US Economy is in recession and new H-1B Visa rules makes TARP companies from hiring H1B workers impossible. But, new H1B Visa season is approaching fast. USCIS will start accepting new H1 Visa petitions from April 1 2009. 2 weeks back 11 were arrested for a major H1B visa Fraud. So much is happening around and there was a discussion about, if H1B Cap 2009 will be increased? [H1B Visa 2011 - what to Expect?]
Are you Joking?
2 Weeks back President Obama signed a new law that will make companies receiving stimulus bill hard to hire H1B Workers. CNN reported 677,000 filed for unemployment benefits. So, there is no way H1B Cap for 2009 will be increased. But, the question should be – Will there be lottery this year?
If you happen to talk to any employer who was applying for H1 applications last year but are not willing to apply this year. There are many reasons for that and economy is main reason behind that [You can read H1B 2009 FAQ's]
H1B Cap 2009
So, number of visas available for this year is same as last year. In general quota 65,000 visas are available and 20,000 for advanced degree holders ( masters degree or above). Some are predicting this year cap will not be met. Many small consulting firms who filed H1B last year will not be willing to take risk this year. Also, there are few who argue about lottery this year too.
But, its too early to predict if there will be enough applications to meet the h1b cap? Also with new OPT 90 Days Unemployment rule, some students are forced to enroll in another degree. So, if you are in the job market looking to apply for H1b visa to US, you better talk to a very good company who has experience immigration attorney to consult. If you apply on the first day of April, there is very good chance to come under the H1b Cap 2009.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I had been applied for H1b last year but it got rejected in the random selection.
Can i apply for this year H1b and if so, what is the current status of the h1b filings as on date….
Please help me on this….
Ok …I tried to find this for a week ….but couldnt get it anywhere …..My Q is :
What is the percentage of companies who have recieved TARP and bailout money.The last time I checked, there were already 362 companies in that list and I guess it must have reached at 400 by now….
Since my target is to hunt for companies who havent recieved any assistance, I would really appreciate if some one has reliable statistics.That way we can know how many opportunities are lying before us…..
One question. Might not be related directly to this article. What happens if an employee of IL state is out of luck in h1b lottery (if happens). I guess the OPT extension rule is not still applied in the state of IL. Am i right?
Thanks
ppradhan