1. The Pause is Over: US government Shutdown Ends H-1B Freeze
For the past month, H-1B and other employment-based visa applications were on hold due to a government shutdown in the US. Now, the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) has resumed processing, bringing relief to thousands of applicants.
2. Who’s Affected: Temporary and Permanent Programs
The resumption covers both:
· Temporary employment programs like H-1B, H-2B, and H-1B1.
· Permanent employment-based labor certification programs, used for green card applications.
3. Backlog Alert: Expect Minor Delays
Even though processing has restarted, there’s likely to be a temporary backlog as pending applications are cleared. Applicants should expect slightly longer wait times than usual.
4. What Employers Should Do Now
Companies sponsoring foreign workers should:
· Check case statuses online via the DOL and USCIS portals.
· Communicate with employees about potential timeline adjustments.
· Prepare for priority processing requests if eligible.
5. indian Professionals: Key Takeaways
Indian IT professionals and other H-1B applicants:
· Your paused applications are now moving forward.
· If you missed deadlines due to the shutdown, check with your employer or attorney for updates.
· Plan ahead for upcoming filing windows or new petitions.
6. Stay Updated: Monitor Official Portals
To avoid surprises:
· Regularly check US Department of Labor updates.
· Track your petition through the USCIS Case Status portal.
7. Pro Tip: Patience is Key
Even though processing has resumed, clearing the backlog might take weeks to months. Stay proactive but patient, and ensure all documentation is in order for smooth processing.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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