U.S. Work Visa and USCIS Premium Processing Time

1. What types of U.S. work visas are available?


There are several types of U.S. work visas available, including the H-1B specialty occupation visa, the L-1 intracompany transferee visa, the E-1 treaty trader visa, the E-2 treaty investor visa, the O-1 extraordinary ability visa, the R-1 religious worker visa, and the TN NAFTA professional visa.

2. How do I apply for a U.S. work visa?


In order to apply for a U.S. work visa, you must first determine which visa best suits your situation. There are several types of work visas available to foreign nationals, such as the H1B visa, the L1 visa, the O1 visa, the E2 visa, and the TN visa. Once you have determined the appropriate visa for your situation, you must fill out the necessary application forms and follow any other requirements that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may have in place. After submitting your application, you will be required to attend an interview with a consular officer at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, the officer will ask you questions related to your purpose of travel and determine if you meet all of the requirements of the visa.

3. Are there any special requirements for obtaining a U.S. work visa?


Yes, there are many special requirements for obtaining a U.S. work visa. Depending on the type of visa, the requirements can vary, but in general, applicants must have a job offer from a U.S. employer, provide evidence of their qualifications and experience, demonstrate proof of financial support, pass a medical examination, and meet other requirements listed by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.

4. What documents do I need to apply for a U.S. work visa?


The documents required to apply for a work visa in the United States vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, all applicants will need to submit a valid passport, a completed application form (Form DS-160), a recent photograph, proof of financial support, evidence of professional qualifications or studies, and other appropriate supporting documents (such as a letter from an employer, an invitation from an organization in the U.S., etc.). Depending on the visa category, other documents may be required as well.

5. How long is the processing time for a U.S. work visa?


The processing time for a U.S. work visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, processing times range from 4-6 weeks for nonimmigrant visas, to several months or longer for immigrant visas.

6. What is the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


The USCIS Premium Processing Service is an optional service for certain employment-based petitions and applications. It allows petitioners to pay an additional fee in order to have their applications processed within 15 calendar days. This expedited processing service also provides the petitioner with an update on the status of the application within 15 calendar days.

7. What type of cases can be expedited with USCIS Premium Processing?


USCIS Premium Processing is available for certain types of immigration applications, such as: Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker); Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers); certain types of Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status); and Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).

8. How much does it cost to use the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


The USCIS Premium Processing Service costs an additional fee of $1,440.

9. Is there a benefit to using the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes. The USCIS Premium Processing Service guarantees a 15-day processing time for certain visa petitions. During this time, the USCIS will review your application and provide an answer on the status of the application within 15 days. This service saves a lot of time and hassle for applicants who need to receive an answer quickly on the status of their visa petition. Additionally, the service offers a refund if the answer is not provided within 15 days.

10. How long does it take to get an answer when using the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


USCIS states that they typically process Premium Processing Service requests within 15 calendar days. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the complexity of the case.

11. What happens if my petition is denied when using the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


If your petition is denied after using the USCIS Premium Processing Service, you will not receive a refund of the premium processing fee. However, you may be able to appeal or file a motion to reopen or reconsider the decision.

12. Are there any restrictions on who can use the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes, there are certain restrictions on who can use the USCIS Premium Processing Service. The following individuals are not eligible to use the service:

• Applicants with a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status;
• Applicants who have already been granted an extension of stay or change of status;
• Applicants with cases pending before the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO);
• Applicants who have not submitted the required fees for their application; and
• Applicants who have been denied a previous request for premium processing.

13. How does the USCIS Premium Processing Service compare to expedited processing of nonimmigrant visas through a U.S. consulate or embassy?


The USCIS Premium Processing Service allows expedited processing of certain immigration applications and petitions filed with the USCIS. It includes 15-day processing of Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) and Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker). Expedited processing of nonimmigrant visas through a U.S. consulate or embassy is a different process. This process is managed by the Department of State, and it allows for expedited issuance of visas to eligible travelers who are already outside the U.S. or who are already in the U.S. without a valid visa when eligible for another visa category.

14. Are there any fees associated with the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes, the USCIS charges a $2,500 fee for the Premium Processing Service.

15. What is the deadline for filing a petition with the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


The USCIS Premium Processing Service has an expedited 15-calendar-day processing time for eligible petitions and applications. The deadline for filing a petition with the USCIS Premium Processing Service is the same as the regular filing deadline for the petition or application.

16. Are there any other services included in the USCIS Premium Processing Service package?


No, the USCIS Premium Processing Service only includes expedited processing of certain applications and petitions. It does not include any other services.

17. Are there any other benefits to using the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes. In addition to the 15-day processing time guarantee, USCIS Premium Processing Service offers peace of mind knowing that your application is given priority over non-premium applications. Additionally, USCIS will inform you if any additional information or documentation is required and guarantees a response to any inquiry about the status of your application.

18. Are there any risks associated with using the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes, there are certain risks associated with using the USCIS Premium Processing Service. These include the possibility that the application will be denied, additional requests for evidence (RFEs) may be issued, and the processing time may still exceed the 15-day timeframe. Additionally, if the application is denied or additional requests for evidence (RFEs) are issued, the premium processing fee will not be refunded.

19. Do I need to submit any additional documents when filing a petition with the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


Yes, you will need to submit any required documents or evidence to support your petition. The USCIS Premium Processing Service does not waive any filing requirements or provide any additional benefits.

20. How does USCIS make decisions regarding petitions filed under the USCIS Premium Processing Service?


USCIS makes decisions on petitions filed under the USCIS Premium Processing Service based on the information provided in the application and all accompanying documents. Decisions are based on whether or not the applicant has met all eligibility requirements and any other legal requirements in order to be approved. USCIS officers may also consider relevant policy guidance, executive orders, and other applicable law.