does anyone got picked up in H1B lottery processed by Splendtek consultancy, Baltimore?

    Thanks Praveen

  35. Could any one tell what will be the risk with H1B amendment process, atleast the impact on Indian IT Companies??

    1. At present Indian IT companies abusing VISA rules. After amendment quota of 65000 may get triple but getting VISA will be difficult. H1B worker need to be paid higher than the US coworker. In that case recruiting H1B employee would be costlier. But in that case definitely India will protest this in WTO and would pitch for free trade. These are only speculation.

    1. ​I said this back in May.

      “If you don’t receive receipt by second week of May, don’t have any hope.”

      1. Mr. Raghuram Sukumar,
        I don’t believe you statement. My friends are still getting receipt. How you can say there s no hope after 2nd week of may?

        1. Are they getting receipt directly from USCIS or from Employer? Check the date receipt number was generated(April, May or June). If employer is delaying the issue of receipt, there’s nothing we can do about it. I can only speak for what happening with USCIS based on covering USCIS H1B lottery for last 8 years.

          1. Dear Raghu,
            As per USCIS update on 6th May, they suppose to announce once they complete processing return packages. Can you tell till when we can expect the return packages?
            Thanks

      2. This year i don’t have any information of receiving receipt late. But one of my friend has been informed on 2nd June in 2014 lottery. So it is not un-usual to receive lottery result as late as end of June.

  36. Hi Raghu

    Please put some light on the doubts ,I have in mind.

    My consultant is saying that my application got selected in lottery and they were waiting for next process.

    My concerns are?

    1) Whats the mean of “selected in lottery”. ?

    2) What are the next processes after getting selected in lottery?

    3) What is the probability of getting H1 after selection in lottery?

    4) Getting selected in lottery mean surely we’ll get visa or still luck matters?

    Please answer my doubts as it creating lot of confusion in my mind as I am clueless about whole process.

    Thanks in advance for your reply.

  37. My employer told my check cashed on May 8th.. so your case is selected. But still haven’t received the Receipt number yet.Mine is regular processing. Any info by when I can expect the receipt number.

    1. Hey …same here … my cheque got encashed on may 1st , but havent received receipt number yet .
      Mine is regular / Vermont . How about urs ?? Is your’s filled by your company ??

      1. Hi.. Yes.. Mine also same Regular/Vermont.. filed by other US employer means not current employer… great to know at least some relief .. we are in same boat 🙂 . pls update if any further updates from your end .. thx..

        1. Sure .. will keep you posted on the updates .
          Mine was filed by a consultant in u.s . But does it take this long generally ?

          1. Typically, regular processing do not have any mandatory SLA, unlike in premium. They can take their own time based on their work load.Generally.. It shouldn’t take this much of time for to send receipt notices.. This year its delayed as compared to last year processing results.

          2. Thanks for the info .

            I have come across this somewhere … any thoughts on this ??

            Its been told over the USCIS status check portal thaf If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283.But no idea what reference you will quote to them to get any information?.

          1. No updates buddy … nothing .
            From different forums that i checked , looks like , there are few other guys as well who are like us waiting for the receipt number.
            My employer is hopeless , he has nothing to say , except for asking me not to worry and just keep waiting .
            But with each passing day , my hopes are being lost , its july already and not sure if we should still wait for USCIS to release our receipt numbers now .
            Any process changes made by USCIS this year that you are aware of ??

          2. Hi.. Same here buddy.. Don’t think so USCIS has made any process related changes.. In that case USCIS will definitely communicate/publish via its official site. . latest from my employer is we may expect it in next couple of weeks.. means in July month.

          3. Apparently , the receipt number would be available behind the your cheque that got encashed .
            May be u can give it a try with ur employer .
            I tried but my fella didnt even respond to my query on this .

  38. Hi Raghu,

    I have a petition which was approved in 2008, but not stamped. Is there any chance for me to use that petition now.

    Please advise.

    Thanks
    Vinayak

    1. can anyone share there views

      i got an update from USIC that, we updated your name for the form. can someone throw some light, as to exactly what does this mean and what would be the process flow.

      Thanks

  39. Hi Raghu,

    I have not yet received any reply on the exact status of my VISA application. They have replied like :
    “We have not yet received you’re application status, we received only 35% of application status which all selected in lottery and we are expecting remaining application status within end of this month. There is no specified time line but as soon as we received we will update you without any delay. We cannot confirm whether still USCIS will share the accepted cases or not. Kindly wait for the update. Appreciate your patience and support. ”

    I am totally confused why they are extending due date of status update every month. Initilaly they said May Second week, then they said June First week.. now that has also crossed. I am clueless !!

    1. we also heard the same from our consultant. We dont the status yet to date , unless untill receive the packet back we have to wait.

    1. No. For me too no update still. One of attorney told me that packages would be return by 15th Jun 2015. God only knows which is correct news.

  40. Hi Raghu,

    How long will USCIS take to send approved documents. My case is approved on may14.Still my employer didn’t received documents.

  41. Hi, I am currently on H4 and waiting for H1b results. Heard that none of H4s got the updates for their H1b. Is that the case? If so, why?

    1. Hi Priya,

      I am on H4 too and even I have no update on m petition. This is the first time I heard of the situation that you mentioned. Do you have any further updates?

  42. My consultant saying that my application got selected in lottery and they are waiting for next process.

    My concerns are?

    1) What the mean of “selected in lottery”. ?

    2) What are the next process after getting selected in lottery?

    3) What is the probability of getting H1 after selection in lottery?

    4) Getting selected in lottery mean surely we’ll get visa or still luck matters?

    Please answer my doubts as it creating lot of confusion in my mind as I am clueless about whole process.

    Thanks in advance for your reply.

    1. Hi Experts,

      i got an update from USIC that, we updated your name for the form. can someone throw some light, as to exactly what does this mean and what would be the process flow.

      Thanks

    1. Yeah I would like to know if people are still receiving receipt numbers? Can anyone please throw some light on this? Should we still have any hopes to get the visa selected in lottery?

      1. Yes. Till packages not returned with uncashed check all people need to wait but ofcourse chances are minimal.

        1. Thanks for your update. My employer also told me to waiting for the update. Is there any end date for the lottery result. Where can we check whether they announced or not all the selected members ?

          1. No. There is no definite date. But wait can extend into July. Either getting Receipt number or encashing the check for Non AD are only option. No other way to know lottery result. Beneficiary (individual like us) are fully dependent on petitioner (employer\consultant). There is absolutely no way to enquire about lottery result for beneficiary.

  43. Hi Raghu,

    can you please let me know how the approvals process are done I mean is it serial number or randomly selected

    As one of my friend Receipt date 04 23 15
    Category non-AD/RP/EAC
    Receipt no eac151435####

    was approved on 28th while

    My Receipt date 04 22 15
    Category non-AD/RP/EAC
    Receipt no eac151425####

    Status still the same CASE RECIVED

    Can you share some information

    Thanks & Best Wishes

  44. Hi Raghu,

    Thanks man for all the effort, I have few clarifcations….
    Mine is a h1b new from India.

    -When is the h1 amendment filed before the stamping or after the stamping??
    -Will there be rejections again here?? Coz they say its like a brand new petition being filed for u again only thing is ther wont be a lottery.
    -What is approval time for the H1 amended petition?
    -Just wanted to know if the Stamping dates our given by the associate

    Thanks a lot!!

          1. Hi raghu,

            Many of our friends got the confirmation employer that we got the lottery,but haven’t got the receipt number.Along with is there any way that we can check when we would be getting the approval mail.Please let me know if you have any idea on this.

          2. Hi raghu,

            so just wanted to know few points

            When is the h1 amendment filed before the stamping or after the stamping??
            -Will there be rejections again here?? Coz they say its like a brand new petition being filed for u again only thing is ther wont be a lottery.
            -What is approval time for the H1 amended petition?

          3. Whenever application goes to USCIS, there’s possibility of RFE or Rejection and Approval.

  45. Anybody for which package is returned got VRN number? This is a number USCIS provides for return packages which were not selected in lottery.

