Another FY for H1B Visa is on its way. There is so many buzz going around H1B Quota 2009, due to current economy in U.S. From various articles I read, looks like H1B Quota for 2009 will be meet within the first few days of April 2009 when USCIS accepts the H1B Visa applications for 2009 ( FY 2010). Last year, USCIS released some rules just before H1B visa filing date. But, will H1B Quota for 2009 increase, is the biggest question going into 2009.
H1B Quota 2009
Congress can increase the H1B Quota at anytime, but till then current H1b Visa quota will remain the same
- General Quota – 65,000
- Advanced Degree Quota – 20,000
- Chile and Singapore – 6,800 ( from 65,000)
6,800 H1B Quota applies to Citizens from Chile and Singapore. If enough number of H1B Visa application were not received from Chile and Singapore, then unused H1B Visa from that quota will be used for regular h1b visa quota.
Advanced Degree Quota ( Masters Degree Quota H1B)
Students graduating with Masters degree and Doctorate degree in U.S. Universities can apply under Advanced degree H1B Visa cap. If the visa is not selected in random lottery selection process under Advanced degree quota, then those H!B Applications will be considered in general h1b visa cap.
OPT to H1B Cap Gap – Status
In April 2008, USCIS announced a new rule that will allow students to work during the gap between OPT and H1B start date. If student have filed H1B Visa and until student hears from USCIS about H1B approval or denial notice, student can continue to work for the employer.
Considering all the facts and news among Immigration lawyers, looks like H1B Quota for 2009 will have similar situation as H1B Quota for 2008. But, anything could happen. I will post any updates I come across about H1B Quota 2009, H1B Cap rules, announcements from USCIS here in the blog.
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I am an international student who is doing a master degree at one of the university in Connecticut. I have a dependent with me being a F-1 Student status. I would like to know what will happen to my spouse or dependent when I graduate from the university. I mean the dependent status when I apply for “OPT” after graduation. Does the dependent have to return back home and I stay behind to work on OPT.
Please advise
Sarala Gurung
tel. 203-848-0579(cell)
email:saralag@bridgeport.edu
I have completed my master degree from US university in 2006. From then I’m in India. Am I eligible to to apply for Advanced Degree H1B visa Quota (2009-2010)? & Can I send all my details to consultant by March 15th? There is sufficient time right?
Thanks
Joseph did you get an answer to your question ? I am also in the same boat. Pls. let me know if you do know.
I am also in the same boat. Completed MS in 2006 and I am in India since then.
I also have the same query. Completed MS in 2006 and I am in India since then.
Given the high unemployment, i don’t see Congress approving an increase in H1B quotas for 2009, which is sad for itnernational students