H-1B – Professional in a Specialty Occupation
Processing times are measured from the date that all required materials are complete. Initial discussions, and partial submission of materials do not start our processing clock. Once all documents and materials are received from you and your department, a projected processing timeline will be emailed to all parties. General H-1B processing stages are:
- Stage 1: Processing at FSVS: Approximately 6 weeks from time request materials are complete. Specific cases may require additional time to obtain a prevailing wage, obtain an Export Control determination, or other extra processing due to the specifics of the case. Such issues can delay processing for 2 weeks to 3+ months.
- Stage 2: Government Processing: All USC H-1B cases are submitted via the USCIS Premium Processing Program. Typically this takes 15 days. However, in some cases the USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). This can delay processing.
- Stage 3: Approval Document Delivery: The USCIS mails the original approval notice to FSVS. This can take from 7-14 days. If the individual is abroad, the approval must be sent to them so that they can obtain a visa stamp in their passport and enter the USA in H-1B status. This can take an additional 2 weeks+.
TN – NAFTA Professional
Total processing time varies depending on whether the case involves Pre-Flight Inspection or a USCIS filing. A projected processing timeline will be sent to you and your department when processing begins.
- Stage 1: Processing at FSVS: For either Pre-Flight Inspection or USCIS filing: 4 Weeks.
- Stage 2: Government Processing:
- Via Pre Flight Inspection (PFI): Variable.
- Via USCIS Filing: 15 Days. Does not include delays that may result from a USCIS Request for Evidence (RFE).
- Stage 3: Approval Document Delivery:
- Via Pre Flight Inspection (PFI): Immediate.
- Via USCIS Filing: 14 days.
O-1 – Alien of Extraordinary Ability
Total processing varies by type of case. A projected processing timeline will be sent to you and your department when processing begins.
E-3 – Australian Treaty Professional in Specialty Occupation
Total processing varies by type of case. A projected processing timeline will be sent to you and your department when processing begins.
- Stage 1: Processing at FSVS: 4-6 Weeks.
- Stage 2: Government Processing:
- Via U.S. Consulate in Australia: Depends on Consular Appointment calendar.
- Via USCIS Filing: 15 days.
- Stage 3: Document Delivery:
- Via U.S. Consulate in Australia: 1-2 days.
- Via USCIS Filing: 14 days.