  46. For those who got it approved,…does the status on the USCIS changed from ‘Case Received’ to ‘Approved’ or there is any other status in between like ‘Review’ or something else ? (Assuming there is no RFE)

  47. Hi Raghu,

    I need clarification on two things. Please clarify.

    1) If person has approved petition and eligible for travel post Oct 1st 2015, but has traveled in the 5th year after petition approval, say on Oct 1st 2020,…will his petition be valid for 6 years from there, meaning till Sep 30th 2026 ?

    2) If a person has H1B filed by X employer and is picked in lottery and is approved….then is the person changes company, will the X employer have right to cancel the H1B petition of the person. If yes, then can the employer do it with out giving any valid justification to employee ?

  48. Hi Raghu,

    My employer has filed my H1B, along with me they filed for 10 of my colleges also. But none of us got any updates till now. Every time my employer is telling, we haven’t received any updates till now. But once of my friend from US told that, this year H1B results are getting delayed due to H4 Visa EAD process. So Please tell us, is this delay really because of H4 Visa EAD or we can consider this as not picked in lottery?

  49. HI Raghu,

    I am Kumar from banglore , working for some service company,
    My employer has filed h1b for me and other 3 colleagues , non of them got selected in the lottery.
    He mailed us the same day that we are not selected in the lottery.
    So is there any way whether the employer really filed the h1b or not.
    for selected applicants there will be a receipt number similarly can we ask employer about any other proofs.
    Please help me , no where I have found the answer for this ,
    please help me

  50. @Raghu,
    My case selected in lottery and waiting for updates from USCIS.
    My passport gets expired in Nov-2016.
    If in case, my case gets approved?
    Whether my passport validity affects VISA?
    I mean, will it be given only till 2016 as passport gets expired or nothing like that..

    Also, Is that recommended to go for renewal of my passport now?

    1. Your passport still have more than 1year validity so u can’t apply for renew on this reason. Get stmped your passport initially it will be for 3 years u can get extension at the max total 6 years. Before 6 months pf expiry of ur passport apply for renew through indian consulate in US thereafter u have to keep ur both passport till ur VISA expired.

    2. ​You can’t apply for visa if passport has less than 6 months of validity.
      So, you should start applying for renewal. ​

  51. Hi Raghu,

    I have applied for my H1B in April 2016 and luckily it got picked in lottery (RP, AD). PP had started from 27th April, 2016, so does that mean that after 11th May, USCIS will work on RP?

    Also USCIS started accepting H4 dependent employment applications from 26th May, so does that mean our RP case approvals might get delayed because of it?

  52. This is the latest update from Immigration Girl ( attorney web site ) , you can check on her web site immigrationgirl , Below is the last comment she updated

    ***UPDATE 5/27/15 – Since so many people are still visiting this post, I thought I’d give a quick update. We have not received any receipt notices for lottery winners since May 12th. I am expecting that next week we may start seeing the returned petitions coming in the mail. ****

  53. Hi Raghu,

    I need clarification on two things. Please clarify.

    1) If person has approved petition and eligible for travel post Oct 1st 2015, but has traveled in the 5th year after petition approval, say on Oct 1st 2020,…will his petition be valid for 6 years from there, meaning till Sep 30th 2026 ?

    2) If a person has H1B filed by X employer and is picked in lottery and is approved….then is the person changes company, will the X employer have right to cancel the H1B petition of the person. If yes, then can the employer do it with out giving any valid justification to employee ?

  54. My H1B result also still pending.

    I have heard some of the people got receipt number today also.

    So What is the last date to release H1B receipt number ?

  55. Hi Raghu,

    This is a great blog for H1B information tracking,
    My employer says only 40% result has been declared till now and 60 % result yet to declare.
    So wait till this month end. Any which ways i will call them on 1st June.

    But how much true it is?

  56. Hi Raghu,

    There was no updates from happyschool blog on H1B status. Is there any delay in USCIS process?

    I have applied for H1B through one of consultancy – healthcare/clinical research, form New Jersy. They are also telling till now no news they got from USCIS. What is the cut off date for Regular quote -general to received picked once?

    Waiting for your answer.

    Thank you,

  57. Hi Raghu, I have recieved recieved reciept, this meaning my petition got seleceted in lottery, Right?

    1. Mallikarjun,I can answer your question, hope you don’t mind.. If you already received your receipt number,that means you are one of the few who were lucky to be picked during the lottery. If you have the number, you can verify your status at the USCIS site. Congratulations =)

    2. Hello Mallikarjun,

      When did you get your Case Receipt and what is the Notice Date given in that.

  58. Hello Raghu, just when I already lost all my hope of being picked in the lottery ,then the good news came over to me. I got picked and have the receipt number. My employer just informed me yesterday. =) I really love this blog . Been a lurker for more than two months in this forum and now is the time to post with a smile in my face =)

  59. Hi Raghu,

    i have apllied for Non-premium/Non AD H1b and i got reply from my employer that it is picked in lottery on May 04,2015, when can i expect my next documents approximately?

  60. Thanks for your reply Raghu, we all got the hint with your answer, its time to start on plan B now : ).
    Your blog has been very helpful , this is the 3rd time ……..bad luck for me but anyways , moving on.

  61. Any body applied H1B 2016 through Splendtek, Baltimore got their petitions approved?
    Please respond

      1. Not yet. I believe they are cheating us. They closed their Baltimore office.
        Guys SPLENDTEK is a FRAUD company..

  62. Hi Raghu,

    Am from TCS, Bangalore.. I did not get any info from my employer. Do you have any rough idea, why they would delay to let out the results??

    Thanks !!!

    1. Employers, like TCS, CTS, etc. do not release the results soon in order to retain emplyees for longer period of time thereby trying to controll the recession. You need to wait until to hear that there are no more lists getting released by the FDFU.

  63. Hey Raghu,

    Today we got email from our HR team stating “H1B CAP lottery result is still awaited for your application”. Just wanted to know if we still have hopes? can i wait for a week or 2?

  64. Hi Raghu,

    As per your suggestion we waited patiently till 3rd week of MAY, but now just guide us if we all (all those who havent received any update for RP/non Premium)should start looking out for Plan B.

    Regards,
    Sandy

    1. Hi Raghu,
      My employer confirmed that my application has been selected in the lottery as the fee amount has been deducted from the check against my H1B RP application on 30th April. Still he is not sharing the receipt number and replying we have to wait for receipt number from USCIS.
      1) Please share the max date upto which USCIS will send receipt number to my employer
      2) My employer is a non-profit organisation, is there any exemption for this category?
      3) Should we wait with scope or not?

      1. There not a lot you can do if employer is not sharing the receipt number.
        For cap exempt why do you worry?

      2. Just wanted to know if people are still receiving the acknowledgements? I have heard that USCIS sends receipts in batches, is it true? Now that its almost May end, do we still have hopes of receiving any positive news?

  65. My employer has provided the confirmation that my application has been selected in the lottery as the fee amount has been deducted from the check/dd attached. They have mentioned that they are yet to receive the receipt number/confirmation from USCIS. Few questions:
    1) Does this mean that my appliaction has been selected ?
    2) When can I expect the receipt number from USCIS? What would the be the max. date by which I can expect the receipt number?
    3) If I did not receive my receipt number in the next few weeks, does this mean that my application has not been selected? Could you let me know if you aea aware of any other process to get the receipt number information from USCIS?

  66. Hey all !!
    My petition got selected in the lucky draw.
    My question:
    – Do I need to apply separately for my dependence /spouse ?
    – Do I get stamping for my spouse at the time of my H1B stamping ?

    Looking forward for a expert comment. Thanks in advance.
    Good luck!

      1. hello raghu….can u plz clarify my doubt….my employer said my cheque isn’t encashed yet and he asked me to wait till he gets rejection notice….are there any chances that my cheque will get cashed or is it game over.any reply much appreciated .

    1. Hi – Congrats! When did USCIS mailed receipt to you or your lawyer/employer? I want to know if USCIS is still mailing selections receipts. I am waiting still waiting on any kind of notice.

  67. Hi Guys,

    Today i have received the WPC receipt number from USCIS and my file got selected in H1B lottery. Some of my team members got may 1st week,few of them got last week tuesday.

