How long does it take to obtain an H-1 visa?
The H-1B petition process requires filing applications with two government agencies, the Department of Labor and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service (USCIS). Normal processing time varies from three to six months, but during peak season the processing time is approximately six months. For an additional fee of $1000, premium processing may be available, which guarantees USCIS adjudication within fifteen calendar days. NOTE: New regulations effective April 8, 2008 will permit a student who is currently in status on OPT, and who is the beneficiary of a timely-filed H-1b petition, but whose OPT would expire before the H-1b becomes available, will be able to remain in status AND employed during the cap-gap period between the end of OPT and the beginning of the H-1b.
