H1b consular processing interview. The H-1B visa stamping process involves several steps: .
H1b consular processing interview , your Process at the US Consulate for Visa Interview with 221g letter : It was fairly easy process at the consulate. Processing times also vary, with consular processing potentially taking longer due to visa interview scheduling and possible consular delays. EB2 and EB3 Priority Dates Documents and Process. However, the experience may differ between consulates and embassies in different countries. Making sure you have the correct documents and are ready to answer the toughest questions the Consular Officer can Arrive at the US embassy or consulate where your appointment for a H1 visa interview is scheduled. Once the H1B petition is approved, you will have to obtain an H1B stamp on your passport following an interview with a consulate officer. Experience 18: H1B with Dropbox at Hyderabad. Sometimes, you may also be told that your visa is under "Administrative Processing. I got visitor visa for CANADA and i am planning to attend the interview. 2: The USCIS approves Form I-140 and sends the approval notice to State Department's National Visa Centre (NVC). Only time spent in the United Consular Interview experience: They were trying to transfer my case as my default consulate was Delhi and I had booked appointments at Hyderabad. on a valid status, it may be advisable to file the case as a Change of Status rather than Consular Processing. Visa Interview: An in-person interview conducted at a U. Kindly note that the specific appointment scheduling process differs from one country to another along with the type of visa you are applying for. The U. What Does the H-1B Visa Process Entail and Do You Have to Pay Taxes? The process is initiated by the applicant’s potential employer, who files for an LCA with the Department of Labor. The applicant must convince the official asking the questions that they are fit to get the H1B visa. This visa category requires that the beneficiary (the foreign worker) have a bachelor’s degree. Remember that the An H-1B visa denial can occur at any of the three main application process stages, which are: Getting a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the U. H-1B Change of Status vs Consular Processing H1B visa holders can opt for consular processing for a variety of reasons when they decide to transition from non-immigrant to immigrant status. This question confirms your employer’s involvement in your visa process. r/Chinavisa. An interview is required at the U. r/USCIS. During your visa appointment, you may need to leave your passport with the U. Entry to the United States: Once your H1B visa is stamped, you can travel to the U. Sample Answer: "My H1-B visa is being sponsored by XYZ Corporation. Premium Processing: An optional service offered by USCIS that expedites the review of an H-1B visa petition. Learn about the validity of visa fees, processing times, and proactive measures to expedite delayed cases. Can I schedule my interview in a different consulate than the one mentioned on I 797? All posts are moderated, so it will take time for your post to appear! Consular Processing ; H1B interview in a different consulate H1B interview in a different consulate. visa. Date: February 27th, 2024. For applicants living in the United States in a different status, such as an E-2 or H1B, they can apply for an adjustment status (I-485) if the priority date is current in their category This is an important element to expect for the I-485 interview. How did you find out about this Premium delivery does not mean that your stamping at consulate will be fast processed. We know going into your H1B visa interview is stressful. no mobile phones. Persons with special Understanding the H-1B Visa Interview Process. The H-1B application process is highly complex and involves numerous steps, which are described in detail on this page. Key Takeaways: I-797 Forms are crucial in H-1B visa processing, including types like I-797, I-797A, I-797B, and I-797C. consular post A total 2,634,328 H1B visas were approved between 2007 and 2017, while in 2018, 75% of the H1B visa holders were Indians, says The Economic Times. So they are no longer valid to work. Your employer will file your h1b extension or transfer in this category. Has anyone been through this process. There are two options: requesting a change of status or consular processing. The main difference is that the approval notice when filed under the consular processing, it does not have I-94 attached to it. If booked together, do they call spouse and me together for interview for H1 and H4? H1B/H4 Chennai processing time for in person interviews (not dropbox) upvotes r/Chinavisa. Embassy and its nine Consulates in Mexico provide routine nonimmigrant visas services. Then depending on the Read the blog and prepare for your H1B visa interview by learning the common interview questions and tips to answer, which will help you secure the H1B visa. H-1B Visa interview : Step-by-step process. Customer: I am filing H1B and going for Consular processing in India. The applications open every year in spring. Consulate is unable to approve and issue the visa stamp immediately and needs additional time for review of the application or other related work. I already had my OFC and consulate appointment booked so I didn't see this option. Embassy or Consulate for visa processing for one day to several weeks, depending on the current processing times at the U. Many H1B workers from India and China opt for going to Mexico or Canada for visa stamp to avoid traveling back to the home country. H1B spouse in US on expired visa but valid H1B status with approved extension i797. , avoiding travel and starting employment quickly. USCIS notifies the given The Change of Status From L1 to H1B Visa - Process. green card is approved. To be on the safer side, check with the U. Embassy or Consulate may waive your in-person interview requirement if you meet specific conditions. Basically why you don't see the waiver questions is because you've chosen continue application instead of close application and open new application. Navigating the H1B Visa Stamping Process in the USA. The National Visa Center is the US office responsible for preparing preparing documents and scheduling interviews at local Consulates or Embassies. r/h1b. Allows applicants to re-enter the U. It means your status is not valid. Thus, consular processing timeframes can vary greatly depending upon factors such as processing times at the National Visa Center and interview backlogs at the relevant consulate. Embassy and Consulates try to keep the visa issuance wait times as short as possible. state. Visitor Visa (B2 Visa) Spouse Visa (K3 Visa) L1/L2 Visa; H4 Visa; Green Card; Business Visa (B1 Visa) If the consular officer uncovers information that calls into question the