    Few companies requested their employees to wait till July 1st week and few companies updates the result till end of june.

    Guys, Don’t lost your hope and wait for some more time. Nothing in our hand.

    Thanks

        1. Hi Vaish,

          Did you receive the receipt in India or in the US? If in India, it would explain the delay in receing the receipt..

    1. Big Congratulations, Vaish!! And, thanks for the info.

      ..gives me some hope that people are still receiving receipts :). One quick question, and would really appreciate the answer. Did your lawyer in US receive the receipt today and notfiied you today, or you received a physical receipt from the lawyer or your employer today and they might have receivd the reciept on an earlier date? I just want to find if USCIS is still continuing to send the receipt or you received it because of some delay at the lawyer/ the employer’s offices.

    2. Hi Vaish,
      Congrats! May I know where is your attorney located? Is it in the U.S. Or India?

      Thanks

  68. Hi Raghuram,

    PLEASE HELP, WOULD HIGHLY APPRECIATE ANY HELP OR INPUTS !!!!!!!!!!!
    I am seeking your or forum members kind help regarding a question I have for GC.

    I have maxed out and completed 6 years of my H1B visa in Oct-2012.
    Due to some personal reasons I stayed back in India and never returned to US post Oct-2012.
    Now my employer is willing to do my GC processing.

    So my question is once PERM is done and I-140 is obtained would I be able to extend my earlier expired H1B Visa directly by 3 years?
    OR

    Is it mandatory to apply for new H1B visa and go thru lottery process all over again irrespective of my PERM and I-140 Status?

    Basically I am looking forward to go back to USA avoiding the H1B lottery scenario.
    Also can you please confirm if EB2 or EB3 would not make much difference in timelines as far as obtaining PERM and I-140 is concerned?

    Thanks a ton for your help.

    Regards,
    Amit

    1. If H1B 6 years ran out, then you would have to come via lottery again. To get H1B extended with I140 you should have filed GC before H1expiry. That’s as far my knowledge goes. If you need more help, you can contact attorney.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        As per your suggestion we waited patiently till 3rd week of MAY, but now just guide us if we all (all those who havent received any update for RP/non Premium)should start looking out for Plan B.

        Regards,
        Sandy

        1. I told you fist week if May that chances are slim even then. There no point in waiting now. Maybe your employer could be delaying the announcement but don’t wait for USCIS.

          1. hello raghu….can u plz clarify my doubt….my employer said my cheque isn’t encashed yet and he asked me to wait till he gets rejection notice….are there any chances that my cheque will get cashed or is it game over.any reply much appreciated .

          2. Thanks for your reply Raghu, we all got the hint with your answer, its time to start on plan B now : ).
            Your blog has been very helpful , this is the 3rd time ……..bad luck for me but anyways , moving on.

    1. Hi Everyone,

      As I still want to keep hope, anyone please let me know if any of you or a friend has received a lottery selection receipt today or a day or two earlier.

      Master selection probability was 62% last year; assuming this year to be 50% (given the higher volume this year), Master applicant this year might have been around 55K (that’s just a rough guess); I am sure someone might have done a more detailed analysis on this. USCIS may post the number this year.

      Good luck to guys and gals who may still be waiting!

      1. Hi anand,

        A friend of mine got the receipt 2 days back. I’m in you boat. Mine was PP…no update with attorney so far…do u think i have hopes?

        1. Hi Bala,

          At this point, there is a very less chance..I think, only due to some special, unusual reasons (such as someone on a vacation, overlooked emails, batch-wise mail dispatch, employers informing candidates only periodically, etc..don’t know just speculating) the receipt/ approval notices would be delayed.
          I work for a large bank and know that some have got receipts/ but none have received any rejection package yet.

          Thanks for letting me know that someone got a receipt two days ago.

          Guys – please post if someone you know got receipt today or recently…

  69. My employer submitted the form in April 1 premium process. I haven got anything since then.I called the offices in the USCIS and they told me that they cannot see anything in the computer about me. What could that means? Game over? or Just keep being patience. Thanks

    1. Carlos,

      Did you have to go through your employer or attorney for doing this?
      my is eaexactly the same as you. I was filed for premium and so far no update nor return package.

      1. Bala,

        I just came back from my attorneys office. She said that she opened a revision case in the mourbning to check what is going on. It may be that the package is sitting in someones desk, or maybe in the waiting list. Either way, I do not know anything yet. I have a question, Shloud we get at least a lottery number? At least to know that we participate in the lottery?

        1. Carlos,

          Did you try getting the lottery number? I am not sure if attorney would disclose that. Reopening the case…hmmm…is that possible?

          Anyway, good luck.

          1. No i havent try that. She told me she did I hope she is not bs me. Right now I don’t have anything more than waiting. Let me know how yours go too. Good luck to you as well

          2. We do not have any choice other that waiting for the return packages.
            PP…no result so far is highly unacceptable!!!

          3. That’s exactly what I think. We pay extra for a reason. I understand the return the money, but we should have at least some kind of priority.

          4. Bala, I am RP, non AD. No, they don’t have the receipt number and when I asked them, they said they haven’t received anything from USCIS yet. In Inszoom, my case is still open but no receipt number.

    2. Carlos,Can we really enquire with USCIS office? Can you please let us know which number to call and what to ask to know h1b application status? I mean whether it is picked or not?

      1. Hi, I tried calling them ydsy snd they said they can provide information only tp the employer or attorney and not the applicant.

  70. Hello Guys

    One of my friend who filed through HexaCorp (Chennai) got a call that his petition is selected. So all the best for the folks who are waiting..

  71. Hi,
    I got a WPC number from our employers, and just one line message saying ” track the case on USCIS website for the latest status update” OR, else, a detailed update will be provided by June 15th, which his confusing ….

    When I checked the USCIS page for the WPC number, it says the following, but not sure what does it mean. My employer said, the application was submitted before 7th April, but looks like received by USCIS only on April 13th only :-(. Can anyone tell, if this means, my application is returned and not selected in random pick? As I understood whatever the applications received by 7th April, those are only considered.

    “On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC15xxxxxxxx, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.”

      1. It means your application picked i[from lottery. You will get your receipt notice soon from your employer. Meanwhile, WPC is your receipt number to track your H1B status.

      2. Same with me….what does it actually mean? what ‘s the next process?
        Do we have to wait for any other confirmation?
        I

    1. Hello Raghu…can u plz tell me mine is non ad/rp my employer said my cheque is not en-cashed yet now is there any chances of getting through into lottery….any reply much appreciated

        1. My employer submitted the form in April 1 premium process. I haven got anything since then.I called the offices in the USCIS and they told me that they cannot see anything in the computer about me. What could that means? Game over? or Just keep being patience. Thanks

        2. Hi Raghu, this time you have not updated any updates from your known attorneys. Can you please take feedback from them regarding receipts receiving pattern , I mean are Rp still coming in , also if they can tell that max receipts are mailed. For RP is it worth waiting till june 1st week or shall we start on plan b.

        3. Hi Raghu, this time you have not updated any updates from your known attorneys. Can you please take feedback from them regarding receipts receiving pattern , I mean are Rp still coming in , also if they can tell that max receipts are mailed. For RP is it worth waiting till june 1st week or shall we start on plan b.

          1. Listen to the Podcast. It was updated last week. All receipts should have been sent out. If employer received and they maybe holding it out.

        4. Hi Raghu,

          Got mail today from my employer that my application has gotten the receipt no. My H1b has been applied for first time and I’m lucky enough to get the petition picked in first try. Out of 30 in our project only 6 got this confirmation. Thanks.

        5. Hi Raghu, in one of your reply you have mentioned that Podcast is updated last week regarding some updates on H1 receipts etc. Please can you let me know the link , path of your podcast you are refering to.

        6. Hi Raghu,

          As per your suggestion we waited patiently till 3rd week of MAY, but now just guide us if we all (all those who havent received any update for RP/non Premium)should start looking out for Plan B.

          Regards,
          Sandy

  72. Hello,
    Is it over for wipro guys? No information is shared from GIMS yet. anybody having information plz share. Thank you.

