The H1B premium processing cost is a significant aspect of the H1B visa application process, particularly for employers and applicants seeking expedited processing of their petitions. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. As of the latest updates, the premium processing cost for H1B visas has seen adjustments, reflecting the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) efforts to manage the demand for this service.
Understanding H1B Premium Processing
Premium processing is an optional service offered by USCIS that provides expedited processing of certain employment-based petitions, including H1B visas, for an additional fee. This service guarantees that the petition will be processed within 15 calendar days, significantly reducing the wait time compared to regular processing. The premium processing service is particularly beneficial for time-sensitive cases where the applicant needs to start work quickly or when the employer needs to plan for the arrival of the foreign worker.
Current H1B Premium Processing Cost
As of the last update, the H1B premium processing cost is 2,500. This fee is in addition to the base filing fee for the H1B petition, which currently stands at 460 for the I-129 form, and other applicable fees such as the 500 fraud detection and prevention fee and the 750-$1,500 ACWIA fee, depending on the employer’s size. It’s crucial for applicants and employers to check the official USCIS website for the most current fees, as these can change over time.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| H1B Base Filing Fee (I-129) | $460 |
| Premium Processing Fee | $2,500 |
| Fraud Detection and Prevention Fee | $500 |
| ACWIA Fee (for employers with 1-25 full-time employees) | $750 |
| ACWIA Fee (for employers with 26 or more full-time employees) | $1,500 |
Benefits of H1B Premium Processing
The primary benefit of premium processing is the significant reduction in processing time. For petitions that are time-sensitive, this can be invaluable. Additionally, premium processing provides a faster response in case of a Request for Evidence (RFE), allowing for quicker resolution of issues that might delay the approval of the petition.
How to Apply for H1B Premium Processing
To apply for premium processing, the petitioner must submit Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, along with the required fee. This form can be filed concurrently with the H1B petition or as a request to upgrade a pending petition to premium processing. The petitioner should carefully follow the instructions on the USCIS website and ensure all required documents and fees are included to avoid rejection or delays.
In conclusion, the H1B premium processing cost, while an additional expense, offers a valuable service for those needing expedited processing of their H1B visa petitions. Understanding the costs and benefits of premium processing is crucial for employers and applicants navigating the complex process of obtaining an H1B visa.
What is the current cost of H1B premium processing?
+The current cost of H1B premium processing is $2,500, in addition to other applicable fees such as the base filing fee for the H1B petition, fraud detection and prevention fee, and ACWIA fee.
How long does H1B premium processing take?
+H1B premium processing guarantees that the petition will be processed within 15 calendar days.
Does premium processing guarantee approval of the H1B petition?
+No, premium processing only expedites the review of the petition by USCIS. The applicant must still meet all the eligibility requirements for the H1B visa to be approved.
