H1B Filings Will Soon Be Accepted By USCIS

As April 01, 2018 approaches USCIS will commence accepting new H1b visa quota based applications. Due to the fiscal calendar year of the federal government, the earliest date to start new employment will be no sooner than October 1, 2018. As cap space is limited, it is important not to wait to file petitions for this type of visa.

Additionally, recently announced reforms from the Obama Administration will not increase the numerical limits for these petitions. Space is limited and availability requires prompt filing when USCIS commences accepting new petitions. The numerical limit on the H-1b visas has routinely been exceeded in recent years, according to government statistics. The Law Office of Grant Kaplan is currently accepting and commencing preparation of H-1B petitions for the April 1, 2018 filing deadline.

Please call to inquire about our fees and service overview for these types of filings.

Additionally, it is important to remember that not all H-1b visa petitions are subject to the numerical limitations imposed by Congress. For example:

  • Extensions/Renewals
  • Amended petitions
  • Transfers
  • Institution of higher education are not subject to the cap and
  • Certain non-profits are not subject to the cap

However, most new petitions remain subject to the strict numerical limitations and in order to ensure a timely filing of the petition to provide the best opportunity for acceptance, first day filing is recommended.