Getting an H-1B visa extension can be a complicated and stressful process, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process and timelines. That’s why Imagility is here to help! We understand the importance of your H-1B visa extension and will guide you through the process step-by-step. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the H-1B visa extension process and timelines for you to plan and prepare for your H1-B extension. Read on to learn more about the H-1B visa extension process!
H-1B visa extension options
You can apply for an H-1B visa extension for different time periods. The important thing is to apply for an extension six months prior to the expiration of your current visa.
1-Year H-1B extension
You can apply for an H-1B extension after you have completed six years. You can do so in one-year intervals. There are certain conditions to apply for a one-year H-1B extension; you must have filed a PERM petition or form I-140, 365 days before the expiration of the six-year validity.
3-Year H-1B extension
You can apply for an H-1B extension status for up to 3 years. The only condition you need to fulfill is having an approved I-140 petition for the EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 employment-based green card, and the immigrant visa number is unavailable.
The 240-day Grace Period
While applying for an H-1B extension, it is not necessary for your H-1B extension to be approved before your current H-1B status ends. In that case, you get a grace period of 240 days. You just need to meet the following criteria:
- USCIS has received your H-1B extension petition before your current H-1B status expires.
- The H-1B holder has a valid status while filing an H-1B extension.
- The sponsoring employee must file the petition before the current H-1B status expires.
H-1B Extension Processing Time
H-1B extension can take a long time as the demand for H-1B is increasing with each passing year. Various factors contribute to deciding the H-1B extension processing time, for example, which service center handles your H-1B extension case, how many cases are pending at the service center, the number of staff available, etc. Typically, it takes around 4 weeks to 6 months, depending on/if RFE is issued. For the latest data, use the USCIS Processing Times tool. To check the processing time, you can open the USCIS processing time tool and choose the form you are filling out and then the category, followed by the service center or the field officer processing it.
H-1B Extension Documents Checklist
After discussing H-1B extension options and processing time, let’s look at the H-1B extension documents you must have for filing the extension petition.
For employees
- A copy of the valid passport, along with the original H-1B visa
- USCIS approved I-797 notice
- I-94 arrival/departure form with a departure date that has not expired
- Resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Employment letter
- Last 3 payslips
- University Bachelor’s/advanced degree
- Recommendation letter from previous employers
For employers
- A copy of the job offer letter demonstrating the salary, job title, and duties to perform.
- Job description
- Firm Brochure/marketing material
- A copy of the firm’s recent financial statement/business plan/annual plan (if available)
For updated information, refer to the USCIS website.
How Imagility can help
Imagility is a top-notch immigration software designed to take care of the end-to-end immigration needs of beneficiaries collaboratively with petitioners and attorneys. The platform’s AI and ML capabilities help individuals build effective visa petitions, including H-1B visa extensions, while showcasing the essential points that need extra attention. The platform enables you to collaborate with petitioners and attorneys to create complete, well-structured petitions.
Reach out to us for a demo today at sales@imagility.co
Call us at +1 603 782 4622/+1 617 865 6588.
For more info, visit us at www.imagility.co