applicant’s eligibility for H1B classification during the 221(g) processing – including inability to verify the assignment to the end-client location – the consulate generally returns the H1B petition to the USCIS for review and potential revocation. Before you can enter, the authorities might ask for your appointment letter, original passport and receipt for the visa application fee. We encourage applicants to check embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, and to learn more about the embassy’s operating status and services. However, I need to travel to my home country during the month of Feb 2021. To begin a visa application, please visit our online appointment system to schedule an interview appointment. Instructions for the H-1B visa interviews are as follows – . ” When you submit a U. When you reach the consulate, you will have to stand in a line outside the consulate. The process to apply for H1B Visa stamping is pretty much the same as Consular processing requires applicants to obtain their H1B visa through a U. Here, your documents will be reviewed, and you’ll undergo biometric verification. consulate or embassy in your current country. The same interview waiver option is available for H1B Visa renewal as well. But i am in US ON F1 but my h1b approved in consular processing with I797B without nay consulate name on it. please have a look on and suggest me . Embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States. immigrant visa processing at the Montreal Consulate. As per given 221G document to me, biometrics was not required for me but depends on case to case. citizens and facilitate trade and friendship between the people of the United H1B Visa Cap. Visa Appointment Service telephone call center. Administrative processing - The consular officer could not conclude you were elegible for the visa sought and additional administrative processing of your application is required. OFC Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 a. Filled my case in October 2023, in March 12 my case was approved with no interview and March 28 got my gc 🙏🏽🙏🏽 Good luck After you have completed the steps on the Immigrant Visa Process on usvisas. Sort by: Best. Given below are the steps in H1B Visa Consular Processing: 1: File Form I-140 with the USCIS with a request for Consular Processing. S. e. 2. Check the embassy or consulate website to see if you need an in-person visa interview or qualify for the visa waiver program. 6,800 petitions are reserved for H1B1 visas for Chile and Singapore nationals, while the rest for H1B visas. Please guide/advise. Check the notice stuck inside the passport for next steps. ), those non-immigrant visas would have got cancelled at the time of consular interview. In your H1b application you can request consular processing or if the person reviewing your H1b application deems it fit for consular processing, they can give you a conditional H1b approval with consular processing. If I opt for consular processing can I still go to the existing dropbox appointment with my I797B instead of I797A? or Do I have to attend an in person interview? C. If you are applying for an H1B visa from your own country, you will be asked to go to the US Consulate for an interview. Get some How to Get H1B Visa Interview Appointment? What are the H1B Interview Documents to Bring? How Long is the H1B Visa Interview? When Will I Get the H1B Visa after One of the steps to obtaining an H1B work visa form abroad is the interview at the US Consulate Office in your country. If you want you enter the consulate, you will have to be a visa applicant. with a valid H1B visa stamp: Both H1B consular processing and change of status offer viable pathways to work in the United States under an H1B visa. Consular interview Consulate: Chennai Date: December 21, 2022. My experience in detail Date : Feb 8th 2023 (Bio metric) Feb 10th 2023 (Interview – Mobile and Bag locker available but with me my parent came so I kept things with them. Embassies and Consulates General Choose your specific location by clicking below. In order to allow for the processing of H-1B petitions that did not opt for premium processing, the USCIS may suspend premium processing for all H-1B petitions for a season. 5 months i. Even with a USCIS-approved petition, you will still need to pass a consulate The H1B visa interview assesses eligibility and asks about employment details, qualifications, and plans after visa expiration. The H-1B visa interview is a crucial aspect of the visa application process. Thanks. Me: Good Morning; CO: Good Morning, can I get your passport; When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. Members Online. Supporting documents may vary depending on which US consulate you are visiting for your visa interview. US Visa & Immigration. H1B visa requires a very comprehensive screening process, which also includes an If you are applying for an H1B visa from your own country, you will be asked to go to the US Consulate for an interview. Embassy or Consulate in which H1B Visa Interview – Cake Walk; Visa Interview Questions – Master List; Green Card. My CEAC status online shows Refused even when H1B visa holders can opt for consular processing for a variety of reasons when they decide to transition from non-immigrant to immigrant status. This expedited procedure, known as the Interview Waiver Program (IWP), primarily benefits those seeking to renew their visa in the same category. After one hour one Indian officer called me An in-person interview is not mandatory for consular processing, the only requirement for H1b activation through consular processing is you need visa stamping for h1 activation. Wait for the pickup email or premium delivery. The following H1B visa interview tips will help you best prepare for the interview. I attended my first H1B interview at the consulate. Citizenship and Immigration H1B dropbox processing times - 2024 (and is interview faster?) Hi, I have my visa dropbox appointment in April and want to get an estimate of how long I would have to stay in India - I am not allowed to work from home and can spend max 3-4 weeks outside US. in lieu of the EAD, even if s/he has a pending I-485. You can review the five steps to prepare for the interview in this previous article. Schedule your interview at a U. Will that be any issue? can you share your experience if you already attended the interview in third country’s consulate? I have attended H1b interview at Just an update! I finally got the interview waiver. The H1B visa interview is the final part of the application before they issue the visa. H-1B Premium Processing Suspension. kinjal09 Newbie. Aug 11, 2022 I have H1B Visa interview at Vancouver consulate on 29 August. You have this. Please verify all document requirements for your specific When additional documents are requested, the consular officer will give you a refusal