Introduction:

As the clock ticks towards April 1, 2015, employers are gearing up for the opening of the H-1B visa application window for 2016. The H-1B visa, a coveted gateway for skilled foreign workers to contribute their expertise to U.S. companies, follows a stringent application process. In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of the H-1B visa application and how AssignmentHippo.com serves as your trusted partner in this journey.

Understanding the H-1B Visa Application Process: The H-1B visa process is an annual ritual with a cap of 85,000 petitions accepted, split into 65,000 for the general category and 20,000 for the U.S. advanced degree category. This cap, however, does not apply to extensions of H-1B status or certain specialized cases, such as educators and J waiver physicians.

Key Steps in the H-1B Visa Application:

  1. Employer Application: Employers initiate the process by applying for H-1B visas on behalf of skilled foreign workers not currently in H-1B status.
  2. April 1 Opening: The application window opens on April 1, 2015, for a start date of October 1, 2015. Given the overwhelming demand, prompt submission is crucial.
  3. Random Lottery: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts a lottery if the number of applications surpasses the cap. Only the randomly selected petitions move forward.
  4. Notification and Start Date: Employers of the selected petitions are notified, and successful candidates can commence work on October 1, 2015.

AssignmentHippo.com’s Role in the H-1B Visa Journey:

  1. Early Preparation: AssignmentHippo.com advises employers on the importance of early preparation, ensuring all documentation is in order for the April 1 kickoff.
  2. Application Submission Support: Our experts guide employers through the intricacies of the application submission process, enhancing the chances of successful petition selection.
  3. Timely Updates: Stay informed with AssignmentHippo.com’s timely updates on H-1B visa trends, regulatory changes, and USCIS announcements.
  4. Specialized Assistance: For cases outside the general H-1B cap, such as extensions or unique categories, AssignmentHippo.com provides specialized assistance tailored to your specific needs.

Anticipating High Demand: With USCIS receiving approximately 172,500 H-1B petitions during the first week of the 2015 application cycle, similar high demand is expected for the 2016 H-1B visa cap. Employers must be strategic and well-prepared to navigate this competitive landscape.

Conclusion:

As employers brace themselves for the H-1B visa application frenzy, AssignmentHippo.com stands as a beacon of support, offering expertise, guidance, and resources to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights as we embark on this H-1B visa journey together.