    1. I am from Wipro.. but GIMS has dropped a mail asking to wait till 1st week of June. they are saying that they haven’t recevd any status update. I don’t understand why ?

      1. I haven’t received any update yet. Did they share receipt number with you?
        Not sure, at all they applied for me or not. No clue.

        1. When I asked them,They said sorry your were not selected.. don’t know whether they have applied or not..

  73. Hi Raghu,

    Eventually I didn’t get any reply from my employer. I have Applied RP/Non-AD H1b visa through well-known genuine company(consultancy). Hope the best.

    Please clarify my questions.

    1. Shall we use the same attorney documents for next year filing?
    2. Instead of applying multiple filing .. Shall I use one for mine another one with my wife’s name?
    3. As per revised process H4 visa holder eligible to work or not?

    1. 1. You should check with your employer/attorney next year when you apply.
      2. Refer to H4 EAD guide to learn more rules.

  74. Hello,

    I am AD/RP/VT and my employer is saying “nothing so far”. We havent received acceptance or rejection.
    Today is May 18, do you think there are any chances left for me?
    Please reply.
    Thanks.

  75. Hi All,
    i received an email from my employer that the lottery results are announced in batches and mine is still not declared and it is expected to be declared by June end. although some employee have started receiving the lottery results,
    does this mean mine is not selected in lottery?

    Thanks,
    Rajan

    1. That’s only employee retention strategy of companies …., June End too far for any hope . This year USCIS is little faster in there process, so hmmmm..I doubt . May end still yes but from 3rd week of May hope will keep on growing slimmer as max. receipts are out.

  76. Hi Infosys Guys,
    I think so , as of now, people from infy of H1B candidates has got the status updates only once, that too around May 6th.. Is there any people who got the receipt number after that.. Waiting Eagerly for it…

    pls correct me if iam wrong..

    1. U r correct.. Noone in infy got an update after may 5. And very few people got an update that day. Think they are are withholding info for now.

      1. You are wrong, there are no plays around informing the picked ones status. People got updates even last week. One thing is GI team had the list who got picked up in the lottery. May be they are updating slow. You can check with your case with GI. If your application is sent to California your chances are almost(99%) over. If it is the other one u can still have 30% chances. All the best.

    2. My consultancy has applied for H1B on regular H1 Cap quota .However when checked for the lottery status ,they informed me that no response was received for my application yet . So can I believe this ?

    3. My consultancy has applied for H1B on regular H1 Cap quota .However when checked for the lottery status ,they informed me that no response was received for my application yet . So can I believe this ?

    4. hi,
      i received an email from my employer that the lottery results are announced in batches and mine is still not declared and it is expected to be declared by June end. although some employee have started receiving the lottery results,
      does this mean mine is not selected in lottery?
      thanks,
      Rajan

  77. Dear Raghu,

    I applied for H1B visa, non-Cap because my employer is an NGO. I have got the labor certification approval on April 9. I have no information when the H1B visa application was sent by the lawyer’s secretary. Probably around that date. Until now, I haven’t receive the tracking rumber or receipt yet.

    Is the receipt/tracking number will be sent by e-mail or mail? If by mail, to which adress? US or Thailand or Indonesia?

    I filled in Thailand on the form, but my nationality is Indonesia, and after 2 months waiting in Thailand I have to go back to Indonesia. But I have to go to Taiwan on July 1, and I will go back to the US on July 30 (if not with H1B, then with B1) .

    When and where do I have to attend interview if I get called?

    Thank you in advance for your information.

    Kind regards,

    daisy

  78. If USCIS is allowing multiple petitions for one person each from different employer, then they should not have considered those against quota. If each one comes with x different petitions then only 1/x of total quota size will actually get visa. Rest opportunities are wasted. Quota size is meaningless. System needs fixture.

  79. Hi Raghu,

    Mine is Non- AD /RP.Today when I checked the status its mentioned as your I-129 approved on May 14 2015 and mail was sent.Can you please help me on this.I am totally confused because its RP.

  80. Hi Raghu,

    My application is Non AD/RP.Generated on Apr 30 and I got receipt from my employer on May 4.Today when I checked the status its mentioned that my I-129 was approved on may 14 2014 and mail was sent.Can you please help me on this.Since mine is RP I am fully confused.

    1. your check was en cashed or
      you got receipt from USCIS today about your H1 conformation or
      your employer said because to know still USCIS is processing ?

      1. He didn’t say it’s received or under review; he said it got approved. You need to read English better.

  81. I want to know is there any risk factor in h1b stamping after you got your I-797 approval. And if there is so, what are the reasons?
    I mean to say that h1b get denied during stamping.

      1. Have you tried to contact them ?… what are they saying.. did they informed all the selected guys ?

    1. I applied through a prospective employer (Regular Processing, Non AD). Haven’t heard anything yet, checked with employer today also, they said haven’t gotten anything on my case.

      I am totally clueless, as I don’t have any proof if my application was even filed.

      Can someone please guide me about what kind of proof can i ask my employer to share with me, so that I can check it online about the status of my application.

      If my H1 gets picked in lottery, then is my employer going to share some details like receipt number, I-94 details with me (mine was CoS case) or can he still not share these details with me.

      Please help.

  82. Applied 4 applications and got selected 3 applications.
    Is there any problem…

    Raghu: How to approach in this case.Do we need to cancel any other 2 petitions .
    Explain how to approach in this case…..

    1. Do u even think u ate up 2 H1s, bcoz of guys like u.. lots of other genuine applicants who are working in very good companies are getting rejected. Please stop this shit. and yes they should discard your all 3 applications.

    2. Do u even think u ate up 2 H1s, bcoz of guys like u.. lots of other genuine applicants who are working in very good companies are getting rejected. Please stop this and yes they should discard your all 3 applications.

    3. Hi Raghu,

      Please correct my understanding if it is wrong and please explain below scenario.

      Suppose a person have more than one applications and all of his/her applications get selected in lottery. But ultimately only one application per person is going to be eligible. This means rest of the selected applications for that person become invalid resulting in empty seats. So how does USCIS proceed to maintain 65000 quota.

        1. Raghu you reply is not clear , you mean to say that both applications if selected will be considered as valid or invalid.

          1. 2 applications picked in lottery means 2 slots from quota is taken, irrespective of whether its approved or denied during processing steps. Once picked in lottery they will be validated as per USCIS guidelines and can both be denied or approved based on merit of the application. Quota eaten is not recoverable for others.

    4. Hi Ramu,

      It is not at all suggested to file multiple applications, means you have void the rules of H1 process.

      Every individual is supposed to file single application. You will face a tough question at the time of interview “Are you so desperate about filing multiple petitions?” This might lead to rejection of Visa.

      Also you have reduced the quota chances for other candidates by 2.

    5. Only one of your application will be selected and counted towards H1B CAP. If the employers are genuine and not like 3 consultancies filed for you with 3 contractors or 1 company filed 3 applications stating 3 contractors then you may receive an RFE .

      If its just flooding of applications i sincerely hope you do not get it and truly become a RAMU wherever you are.
      PS: This is coming from guy directly employed here who got it in H1B in 3rd try and would’ve had to go back. Many of my colleagues didn’t get it and have to go back to school because of guys like you and them (people like my colleagues) being ethical.

  83. Hi Raghu,

    Neither I received the receipt nor the return package. How long to wait. Please reply.

  84. Hi Raghu,

    You are so experience in H1B visa processing mechanism,I would like to ask you few questions regarding H1B visa.

    I had applied 2 H1B visa petitions and both got picked up in lottery.
    Now both applications are in “Case Received status”.

    Can we go ahead for both applications?what is the best way from your experience?
    Please advice me…

    1. Because of guys like you few others did not get chance to get selected. Dont think that you are so great that you have got both of your petition got selected. You have made someone to waste one more year. I wish you fail in interview.

      1. I didn’t pay anything. I have 12 years of experience in IT. Two companies sponsored my H1 after evaluating my profile.

        1. Good for you. Selection is one thing and approval is next. You don’t have to withdraw, but don’t do anything crazy till you get approval notice in hand. Lot more RFE’s are being reported so far this year.