letter that asks you to submit additional documents. I cancelled my appointment and waited 24 hours. embassy or consulate for consular processing, which usually takes an entire day. COVID-19 Travel Information No Longer in Effect: CDC’s Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic ceased to be in effect as of 12:01 a. Expect inquiries regarding your job, employer, academic qualifications, and plans to work in the U. Processing times for H1B visa applications at Indian consulates, such as the U. Aug 11, 2022 2 0. Processing in Hyderabad VAC, Dropbox and collection in Mumbai Ceac Status: Nov 17 – Submitted US Visa Interview Process and Experience at Chennai Consulate . Below is a summary that clarifies some of these complex concepts: Considerations of Filing a [] how will premium processing affect me in both options? In case of consular processing with premium processing, If I get my application approved in 15 days will I have to choose an interview date sooner ? will premium processing with cos make my how will premium processing affect me in both options? In case of consular processing with premium processing, If I get my application approved in 15 days will I have to choose an interview date sooner ? will premium processing with cos make my The first essential step toward a successful interview is preparation. consulate in your home country. Attend the visa interview with your approval notice (Form I-797), passport, and other necessary documents. US Visa Interview Process and Experience at Chennai Consulate . Sometimes, you may or may not find a visa interview appointment at the same location that you selected during the completion of Form DS-160. It’s how most people from India apply for family-based immigrant visas. Your H1B visa interview will be held at a US Consulate or the US Embassy in your country. For first-time H-1B applicants, this is usually the consulate that is closest to the If your H1B Visa petition was applied with USCIS as Consular Processing, you must get visa stamping done at a US Consular or US Embassy. applicants may be called for a second interview, during which consular officers seek additional clarifications Additionally, due to Covid-19, many Consulates may still be backlogged in summer/fall 2021, so in 2021, it may take longer than usual to get an H-1B appointment at a U. I have not yet filled DS 160. CEAC may show this status: Administrative Processing or ; Refused. Before you go, there are five things Continue reading "The H1B Interview: 5 Keys to Preparing" H-1B petitions approved by USCIS for consular processing are forwarded to the Department of State for review. Open comment sort options Staying in US and keep working while applying consular processing for employment green card comments. Get some information or general knowledge on what the visa is Step 7: Know What to Do After the Interview. General Preparation. H1B Visa Interview Questions asked by the US Consulate officer. I did this. Schedule your interview. and varies based on the circumstances of each case. This change will apply to all visa categories except B1/B2 short term visitor visas, which will continue to be processed at every consular section. Once you clear the interview and obtain the stamp, you will be approved for entry into the US. Below is the table that lists the average processing times in days for H1B Dropbox submissions at the US Consulate in Chennai in the last 12 months. Go and get your stuff sorted out. However H1B Consular Processing upvotes H1B visa interview and entering the USA upvote r/USCIS. Had my first H1B application interview got a white 221g slip. On the other hand, a change of status, though generally faster, can be subject to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing backlogs. So, I basically want to know: What is Section 221g of the INA. Unlike change of status, you can file an H-1B with consular processing both inside and outside the US. I have been using GC-EAD for my current employer, where I am trying to switch to H1B for travel purposes. So show up well in advance if you have a slot at Chennai consulate. Persons with incomplete applications will not be admitted. The 221G slip given to me said to walk-in on any business day between 10 AM to 11 AM. Some visa types may have longer wait times for the application appointment and processing. Citizenship and Immigration Services or the Federal Government of the Consular processing your H-1B petition means that you apply for the visa at a U. Hi, Recently(3rd March 2014) I have attended H1 Visa interview in Hyderabad, VO asked basic questions about my employer and they took all my documents (Passport, I 797, I 129, Client letter with agreement, LCA). The consular officer will ask you questions about your work, educational H1B Premium Processing Time. Citizenship AQI updates from U. U. The H-1B visa stamping process involves several steps: During the interview, the consular officer will ask questions about your employment, education, and intentions in the United States. But looks like I may have to file an extension/amendment. Department of State to facilitate faster visa processing for certain applicants. gov to learn what to do when you receive your visa, entering the United States, paying the USCIS Immigrant Fee, When additional documents are requested, the Consular officer will give you a refusal letter that asks you to submit additional documents. embassy or consulate. So, you cannot apply h1b extension for change of status. STEM OPT expires August this year. Me: Good Morning; CO: Good Morning, can I get your passport; One who is in H1B or L-1 status may choose to use the H1B or L-1 to work in the U. For adjustment of status, however, an interview for an employment-based I-485 application is rarely required. All your colleagues are speculating about the timeline and process, and you need sound advice! That is why your UDETI USA Visa Consultant, a seasoned ex-consular officer with tons of H1B experience, wrote this blog. If you are outside the U. The physical condition and accessibility of facilities can vary Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment. Q: When does consular processing begin? A: Consular processing will commence only after the underlying immigration petition is approved by U. If your visa gets approved with consular process. embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information. In the coming sections, we will go over the H-1B process and delve more into interview specifics. I have I-140 approval from my previous employer. My CEAC status online shows Refused even when no form 221g was issued by the visa officer. Will that be any issue? can you share your experience if you already attended the interview in third country’s consulate? I have attended H1b interview at U. " You may receive this message at the end of your interview or later via email. