Update on H1-B 2020 Receipt Notices: What You Need to Know
If you applied for the H1-B 2020 visa and are wondering if you have received your receipt notice, this article will provide you with the latest updates and insights. Since the implementation of a proclamation by the previous administration to freeze the issuance of H-1B, L-1, and J-1 visas, along with green cards not yet approved, these changes have resulted in a period of uncertainty for many applicants.
H1-B Visa Processing During the Suspension
In late June 2020, President Trump signed a proclamation to suspend the issuance of certain visas, including H1-B, L-1, and J-1, to help newly unemployed citizens and residents. This suspension has extended beyond the original deadline, and many are now questioning the status of their petition. As a result, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has not been processing new H1-B applications, leading to a lack of updates for those who submitted their applications on June 22nd.
Recent Developments
Despite the suspension, some law firms have reported receiving receipt notices for applicants who were selected in the lottery. According to anecdotal information from Quora and various law firms, receipt notices for applicants who were part of the premium processing category began arriving about one month ago. More recently, receipt notices for regular cap applicants have also started being distributed.
For example, one of my friend who is a premium processing applicant has received her receipt last week. Another acquaintance from Siemens received an acceptance notice on Friday, further indicating that receipt notices are starting to trickle in.
It's important to note that the pace at which receipt notices are being issued varies. Some applicants may have received their notices earlier than others.
Useful Resources for Tracking Progress
To keep track of the upcoming receipt notices, several resources are available online. ImmigrationGirl provides daily updates and useful information from an immigration attorney. Additionally, USCIS News Updates offers a detailed progress report of the H1-B 2020 lottery, including the number of petitions received.
What to Do Next
If you have not received a receipt notice by now, it's important to stay patient and continue monitoring the resources mentioned above. If you have not yet heard from your attorney, it's advisable to reach out to them to check on your status. Remember that this is a period of uncertainty, but maintaining hope and following the updates closely can help you manage your expectations.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official USCIS H1-B 2020 Lottery page for the latest updates and guidelines.