        2. It doesn’t matter how good your profile is. Everybody you see here have 12 years of experience. Company you work for should apply for you, not companies that like your profile. Do you work for both companies? I don’t think so. You’ve broken a law.

          1. I think, you know nothing about the process. Go to USCIS and read about multiple filings. There is a difference between duplicate and multiple filings. Do you mean that the companies take you into the job even if they don’t like your profile.

            Get a life buddy

        3. When you are dead, it doesn’t hurt you because you are dead. It’s the other people who suffers. The same is true when you are stupid.

    2. don’t you feel bad that you have taken away someone else s opportunity by doing such things. I’m surprised why uscis doesn’t put a check on such applicants and fine them heavily so that no one else attempts such things. I wish they start doing this soon. Very sorry to have such ppl in the US. Bunch of cheats.

  85. Got the receipt on May 11th…So releived..:):)
    AD/RP/CAL – 2nd attempt (both times only one genuine petition)
    Best of Luck to all still waiting…

  86. Mine is for RP Non AD. Receipt number not received yet. Should I understand that my chapter is closed?

    1. HI Raghu,

      I have one question regarding H1B, could you let me know till when we can expect the name will be disclose to us. Bcz I saw that my company is sending names in phases or slots. they have sent it two slots. Should I expect that there would be more number in line to be announced.

      May be this question will be repeated but I would looking for answer on the same.

      Thanks
      shekhar

  87. Hi Raghu,

    First of all thanks for your wonderful jobs in explaining the trickiest of the questions related to H1B.
    Hereby I would like to have a favor from your side as I got a question for you which is very common.
    I got reciept number from my employer yesterday and when i checked the status, it is showing as below :
    “We recieved your I-129 petition and sent you the reciept number that describes how we will process your case. please follow the instructions in the notice ”
    What does it all actually mean? what steps next after this?
    I think this question is very common and for a freshers like us, please do help us in this regard.

    Thanks very much in advance.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        In one of your replies you have mentioned that 95% of receipts have been mailed. So wanted to ask were you refering to PP or for all type ?

        Regards,
        Sandy

          1. I did not receive my receipt number.. so which means i’m not selected in lottery?? my employer asked me to wait till may end… so are they gonna send my return package ?

  88. Hi,

    I am waiting for my H1B lottery status. When i asked about the same to my employer, they said that, they didnt received any communication from USCIS and they are expecting the same at May end. For everyone of us they said the same. My seeing the comments posted here, it should come to us by man 13th May. Now we are worrying how and when we will come to know our H1B status. Now big worry in our mind now is that whether our employer really filled our petetion or not. Please let us know till what time we can wait to come to conclusion. Please let us know. Thanks in advance.

  89. Mine is RP/Non AD .. I got my reciept on 24th Apr and got the message on 10th May that “we approved your Form I-129”. Feeling super lucky and blessed. Thank you god.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        In one of your replies you have mentioned that 95% of receipts have been mailed. So wanted to ask were you refering to PP or for all type ?

        Regards,
        Sandy

      2. HI Raghu,

        I have one question regarding H1B, could you let me know till when we can expect the name will be disclose to us. Bcz I saw that my company is sending names in phases or slots. they have sent it two slots. Should I expect that there would be more number in line to be announced.

        May be this question will be repeated but I would looking for answer on the same.

        Thanks
        shekhar

  90. Hi Raghuram,

    Till what time we can have hope regarding the lottery results?

    I enquired with my employer and they said like they neither received any approval or denial status for my petition.

    Mine is Non-AD/Regular processing.

    1. I believe:
      You can expect the Acceptance message (with the case number) maximum till this Wednesday (13th May). The Denial messages (H1B packages) can be expected till this month end.

  91. Raghu,
    Any idea till when the companies would be notified or the cheque would be encashed. With my employer only 4 have been notified about selection out of 50
    Is it confirmed negative for the rem

    1. Our case was picked and when check status with the case number given, i see this message:
      “On April 13, 2015, we received your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number EACXXXXXXXXXX, and sent you the receipt notice that describes how we will process your case. Please follow the instructions in the notice. If you do not receive your receipt notice by May 13, 2015, please call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. If you move, go to http://www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.”
      So i think by this Wednesday, 13th May, all the case numbers should be sent out.

  92. Non AD RP Guys, Dont loose hope,
    Though all receipts sent by USCIS, and they are sending petitions back, but number of employers not shared the news whether petition selected or rejected with their employees, possibly your petition may be selected in lottery but employer have not communicated you because they are waiting for the results for all petition filed by them(selection/rejection)..and they will declear at a time, once they receive all receipts, generally employers wait till june first week… I heard experiences of my friends, many of them said the received confirmation from employer in mid of june for selection in lottery.

    1. Raghu,
      Any idea till when the companies would be notified or the cheque would be encashed. With my employer only 4 have been notified about selection out of 50
      Is it confirmed negative for the remaining ones.

    2. That’s correct. Looks some employer’s want to declare the results collectively at the end.

      But, this is more horrible & painful to wait till end without any clue 🙂 …

      I think many folks are facing this situation..

      However, wish them good luck.

  93. USICS has started returning applications back.so by may 15 if you get your application back then you are not selected. If you don’t get app by 15 and no update means you still have chance. Receipt no keep coming in batch mails till month end

  94. Hey All,

    DONT LOOSE HOPE!!!!

    I got my Receipt number today Morning! Thanks a ton to GOD!

    one quick question, Is there any possibility to check our name and other details with receipt number?

  95. Is there still any hope left for the RP to receive the receipt?

    My attorney says that they have just started to receive the results.

    1. Hi Raghu,

      I filed in PP, still no news, is there any think line of hope ? i heard that few of my friends received it after 15th May 2014. Is there any chance ?

  96. Hi,
    I received a notification from USCIS last May 5.
    USCIS announced May 4, 2015, that it has completed data entry of all fiscal year 2016 H-1B cap-subject petitions selected in our computer-generated random process. USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected. Due to the high volume of filings, the time frame for returning these petitions is uncertain. USCIS asks petitioners to not inquire about the status of submitted cap-subject petitions until they receive a receipt notice or an unselected petition is returned. USCIS will issue an announcement once all the petitions have been returned.

    My other friends who were petitioned by our employer for an H1B visa didn’t receive this kind of notification. What does this mean? Is this an alert that my H1B case was not being picked up in the lottery.? Since my employer said that they will let us know if we were picked in the lottery or not.

  97. First H1B Package returned was reported on May 6, 2015. This post is updated with comment from the reader.

    1. May 5th , Data entry was completed so is it possible that package gets returned on May 6th. ?
      If it is not one day delivery, then it can be assumed that they returned the package even before completing data entry.

      But this contradicts to the news release done by USCIS on 5th May. One extract from the release “USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap subject petition that were not selected in lottery”

    2. If we get to know that our check is getting cleared. Does it mean that our application has been picked. Bcoz I didn’t get my receipt and any info from my employer. And can we expect the mail saturday too for RP.

  98. Day before yesterday, my employer sent me an email stating receipt noitice received with receipt number. This is my second time. Long live CTS

  99. Hi Raghu,

    My Employer sponsored for my Visa (Non AD, Regular). Till now I did not receive communication from them.
    Is there any hope for Non-AD && Regular candidates to receive receipts? On a wild guess out of the selected candidates did 80% received their receipts?

    Regards
    Manoj

    1. I think we can still keep the hope as My friend received his receipt today early morning! Waiting for my turn too:(

  100. Hi Raghu,

    Should the regular processing Non AD candidates have anymore hope?

    My employer has not received any update on my petition from USCIS yet.

    1. Exact update from my Employer ” We have started getting receipt and there is hope till may end”.

      My opinion and my opinion only…… if not May end…till next week all regular guys have full hope. Just keep your fingers crossed.

  101. Can any one please help me..
    Just now I got a call from consultancy and said your file has picked up in lottery. How we could confirm whether my file has selected or they are cheating us..