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply for current wait time information: Additional Fees for H and L Visa Categories. Does Consular Processing come with an increased risk of denial at the embassy/consulate or is it the obvious choice given the increased travel This is my 1st H1 interview. Experience 24: H1B with In Person Interview at Hyderabad. Consular processing your H-1B petition means that you apply for the visa at a U. If your visa is approved, congratulations! The consular officer will tell you when and how you can pick up your passport. The interviewer took my passport, asked for my i797 and asked me which company I work for, confirmed with me that it is a H1B renewal, asked for my salary and said my visa was approved. Passport: You must present a passport that is valid at least six months into the future to the U. (My roommate did the same thing) Also, you get to extend your stay in US because you delay your 6 The portal still shows "Pending Consular Authorization" (although it's just been 3 days). Successful processing needs accurate documentation and thorough preparation, concluding with visa Why do you want to work in the United States? Ah, the golden question! This is where you To initiate the H-1B visa process, your sponsoring employer must file an I-129 petition with USCIS on your behalf. Do I need to go to a Visa interview or Do I qualify for Dropbox for H1B stamping? Nov 11th - Passport returned with 221g white slip asking to attend interview on Dec 4th, requested for earlier date, consulate rescheduled me for Nov 16th Nov 16th - Interview at Chennai consulate, Visa officer tells me that I have overstayed my Visa by one year which is strange as I have no gaps in my I-797s since Oct 2013. The H1B visa interview is a critical step in the process of securing your employment in the United States. Commonly known as a US work visa, H1B is a nonimmigrant, employment based visa that is granted to an eligible temporary worker. To attend this interview, you first need to Consular processing has nothing to do with you having a stamped visa. If you are looking for H1B Visa specific dropbox process, you can check out Step by Step Guide for H1B Visa Dropbox Appointment Booking H-1B visa stamping process. , your reached consulate at 7:30AM, the security lined folks up at 7:45AM. Before you go, there are five things Continue reading "The H1B Interview: 5 Keys to Preparing" Schedule your interview at a U. Processing in Hyderabad VAC, Dropbox and collection in Mumbai Ceac Status: Nov 17 – Submitted Advance travel planning and early visa application is important. Embassy and Consulates’ air quality monitors is available. And please let me know the difference and risk factors between CP and COS. Find out the quality of the air we breathe! Find out more. Already scheduled interview waiver appointments will be unchanged, but new Ci/D, F, H, J, L, and M interview waiver appointments, after October 1, will be available only in Chennai. It will take its due time. Documentation for Dropbox : The documentation required for Dropbox submission is similar to the standard H-1B visa stamping process, including passport, photos, DS-160 confirmation, previous U. Finally, if you are going for Consular, got approval but Some applications may require additional administrative processing after the interview before the applications can be processed to conclusion. Consular notification Process for H1b. ) Time : Bio Metric – 9:00 AM and Interview – 9:00 AM Bio metric duration : 2 mins Interview duration : 5 mins (waiting time 90 mins) Documents I carried : Passport, Appointment With AOS, if the visa number is available and the I-485 can be filed concurrently, it may not be necessary to wait for the I-140 approval to start the I-485 processing. (USCIS). Once Hi, Can we file H4 to H1B change of status from Employer B where as H1B was approved from Employer A via Consular processing and not activated yet. h1b Consular processing. Based on U. On the good side, there is no need for you to be out of the country and pursue consular processing. Once your case becomes qualified for an interview, NVC will work You are not required to schedule a separate visa interview appointment as NVC/ KCC has already scheduled your consular appointment. Q. embassy or consulate and request an expedited appointment. The letter will include instructions on how to submit those documents to the embassy. It is the location where the applicant is ideally meant to attend the visa interview. Of course, this interview process is nerve-wracking and time-consuming. Here is a checklist for your visa stamping appointment: Before getting an immigrant visa, if you had been working in the U. Hence, it’s essential to understand the gravity of this step in achieving your goal to work in the US under H-1B visa status. ISSS will then work with the H-1B But i am in US ON F1 but my h1b approved in consular processing with I797B without nay consulate name on it. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. Hope you understand the difference. Interview scheduled on 21st- We reached 15 mins before. I understand that Consular Processing allows for more control over when the H1-B status kicks in, but am curious to know if there are other considerations to keep in mind given the COVID-19 pandemic. A U. H1b consular process - visa stamping that Prepare confidently for your H1-B Visa Interview in 2024 with our guide on Top 20 Questions & Sample Answers, offering expert tips and insights. If you are a Fiancé(e) K-visa applicant: 2 . ; Understanding I-797 forms aids in visa planning, compliance with status regulations, and effective communication with USCIS. The applications of the first 20 thousand applicants with a master’s degree are exempt The H-1B temporary worker visa is designated for individuals coming temporarily to the United States to perform services in a specialty occupation. The call center is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am and 5:00 pm (local time; EST in the United States). Does my time outside of the United States count towards my 6-year maximum in H-1B status? A. After review, a U. You should be prepared to answer a number of fairly The first essential step toward a successful interview is preparation. Embassy or Consulate as soon as possible. Processing times of your visa can be slowed down by administrative delays or security checks no matter Navigate the H1B Dropbox application with ease using our detailed guide, designed specifically for Indians aiming for a career in the USA. I reached the consulate at 9 am for 10. In the event that your change of status has been approved and you are traveling outside the United States or if your H-1B petition has been approved for consular notification, you will need to apply at the U. Process took 30 In some countries, the panel physician will send the results to the U. For detailed information about your visa interview, please visit the U. H1B visa requires a very comprehensive screening process, which also includes an Consular interview Consulate: Chennai Date: December 21, 2022. The LCA has to be filed first before the H1B visa is filed. I was planning to travel to India in December. You will be given a letter stating this; the embassy or consulate will contact you when the In case of a follow up interview, they will tell you which consulate and when you can go for an interview. Does Consular Processing come with an increased risk of denial at the embassy/consulate or is it the obvious choice given the increased travel Attending the Visa Interview and Stamping Process. Embassy in New Delhi and consulates in Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, typically range from 35 to 142 days, depending on the This kind of visa stamping process is called an ‘Interview Waiver’ option and is popularly called the ‘Dropbox Stamping’. