Immigration

Srinivasa Reddy Kandi: A Guide to Successfully Extending Your H-1B Visa

February, 13, 2025-05:11

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A Guide to Successfully Extending Your H-1B Visa
Navigating the intricacies of U.S. immigration regulations can prove to be a daunting endeavor, especially when it involves the extension of your H-1B visa. This non-immigrant visa permits foreign professionals in specialized fields to work temporarily within the United States. In this article, we will present a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to effectively extend your H-1B visa.

Understanding the H-1B Visa Extension
The H-1B visa initially permits a stay of up to three years in the United States, with the possibility of extending it for an additional three years. In specific circumstances, extensions beyond the six-year limit may be granted, particularly for individuals pursuing lawful permanent residency.

Steps to Extend Your H-1B Visa
1. Verify Eligibility for Extension
Before initiating the extension process, confirm your eligibility. Typically, you may apply for an extension if you have adhered to the terms of your H-1B status and still require the visa for employment.

2. Submit Form I-129
The subsequent step involves submitting Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. Your employer must file this form with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. It is essential to ensure that the form is accurately completed and that all necessary supporting documents are included.

3. Pay Necessary Fees
There are various fees associated with the H-1B visa extension, including the base filing fee, ACWIA fee, Fraud Prevention and Detection fee, and Public Law 114-113 fee. Typically, your employer is responsible for these costs.

4. Address Requests for Evidence (RFE)
Should USCIS require further information or documentation, they will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). It is crucial to respond to any RFEs promptly to prevent delays in the processing of your extension.

5. Await the Decision
After USCIS receives your application, they will issue a receipt notice. You can monitor the status of your application online using the receipt number. Processing times may vary, but a decision is generally expected within several months.

Srinivasa Reddy Kandi is an Immigration policies researcher and immigration laws analyst.
Kandi Srinivasa Reddy, Srinivasa Reddy Kandi, #KandiSrinivasaReddy, #SrinivasaReddyKandi
Disclaimer: The information presented here is general in nature and might not be applicable in any given situation. It should not be interpreted as legal advice or taken for granted that it is always current.