    Is there anyway to find out?
    Help me Plz Plz…….:)

    1. Be happy that you got selected and if you don’t trust your employer you shops have applied via someone you trust. Is this a consulting company and do you have to pay for H1?

        1. The employer is required by law to pay the application fees!! Anybody who pays his own H1b fees is guilty of abetting the violation of federal law ,doesn’t deserve to be in the US and should be deported!

      1. Hi Rahu – Still i have not got any confirmation from my consultancy.So is my application has not picked.

        can you please confirm.or should i still hope for lucky draw.

        Thanks
        Suresh.

    2. WHAT a QUESTION man ???? Cheating is if someone has taken money and not submitted application , I dont think even that happens . Your consultancy is telling that your application got picked up , I hope its not H1 Prank Incorporation you applied thru…, go out and relax.

  102. Can you please tell me if you whether there is no chance for VISA pick now in lottery because there is no news from my employer till now. They said they did the regular process and applied it on April 1st 2015.

    Please advice Raghu sir.

  103. Got phone from my employer couple of mins ago that my check has been en-cashed. He said he will get the receipt no. in couple of days.

    I am RP/Non-Ad.

    Any RP/Non-Ad can still keep their hopes alive till coming Friday. Good luck to everyone !

  104. Hi Raghu,
    Do you think that all SEVIS record should get updated by now? If my SEVIS record is still showing that i am on OPT extension , do i still have chances to receive receipt number? (Just curious because you mentioned that data entry is complete) hoping to hear from you.
    Thanks for giving all information. I appreciate.

    1. I think I replied to you before for the same comment. Don’t depend on SEVIs record updates. If receipt, then selected in lottery. Simple.

      1. Hi Raghu,
        Yes i re posted my question. I posted the same question on another topic discussion page. I am really sorry for duplicate questions.
        I appreciate your response. Thank you very much. So even after my SEVIS record is not showing update after 4 May. i still have hope.

    2. Hi Raghu – I came to know that regular receipts has been sent and there will be no more receipts to be send to candidates.
      Can i still hope for my lucky drop.

      Note:mine is regular.

      thanks
      suresh.

  105. I am not sure whether my petition was filed for PP or RP . If it is Premium
    Process can I still have hopes . If it is Regular process how long can we wait.

    Waiting for lottery receipts each and every min is like an hour for me .

    I am applying for 3rd time every year I refer my friends they are getting selected I fail in lottery.

  106. USCIS Completes Data Entry of Fiscal Year 2016 H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions:

    USCIS announced May 4, 2015, that it has completed data entry of all fiscal year 2016 H-1B cap-subject petitions selected in our computer-generated random process. USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected. Due to the high volume of filings, the time frame for returning these petitions is uncertain. USCIS asks petitioners to not inquire about the status of submitted cap-subject petitions until they receive a receipt notice or an unselected petition is returned. USCIS will issue an announcement once all the petitions have been returned.

    1. Couple of my colleagues got their receipt numbers today….Still hoping for the Best!!!!!!!!

  107. I got news from my Employer that my check is been cleared today at 2:00PM. I was holding onto the last shared of luck after the USCIS notification that they have finished processing all the Applications for 2016 cap. Thank you, God Bless!

    1. If we get to know that our check is getting cleared. Does it mean that our application has been picked. Bcoz I didn’t get my receipt and any info from my employer. And can we expect the mail saturday too for RP.

  108. i have applied for h1b reglular processing,still now i am not getting any information from the consultancy.what is it means?

  109. PLease let me know if we dont receive anything as of today, we are out of luck…Please advise..

  110. This Means game over for me, because today i asked my employer he said he haven’t got any updates from Usics

  111. UPDATE on USCIS “USCIS Completes Data Entry of Fiscal Year 2016 H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions”

    — can someone please post that does this mean its all done and all those who are selected should have received the receipt and rest are 🙁 rejected ? 🙁

    please reply.

    1. I assume you filled ur application under regular process. Just wait one or two days more. If u were lucky and ur receipt got issued today then ur attorney should receive it in mail next few days. Otherwise start preparing for an alternative option. Sorry brother, I know this waiting drives everyone crazy but there isnt much that u can do now.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        Should I still hope to receive receipt number? Mine is Non-AD/RP. Please let me know plz plz plz..Should I still wait……I haven’t heard any thing till now from my consultancy/employer.

    2. I am trying this for third time, waiting for the receipt. Will there be an issue if we apply multiple applications with different employers.

  112. “USCIS announced on May 4, 2015, that it has completed data entry of all fiscal year 2016 H-1B cap-subject petitions selected in our computer-generated random process. USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected. Due to the high volume of filings, the time frame for returning these petitions is uncertain. USCIS asks petitioners to not inquire about the status of submitted cap-subject petitions until they receive a receipt notice or an unselected petition is returned. USCIS will issue an announcement once all the petitions have been returned.”

    Does this mean that all the receipts have been already sent by USCIS and they are now going to return the petitions that were not selected in the lottery?

    Mine is under the Non-AD, General category. Do I still have hope to hear that my petition has been picked up in the lottery?

    Please advice. Thanks in advance.

      1. I am trying this for third time, waiting for the receipt. Will there be an issue if we apply multiple applications with different employers.

  113. My colleague got receipt number on friday… Mine also processed with him only but i did not receive yet.. Shall I still hope that I will get after sometime?

    1. One of my colleague also got his receipt on last Wednesday….he was in the RP/ Non AD category….Mails are coming slowly in batches….keep your fingers crossed….

    2. USCIS Completes Data Entry of Fiscal Year 2016 H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions

      USCIS announced May 4, 2015, that it has completed data entry of all fiscal year 2016 H-1B cap-subject petitions selected in our computer-generated random process. USCIS will now begin returning all H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected. Due to the high volume of filings, the time frame for returning these petitions is uncertain. USCIS asks petitioners to not inquire about the status of submitted cap-subject petitions until they receive a receipt notice or an unselected petition is returned. USCIS will issue an announcement once all the petitions have been returned.

  114. Folks, after last year where I was not selected in the lottery and was very frustrated, I applied again this year, with the same company, and yesterday, finally, I got a contact from them and I was selected in the lottery this year.

    I am so happy guys.

    I also would like to leave some words for those are still waiting for news….keep praying and keeping your fingers crossed, do not lose your hope.

    Thanks for all info that you gave me, we are at the same boat, and I wish all the best for everyone. That your dreams to move to US became true.

    For information mine was RP/NAD/NSC

  115. Hi guys,

    Any one still waiting for Non-advanced/regular/ vermont.i haven’t received reply yet.very tensed.can we still hope?

    1. Yes, we all have hope till end of May and may be first week of June. They just completed PP.
      Just keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best.

      I am also in same boat..Regular / Non AD, Vermont.

  116. Hi last year employer given me petition no but not selected,
    this year also I applied, how can we know whether the employer submitted our application or not.
    Please let me know I am really confused on this. It’s regular process, and also tell me upto what date I can keep hope.

    1. Hi guys,

      Any one still waiting for ad/RP vermont.i haven’t received reply yet.very tensed.can we still hope?

    2. Hi Abid, congrats!!! Was your application processed at the VT or CA center? Tomorrow is the 15th day since the received date showed on my receipt and my app status hasn’t turned to Approved/Denied yet. I’m a bit nervous…

      Thanks,

      1. Hi Hannah, Don’t worry. You have time till 12th May as the premium processing officially starts from 27th April for all cap-subject petitions. You receipt date doesn’t matter in this case.

        1. Hi SK,

          Thank you for your response. I thought 4/27 was the date when USCIS had to start reviewing all PP cases. That means they may process some earlier than 4/27 and since I received the receipt notice quite early, I was hoping they would review my application early too. Maybe I’m wrong but anyway all I can do now is wait, right? 🙂 keeping my fingers crossed, and best of luck to all who are on the waiting mode like myself!

  117. i got receipt notice and receipt number and it also says amount received. by this i understand that i am selected in the lottery .mine is regular non adv, non pp. i think they have started sending receipts of regular one;s Guys so happy all the best to all others. I couldn’t get through lottery last year. This year it happened. Happy. Thanks a lot Raghu garu.. ur blog is helpful thank you once again . I aso did follow immigirl blog . I still cant believe i got.