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 H1B consular processing means getting an H1B visa stamp at a US embassy outside of the US. Whether you choose it or it is required, consular processing will necessitate traveling to a specific U. The Basics C. H1B must-have a US based, specialty occupation at-hand and your employer must apply for your H1B visa petition with the US Immigration Department. Application process: You must apply for H-4 visa at a U. Embassy or Consulate. consulates are set up around the world to assist and protect U. It's a walk in Interview and the white sheet of paper (221g refusal) is your ticket into the consulate for the interview. This post will take you through the basics of an H1B visa interview and prepare you for everything you would face up until the end of your interview, including how to give the right answers to questions and details to get from your employer. The H1B Visa Interview Process. Location: Hyderabad. Consular processing? Bring passports, a photo, proof of eligibility, your resume, I am trying to know the level of risk in going to Canada for stamping with consular H1B approval in hand and also do US consulate in Canada do stamping for change of status (I mean can we go to Canada for the first H1B stamping rather than extensions). So, I basically want to know: Let's take an up-close look at the interview process and the H1B visa questions that you will be asked. visa application, a consular officer will issue an Discover the latest updates on U. how will premium processing affect me in both options? In case of consular processing with premium processing, If I get my application approved in 15 days will I have to choose an interview date sooner ? will premium processing with cos make my The National Visa Center (NVC) subreddit is for those whose petitions have been approved by USCIS and are now undergoing consular processing. 1) what is the H1B with Consular process. When you attend your H1B visa interview, a consular officer will question you to assess whether you are qualified for the visa. A specialty occupation is defined as one that requires “theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and attainment of a bachelor's or higher degree in a specific field, or its equivalent, as a minimum Most of the mandatory documents are uniformly accepted at every consulate. visas, and employment-related documents. In other countries, the panel physician will give the applicant his/her medical exam results in a sealed envelope and an x-ray which the applicant must bring to the interview. Why H1B Visa Applications Might Be After the H1B Visa interview at the US embassy in Delhi, India, the Visa officer took my passport and told me Congratulations, your visa is approved and I will get the passport in 2-3 days. Embassy or Consulate interview preparation Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions. This is it, my USEM Manila Interview experience. H-1B non-immigrant visa holders in the United States. >>> If a petition is filed as a consular process, the approval One of the steps to obtaining an H1B work visa form abroad is the interview at the US Consulate Office in your country. But before activation (Oct1st) I was let go due to mass layoffs, now my new employer is telling me they will be filing H-1b transfer under consular processing and if approved I would have to depart US and re enter with a stamping wherein I’ll have to go through an interview process. The H1B Visa Interview can be an overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you will set yourself up for success. In most cases, it’ll be sent to the VFS center or a I understand that Consular Processing allows for more control over when the H1-B status kicks in, but am curious to know if there are other considerations to keep in mind given the COVID-19 pandemic. Process took 30 Q: What is consular processing? A: This is the process by which the beneficiary of an immigration petition applies for an immigrant visa with the National Visa Center (NVC) and a U. Please verify all document requirements for your specific H4 spouse + 13 yr old H4 kid experience at consulate today. On the other hand, a change of When someone says, they are applying H1B Visa for an applicant using Consular processing, they are saying that, for the H1B visa applicant to work in US on H1B Visa, they Consular processing. You as The portal still shows "Pending Consular Authorization" (although it's just been 3 days). Unlike COS, this process necessitates international travel and an in-person Key steps include an H1B job offer, DS-160 form completion, visa fee payment, and consular interview scheduling. Your H1B visa stamping interview is a pivotal step in the process. Carefully review After the Interview on usvisas. NVC Processing: After I-140 approval, the National Visa Center processes the case and sends instructions for completing Form DS-260 and submitting supporting documents. Select the U. Please consult an attorney for advice tailored to Visa Approved. H1b interview in new delhi (NVC) subreddit is for those whose petitions have been approved by USCIS and are now undergoing consular processing. 5 weeks to receive the email + 5 weeks to get the stamped visa after submission? Note: Embassies and Consulates may have a separate process for visa cases where the in-person interview requirement is waived. Obtaining an H1B visa is a significant milestone for many professionals looking to work in the United States. It guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days but requires an additional fee. Once the task of finding a legitimate H1B sponsor to make the change from L1 to H1B is done, the rest of the process will involve initiating a new application for an H1B. If you are a first-time H1B applicant, it is very much certain that you will have an interview when This process bypasses the need for a biometric appointment and a face-to-face consular interview. If an employer or sponsor pays an extra premium processing fee to USCIS to have the H1B petition adjudicated (decision) within 15 calendar days, then that petition is said to be filed in H1B Hi hello aspirants. work visa allowing skilled professionals to work in specialized fields like IT, engineering, and healthcare. