It is the season for H-1B visa stamping for individuals selected in the 2024 H-1B lottery. The visa registration process for 2024 commenced in January this year and involves several sequential steps starting from October 2023, leading to eligibility for working and residing in the United States.
Timeline and Important Processes in H-1B Visa Stamping:
Employer Petition Submission
Employers submit H-1B petitions on behalf of selected applicants to the USCIS.
Lottery Selection
USCIS conducts a random lottery to select H-1B petitions for further processing.
Visa Registration
Selected applicants are required to complete the H-1B visa registration process, providing necessary information and documentation.
H-1B Visa Application
Applicants submit the complete H-1B visa application, including supporting documents, to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
Appointment Scheduling
Applicants schedule an appointment for the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This may involve an online or telephonic process.
Visa Interview
Applicants attend the visa interview, where a consular officer reviews their application, conducts an interview, and verifies their eligibility.
Document Verification and Biometrics
Applicants may be asked to provide additional documents for verification, and biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) may be collected.
Visa Issuance or Denial
If approved, the applicant’s passport is stamped with the H-1B visa. In case of denial, the applicant receives a written explanation for the decision.
Travel and Port of Entry
Applicants can travel to the United States with their H-1B visa and must present it at the Port of Entry for admission into the country.