  118. Hi Raghu,

    My application is premium in AD. I did not get any receipt so far. Should I assume that it is not picked? Because, they have started processing already on 27th of this month for premium.

    1. Have you got any mail?? If so can you let us know what the mail States?? Have you got applied in pp??

    2. Can you please tell what the mail states ? I am in RP/Non AD…and still have not got any update so far. Also, I would like to know, if it is informed by your employer even if your petition is not selected.

  119. I received my receipt number. Does that mean i got selected in lottery or receipt number are getting assigned to all applicant.

    1. Yes everyone who has applied are getting the receipt numbers. The one who haven’t got it are selected , WHAT A QUESTION MAN ????? >:

      1. Sandy , I think you misunderstood my question or might be the arrangement of my word has confused the audience. Let me rephrase
        1) Total No of applicant for Non AD H1B 2015 = Close to 200000
        2) Total No of selection in Lottery for Non AD = Close to 80000

        Who all are receiving the receipt. Only 2 or entire 1

    1. Lan, you got your receipt yesterday. Does it mean your application is picked in lottery or its just you have applied for H1B.

          1. Hello Guyz,

            Even I am in NAD/PP awaiting the lottery results. Whats d last date we can expect the results for PP?

            Pls help!

          2. @Sam

            Last year I have applied for H1B. On second week of June, I got notification from my employer saying that my petition wasn’t selected in lottery. I think you can wait till May.

  120. I am a regular applicant. Today I got call from my employer & saying that, my application was picked lottery and they got notification from USCIS. But, recipient number will be recieved after a week. Can we get notification from USCIS without reciept number?

    1. Hi Sailaxmi,

      Have you applied for regular processing.Which company do you work for.

      Anyone from accenture started getting the info

      1. My employer also told the same. they just told it was selected in lottery, but they didnt give the receipt no yet.
        Raghu,
        Can you advise on this ? Can we get notification from USCIS without reciept number?

        1. Hey Accenture_Guy,

          Which location you belong to.did you get any updates from People mobility when can we expect the results.

      1. Hi Raghu,

        Touchwood..If a person is rejected in the lottery he also would be getting the notification by mid of may.

        Another concern is if a person is not getting selection/rejection mail would he be having any chances of moving to second/third slots in the upcoming months of June & July.

        Please let me know how many slots would be there for this selection process as i have heard people used to get selection mail in the month of June.

        1. There’s no second or third slot. We don’t the mechanics of this lottery. People did receive receipts in June but very few.

          1. Hi raghu,

            So the selection/rejection mail would come in the month of may.Only LITTLE fall under June category if am right.

  121. I was filed under AD/RP quota. I have not got the recipt no yet. However I asked my school today if they see any change in SEVIS. They said they did see a Notification of Cap-gap extension in my SEVIS but I think did not see the recipt no yet. Does this change of status imply a H1B loterry selection

  122. My H1B cap was filed in California under regular processing and non-AD. I received my receipt number yesterday. Just be patient and keep praying.

    Good Luck 🙂 Thanks!

      1. Same here AD/PP/CSC. No updates. I am feeling extremely disappointed and anxious. But I will still keep hoping for one more day.

  123. I am under Premium Non-AD, still waiting for the Receipt.
    As they started processing Non-Premium I can stop waiting and do my business.
    Good Luck.

    1. Hi All,

      Anyone got receipt under premium but not Advance degree from vermont center . Please let me know.

      THANKS

  124. Hi,

    My employer has filed H1B petition for me under the Non-AD, General and Non-PP category. They say that they did not receive any communication from USCIS yet.

    Does that mean my petition has been rejected in the lottery?

    Please advice. Thanks in advance.

    1. Non-AD, General and Non-PP category, takes more time. It might take more than a month,

      All we need at this time is patience.

      Good luck.

    2. Neha,
      Please have patience, stay positive.

      Respected all members,
      there is no difference between AD and non-AD petition, only PP and regular is differentiating factory, once petition has picked, they are treated as same, non_PP petitioners hang on, wait till 31st may as limit, for good news to come.

      I wish a good luck to every one

    3. Hi Neha,

      Mine was filed under Non-Advanced, Non-premium H1B cap with California. I got my receipt number. Stay tuned as the numbers are pouring in slowly. Thanks!

  125. Once the AD quota is over , remaining application comes under general category.

    Does USCIS process AD application first in regular processing or it is does not matter whether it is AD or NAD ?

  126. Long shot here but wanted to know what others are experiencing. Has anybody with AD/nonPP heard back anything.

  127. Hello,

    To everyone who is waiting to hear from CA service center under AD/PP. Trust me dont lose hope – I received my confirmation today and my friend received yesterday so dont lose hope. We are still receiving confirmations. All the best !

  128. Hi,

    Has anyone got receipt number for non-AD non-Premium from vermont center? please please reply me.

    Thanks.

    1. Hi Abid, Congrats ! . Please confirm that your case was under premium not under master. I also applied from vermont under premium. That’s why asking. Please reply as eagerly waiting for my results still no confirmatiomy regarding results

  129. In wikipedia site H1B visa initial employement approved count will be around 124000 for last year 2015 . Is this count 124000 is for both premium processing and normal processing count?.

    H1B Cap Limit 85000 is only for noraml petition or both normal and premium

    For this year 233000 will this count include both premium processing and normal processing pettions ?

      1. Thanks for an update . kindly provide info if u know

        In wikipedia site H1B visa initial employement approved count will be around 124000 for last year 2015 . Is this count 124000 is for both premium processing and normal processing count?.

        In general we have cap limit 85000 only ,How they able to issue 124000 visa?

        1. (124000 – 85000) applications where filed by CAP EXEMPT employers.
          These are usually universities and non-profit organizations.

      2. Dear Raghu,

        Good morning.

        Any update on receiving the mail/emails of receipt numbers for Non-AD, General and Non-PP from Vermont center. Please confirm if anybody received/receiving the same. I did not receive yet.

        Thanks.

  130. Hello,

    I’ve applied for H1B premium processing and I would like to know whether all the receipts for H1B premium processing has been shared by USCIS in California or people are still receiving receipts for premium processing in California?

    Some of my colleagues got receipt number on April 15th and 16th.

    Thank you so much.

    Regards,
    Kunal

  131. Is there any way to know when the regular cap processing (not masters or premium) finished? what will be the feasible time span? can’t sleep at all……

  132. I am working with a Big 4 firm and my case is filed under PP(non AD) by my employer. I haven’t received any communication yet. Does that mean my case couldn’t make it in lottery? Please reply. I am having sleepless nights like many of you.

    1. Just wait….nothing can be done apart from that…keep your hopes on…there are few advanced/non -advanced receipts trickling in from california service center.But cant tell anything till end of next week

    2. Anyone got results under premium processing not in advance degree ?? Special from vermont filing petition center or any other center. Please let me know

    1. I am also waiting for nonad/pp/california…No news yet…Hopefully we should hear by wednessday next week.

      1. I got my h1b picked under nonad/pp/california.Finally feeling accomplished.

        Please dont loose hopes.All hard work will be rewarded .

  133. Anyone in Regular Quota/Regular Processing Got update? I’m applying for the third consecutive year. First two years I didn’t get through lottery. Hopefully waiting this year…

    1. Not yet, the law firms say they haven’t received anything from Vermont. People who say they got it from Vermont have seen their checks en-cashed. Hopefully on Monday/Tuesday the receipts should trickle in. Good Luck ! I’m waiting too

  134. Anyone with Masters/Premium waiting for the results ? Are the chances bleak if we havent received any confirmation yet ?

    1. Hi Friends,

      I received the receipt number just now under non-masters premium.. All the best to all of you.. I will pray for you all.

      Thanks Thanks 🙂

      1. Hi lakshmi,

        Did you get your approval? I am waiting for my approval from april 20.No status change?

    2. I got my H1B picked and processed in CA center. Got my notification on 14th April. Hope all master students should get it. This is my second time applying for H1B. Relieved from all tensions. AD/PP

  135. My employer updated me that the check got enchashed on April 14th. But I haven’t recieved any updated about the notification.
    When can I expect to get the notification?