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country to assess their eligibility for a U. Can I know switch employer on F1 visa and ask new employer to transfer H1B visa without sitting in lottery again If you've applied for Consular Processing: H1B Approved. If the consular officer approves your visa What is Consular Processing? Consular processing is the method you use when applying for a family-based green card from outside the United States. Only time spent in the United The interview waiver for H-1B and H-4 visas is a program introduced by the U. The letter will include instructions on how to send those documents to the Embassy. Now, since 48 months rule came back, I am eligible for dropbox as my visa got expired in Dec 2017. An announcement of the termination of this Amended Order has been published in the Federal Register. This involves applying for an employment-based immigrant visa at a U. Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. You will have to gather the missing items and provide them to the embassy or consulate, and may have to come for additional interviews. In this article, we will cover the step-by-step process for H1B visa stamping using ‘dropbox’ or the ‘interview waiver’ option. In order to get an H-1B visa, your US employer will first have to file an H-1B petition with USCIS, meaning that USCIS always have to approve the H-1B petition first before Foreign nationals with H-1B Cap petitions often have questions regarding travel while filing. m. Good luck. No need to book appointment. With this H1B visa interview questions quick explore the reality. Both consular processing and AOS have their own timelines, application forms, supporting documents, and costs, but the overall Arrive at consulate. I was early by 30 mins, and I had to wait at the nearby bus stop until my appointment time. You can review the five steps to prepare for the interview H1B Change of Status allows transitioning to H1B within the U. The National Visa Center is the US office responsible for preparing preparing documents and scheduling interviews at local Consulates or H4 spouse + 13 yr old H4 kid experience at consulate today. There is an OFC office located in all 6 cities in India, where the Consulate or Embassy is located. Please suggest how should I change from in person interview to dropbox now? Should I cancel current interview appointment first and In a significant step towards expediting H1-B visa processing, the US State department is waiving in-person interview requirements at US consulates abroad. The H1B visa is a U. If yes, can we file H4 to H1B change of status and change of employer at the same time and how long will Customer: I am filing H1B and going for Consular processing in India. There used to be a time when H1B visa interview questions used to be by the book. The Embassy will schedule the interview at an appropriate time. m Most of the mandatory documents are uniformly accepted at every consulate. Theirs system apparently dint have my photo taken on Dec 10 yet, so asked me to Navigating the intricate H1B visa process is challenging. L Visa Experience at SF Chinese Consulate: January 2024 That is why they suggested for consular processing in which my h1 will not be effective on oct 1, it would come into effective from the date I get a stamping in the consulate. Applicants applying in the same visa class and whose previous visa expired within the last 48 months may be eligible for interview waiver. F1 to H1B Change of Embassy or Consulate: This is where you will have your visa interview. The interview takes place in a US consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country. When you apply for a visa renewal, a consular officer at a U. I Have Attended my H1B Interview on 8th Feb 2023 I have my H1B petition approved for consular processing but I am not able to find an appointment at the consulates in my home country. The following are some questions you should be prepared to answer, irrespective of whether you are going to the Consulate for a fresh H1B visa or an H1B renewal. Reply Nonimmigrant visa interview appointments are booked online through the Visa Appointment Service website: https: it will be reviewed by a consular officer as quickly as possible. r/h1b H-1B non-immigrant visa holders in the United States. On the day of the interview, bring all the necessary documents, including your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, bank statements, labor condition application, and employment verification letter, to the U. . From what I understand I need to leave the US to get my h1b interview and stamp? Question is can this be done in Canada or do I have to go back to my country of citizenship? Share Add a Comment. Here is the link When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. Consulate or Embassy may issue a visa for travel to a United States’ port of entry. An interview with an immigration official; These processes are largely the same. You are not required to schedule a separate visa interview appointment as NVC/ KCC has already scheduled your consular appointment. If your EB2 NIW case is current and you received an "interview cancelled and notice ordered" update, followed by "case ready to be scheduled for an interview," it's important to understand the immigration interview process and stay updated on your visa bulletin status. Either you are still in limbo or stuck in the endless wait or just received what we all wish for, the elusive Greencard, this reddit space is for you. companies to employ foreign workers for Corp to Corp Jobs in specialty occupations, the interview process is thorough and can be daunting. Consular Interview: The applicant attends a consular interview at the U. Need Help urgent Hi Shervin, Thanks for your time and valuable information,here again i have few more question . While the answer may seem straightforward, it depends on the type of H petition filed. For life and death emergencies that require travel to the United States, contact the U. consulate or embassy abroad. They are covering all the expenses related to the visa I have a dropbox H1b appointment scheduled for the first week of January. Upon approval of the petition, the next step is the visa interview at a U. The right choice depends on your travel plans, current location, and work The visa interview is a decisive component of consular processing and can influence the final decision on your application. Posted By: Admin June 19, 2015. H1B Interview Questions & Other Vital Details. If you are a Fiancé(e) K-visa applicant: The H-1B Dropbox is a streamlined process for certain H-1B visa applicants to submit their documents for H-1B visa renewal without attending a traditional consular interview. My slot was 9:45am. EDT on May 12, 2023. Once approved, this petition is a work permit in the form of I-797 which allows Then had to sit due to the long queue and when it was my turn, I had the visa interview. It could be one of many things: administrative processing, missing documents, consular interview, etc. The H1B interview is a very strict and structured process. Choose your visa interview date carefully and remember it. The H1B visa stamping process begins after USCIS approves your H1B visa petition. All Visas. With consular processing, you’ll have to wait in your home country until your U. Process: On-Line Facility to Book OFC Appointment. that the applicant was not eligible for a visa after completing and executing the visa application and any Read our breakdown of the key differences between consular processing and adjustment of status . To be specific, would the process take ~ 2. law, not everyone who applies is qualified or eligible for a visa to come to the United States. 30 slot and they let me in. Fast Track with Premium Processing? File an I-907. IMPORTANT! Failure to schedule and complete your biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Center will result in the cancellation of your consulate visa interview. By Mrinal, May 13 There are only two possible outcomes for your H1B visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate: Your consulate officer will either issue your H1B visa or refuse it. However, if you or any family member did not pay all the necessary fees, you will be asked to pay any unpaid fees at the U. Travel outside the United States while a change of status is pending will abandon that change of status. To give yourself the best advantage possible, you should be ready for some of the most common Continue reading "10 Common H1B Interview Questions and How to The U. If you do not contact the U. My own interview was The interview process is part of the consular processing of this nonimmigrant visa. If you are not living in USA while applying. My H1B was approved with dates October 2022 - September 2025 with consular processing. This information can provide clarity on your next steps. The process begins with the employer filing an immigrant petition on behalf of the H1B visa holder. All H-1B applicants must discuss any travel plans with the hiring department. Embassy or Consulate If your EB2 NIW case is current and you received an "interview cancelled and notice ordered" update, followed by "case ready to be scheduled for an interview," it's important to understand the immigration interview process and stay updated on your visa bulletin status. Note: The medical examination is not a complete physical examination When additional documents are requested, the consular officer will give you a letter asking you to submit additional items. While premium processing is advantageous in many cases when it comes to H-1B visas, it is not a guaranteed service. Consular Processing requires a visa interview abroad, travel Processing times also vary, with consular processing potentially taking longer due to visa interview scheduling and possible consular delays. I have not activated this visa yet by travelling outside the states to attend consulate interview and get my H1b visa stamped. I will be driving from Seattle to Vancouver. Don't stress out until you have to. Do I need to go to a Visa interview or Do I qualify for Dropbox for H1B stamping? This change will apply to all visa categories except B1/B2 short term visitor visas, which will continue to be processed at every consular section. Wait for your H1B visa to be stamped into your passport. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days. So my F1 visa expired last year. Things that you cannot take inside the consulate are cell phones, A total 2,634,328 H1B visas were approved between 2007 and 2017, while in 2018, 75% of the H1B visa holders were Indians, says The Economic Times. K. In the case of consular processing, the focus of the interview may differ based on the Questions about consular processing. The interviews were often over in 5 minutes or less. Effective December 18, 2015, the U. Risk of denial during the consular interview, delaying entry into the U. To give yourself the best advantage possible, you should be ready for some of the most common Continue reading "10 Common H1B Interview Questions and How to H1b consular process - visa stamping that follows r/h1b. If it is a consular interview request, then you'll likely have to change your plans. While the case is in administrative processing, the application must remain refused as the applicant has not H-1B petitions approved by USCIS for consular processing are forwarded to the Department of State for review. Upon approval of a consular H-1B petition, you will This guide will help you understand the H1B to Green Card process, including H1B visa to green card processing time and the necessary steps for H1B sponsorship. Even if the portal determines you are eligible for Dropbox they might still call you for in person interview. Consulate for a new H-1B visa. If you’re case requires more information after a dropbox you might be called for an interview. How many H1B employees will be working in the same position. to become a green card holder may do so either through filing an I-485 application to adjust status or by attending a consular processing interview to obtain an immigrant visa at a U. Date: October 21, 2019. This subreddit is not affiliated with U. H1B Visa Stamping: Schedule an appointment with a U. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Embassy or Consulate General Find important information about U. Each I-797 form serves a distinct purpose, from petition approval to status changes and consular processing. Embassy or Consulate for visa issuance. Failure to Appear for Interview- If you cannot appear at your scheduled interview, contact the U. The process completed within 20minutes. 5 weeks to receive the email + 5 weeks to get the stamped visa after submission? After the H1B Visa interview at the US embassy in Delhi, India, the Visa officer took my passport and told me Congratulations, your visa is approved and I will get the passport in 2-3 days. One of the steps to obtaining an H1B work visa form abroad is the interview at the US Consulate Office in your country. , you would normally have a non-immigrant visa such as H1B, L1, etc (some of you might even be working on EAD if you are on H4, L2, etc. It is conducted by a consular Below, we’ve put together some of the most common questions that Consular Officers ask during an H1B interview. COS Denial I had booked h1b visa in person interview appointment as during that time 24 months rule was there for interview waiver program. H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that permits foreign workers in specialty occupations to enter the country. often two weeks or more after the first interview, at the consulate’s discretion. Consular The consular officer will not be able to complete the processing of your visa. Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in This interview will ask general questions that relate to specifics about the visa you have applied for. The H-1B visa interview typically takes place at the U. As this visa category allows U. I went 2 hours ahead. Based on the definition, it means “the consular officer determined that the applicant was not eligible for a visa after completing and executing the visa application and any required interview. Embassy/Consulate directly. Common H1B Visa Interview Questions. Department of Labor (DOL); Filing an I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker Oct 11th 2023 : Sharing details of H1B visa renewal at Guadalajara Mexico (With I-797B petition & without i-94) I-797B is a consular processing petition approved by USCIS that mandates applicant to step out of country and finish stamping and can continue work in USA This process bypasses the need for a biometric appointment and a face-to-face consular interview. They must be prepared to discuss job duties, employer sponsorship, and any other Nonimmigrant Visas. Remember that the questions may not be exactly as worded here, but could be a variation of these questions. Your responses should be forthright and precise. Bring all documents. Embassy or Consulate The Chennai Consulate’s processing times trends are similar to the other US consulates, where the processing times were very high last year and they continue to come down this year since then. I had prepared for AR as I got to know that for the Hyderabad location people are getting Administrative Processing. Bring appointment confirmation letter, ds160 and latest passport. H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that permits a company to hire workers in specialty occupations. visa stamp refusal under “administrative processing” means that the U. While the H-1B already has an application process that is more complicated than most other visas, this fiscal year, things are a little bit Any person planning to travel to the US must undergo a visa interview process at the US embassy/consulate. Guys, I understand that if you submit your H1B petition through Consular Processing, you have to travel to another country, book an interview slot with the US embassy there, and present your passport for H1B stamping before returning to US (upon which your H1B is activated). While this is not just a formality, there is no reason to be concerned about the interview, so long as you are prepared. gov, including paying the necessary fees and submitting the required immigrant visa application form (DS-260), Affidavit of Support, and supporting documents to the National Visa Center (NVC), they will review your file for completeness. The consular officer will inform you if additional administrative processing is necessary. Just put in mind that each experience my vary and whats in the video is only to guide yo Prior to your interview at the Consulate or Embassy, you are required to give your Biometrics information that includes fingerprints and photograph at one of (VAC) for Visitor Visa Fingerprinting & digital photograph, the final step in the visa process is the interview at the embassy or consulate. Consulate abroad, and if an H-1B applicant is already in the U. If you are currently in the USA on a visa like F1 or H4, then you can apply your H1B in lottery using either option: US Consulate / Embassy Still Processing your Visa: hi I had an official interview and consular told me “I am approving your visa” after that my status has been “Your passport is still with the US Embassy/Consulate” for In 2023, there was an unprecedented occurrence in the H1B lottery process. Instead of adjusting status while in the US, you’ll complete the process through a US consulate or embassy in your home country. Embassy and Consulates in India will begin collecting an additional fee of $4,500 for certain H-1B petitions and L-1A and L-1B petitions that fall under the provisions of Public Law 1141-230. Consular processing is little bit complicated. The letter will include instructions on how to send those documents to the consulate. Section 221g exists in the U. Consular processing is used for those who are overseas or those who will be traveling overseas while the application is pending. In general wait times for those cases are shorter, but they are not reflected in the table below. Maximized my stem opt and actually got on h1b even without interview since you can amend the consular h1b to CoS just before stem opt expiration. Usually, employers file H1B under consular processing when the applicant is outside of the US. While Immediate relatives and fiancé(e) visas show swift progress, Family Preference and Employment-based applications experience extended delays. Administrative processing takes additional time after the interview. Consular processing is different from Adjustment of Status (AOS), which is used when applying for a green card from inside the United States. H1B Visa Interview Questions If you are looking to come to the United States for work in a highly specialized job role, even with an approved petition filed on your behalf by your prospective US employer, you will need to attend an H1B visa interview. embassy or consulate outside the United States, provide all required documentation and attend an interview if necessary. USCIS approves around 65,000 petitions per year starting from October 1 st to September 30 th of the following year. consulate or embassy. What Are the Most Commonly Asked Questions for the H1B Visa? When you go to the visa interview, you will have to pass through the Embassy security first. As part of the visa interview process, the US Consular officer reviews all the submitted documents and information and decides whether to approve or reject the visa for that individual. Traditionally, USCIS conducts a single lottery round, but due to an unexpectedly lower number of completed applications, a second round of Process for Interview Waiver or Dropbox appointment Booking India. Note: H-4 visa holders are generally not authorized to work in the United States unless they obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from U. This is my first visa stamping However, if you or any family member did not pay all the necessary fees, you will be asked to pay any unpaid fees at the U. As you start the online application process, you will need to select a location, where you plan to apply for the visa interview at a US Embassy or a US Consulate. duirfxusqfesaqamtnauimnalwsejkmyvkqktvjopbdmcadxzseqpqdr