  136. Hi all,

    My lawyer has sent my petition under “Premium Processing Service” but so far we haven’t received any update saying that my petition was selected by the lottery.

    Do you think that I still have chance to be selected or I should start looking for another visa (i.e: O-1)?

    thank you a lot,
    Karen

  137. Hi Raghu,

    My lawyer emailed me saying my application got selected in the lottery. When I look at the lawyers portal, they’ve updated my case with the receipt number. When I check the case status in the USCIS website, it says “On April 15, 2015, we updated your name for your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Receipt Number WAC15XXXXXXXX”

    Can you tell me what this means ?

    1. Hey Harini,

      It means your petition is picked in the lottery and the receipt number is an acknowledgement. Congratulations!!

      1. Greetings Raghu!!! I am reaching you to get some information if you have for H1B status.
        My H1B is applied this year under Bachelor’s degree + premium category.
        Have receipts started coming, and also how do I know in which center my application will do. My offer letter is to Join San Jose for a big reputed firm..
        Thanks for answer ,. Until when I can hope, 27th or even more days..

  138. Hello Raghuram Sukumar, please let me know when Regular processing approval receipts will be sent out, is there any deadline???

    1. Congrats, I am AD/PP too.

      this my second time. My opt Extension expired last year Nov.

      Hopefully I will get it this time too.

      1. I hope you get it man! Its not fair that consultancies out there flood the visa with multiple applications for single person while we directly employed here can’t get it.

  139. My H1B petition got picked in the lottery. My lawyer forwarded the email he received from USCIS California service center.

    Good Luck to all my fellow applicants.

    1. Other Details: My H1B petition requested for a premium processing and received the email from USCIS this morning.

    2. What was the time gap between intimation date of lottery selection and the date of receipt notice. i got intimation from my employer on 29th April that i made the lottery. still today i am waiting for receipt notice. as i am in regular process what would be the final date for closing receipt notice

    1. Has anyone received lottery results or receipt number under premium category..

      Totally sleepless nights 🙁 Please update if someone gets.

          1. Even our employer got 1. but not for my wife’s application……… Still crossing fingers 🙁

  140. Hey Raghu,

    Is there any way of getting information for our selection? Who will receive this information lawyer or employer? Can we track this information from d tracking no.?

  141. Does anyone know how much of the 233,000 application submitted was for the post grad application ?

    1. It does not matter what’s d no. Because after selection 20000, rest will be added to general cap quota. You should consider 213000 applications…. In a way….

      Rather think for chili an or Singapore citizen category, as 5160 special quota for them is kept aside from available 65000……

      Minimum application from that category means more availability in general cap.

      1. Just wanted to calculate the probability of a selection by lottery in the advance degree category

    1. For students on OPT can check whether their immigration status change through international office. Just request check the service number on their I-20.

    1. Hi…..Usually, will be know anytime upto May end..sometime even later based on how fast the acceptance or rejection reaches your employer or employer’s attorney….

    1. The accepted ones will receive the notifications first. The rejected ones will get to know only late in May.

  142. Ugh – I don’t think it’s 2.3MM applicants as describe in the body of your post… Looks a little scary. Please revise…

  143. Hi Ragu,

    I have applied for h4 to h1 conversion.What will happen if I travel outside Us after my application got selected in lottery?

    1. Your COS (Change of Status) will be abandoned and you will remain on H4 unless you apply for COS again OR go outside US and stamped the H1b.

      1. Thanks for your reply..so can I apply for cos through the same employer? What about the fee for the same?

  144. Lottery process completed today.. Nearly 233000 applications including general and AD.. Let the odds win.. All the best to all of us..

    1. Hi,
      We have applied H1b for my wife( from H4 to H1b conversion) with premium. Any idea when and how will get the results for premium processing applicants.

        1. Hi Vidit

          15 days time frame for processing premium applications or releasing the receipt number/lottery results???.

          Today USCIS announced ,
          On April 27, 2015, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin premium processing for cap-subject H-1B petitions requesting premium processing, including petitions seeking an exemption for individuals with a U.S. master’s degree or higher.

          So shall we receive the receipt number before April 27th for selected ones.

    1. Is there any way of getting information for our selection? Who will receive this information lawyer or employer? Can we track this information from d tracking no.?

    1. Hi Raghu, when we come to know the applications filed number this year and lottery date..
      One more thing how long it takes whole process..
      Thank you,
      BR

      1. Lottery results are out. Ouota limit has been increased. All have fair chances of getting selected.
        Good Luck

        1. Are you sure. I don’t see any information on number of applications and lottery in official sites.

          Will they post lottery process/status in USCIS site.

          1. USCIS has already declared that lottery is over, USCIS had sent out a mail to their news feed subscription. And its also quoted in the blog. Just have to read in between lines.

  145. Raghu,

    I’m on H4, my wife asked me for divorce past winter. An employer applied for my H1B this time, but I found out there is a lottery. What will happen with me if I not get H1B before divorce?

    Thanks

    1. if you didn’t get h1b after divorce his H4 status will get waived off…..so you have to come back to india

  146. Admin,Can you please remove “KARMA GOOD” . Hes giving all kind of wrong information!!

    Thanks!

  147. Reverting back to old comments. It’s going to be difficult to fix the parsing issues with the comments import.

    1. Raghu any hint by now on the number of applications received . I know no one knows exact number but still some information should be out by now like approximate if not accurate.

    2. Hi Raghu , I just posted a comment and query under your comment and its removed.
      If you didn’t wanted to answer , it’s ok at least leave the comment online.

      1. something wrong happening today in comment section. sometime I see my comment back online and sometime its gone , is your update synced by now Raghu ??

  148. Hi Raghuram,

    I have i-797C Notice of Action document, From using this document i can go for H1-B Transfer?

    Thanks
    Kate

  149. Hi Raghu,

    Thanks so much for all the information!

    I have a confusion maybe you can help to solve:

    Say one is selected from lottery and into the process stage, but is denied or duplicated after. Is the selected slot going to be wasted or back to the lottery pool and select another one?
    Thanks!

    1. USCIS selects slightly more in the lottery expecting to reject n bad cases so total eventually reaches 65,000 after rejections

    2. Official news from USCIS that they received 2.12 lacs applications. Today they gonna finish the lottery process and petitioners gets the response by tomorrow on wards…
      Guys please be patient and pray to GOD!

  150. How many characters do we have in the Tracking number of your H1B application ???
    is it 13 or 12.??
    tracking number and receipt number are same, right???

    1. Hi Karma GOOD,

      Thanks for the update. But can you please site the source for this news, if it infact is real ?

      Regards

        1. Thank you for the quick update. But nowhere in the website nor any news alert gives any information about the actual number of applications.

          All the official website of USCIS says is that “USCIS Reaches FY 2016 H-1B Cap”. I am not sure where you got the number 3lac+ applications.

  151. Raghu, if the update came today (7th), does this mean that the cap was actually reached just today?

    If so, it is pretty slow meaning your prediction of a less number of applications this year (as against the last) due to the H4 EAD rule might very well be for real! 🙂

    1. The impact of the H-4 visas will not have a very significant influence in the number of petitions. This is because it only affects a subset of H-4 visa holders (those with approved i-140 and have been approved to stay in the country for more than 6 years). A majority of those petitioning from h-1b are usually recent college grads in the US, or skilled workers from outside. Hence, the impact of the H-4 work-authorization rule will have little effect.

    2. They always inform the news on the last day they will receive, even if the cap hit much earlier.

      1. Hehe…good one…

        Would be nice if the count of applications received came out today – helps ease some anxiety for all those waiting!
        Good luck to all, let the games begin!

  152. This was expected. Im actually surprised it took 5 days to reach the cap. I was expecting it to be filled by Friday of last week. All the best to everyone that filed a petition. May the odds be in your favor…

    1. It always takes 5 days coz if I know correctly, USCIS enters all the applications that are received in first 5 business days into lottery.

      This is required because say they receive 400k applications on day 1, how do you determine which are the first ones.

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