H-1B Quota Numbers: October 2011 – Advanced Degree Quota Filling Up!

The H-1B quota is still open but the H-1B advanced degree quota is nearly full. So for anyone looking to make an application, my advice is to watch the numbers carefully as the end of the year approaches.

  • 41,000 H-1B petitions have been received out of the 65,000 petitions that is subject to the regular Bachelor’s degree quota
  • 19,100 H-1B petitions have been received out of the 20,000 petitions that are exempted for applicants with US master’s or advanced degrees
  • Depending on usage, the H-1B quota is filled at different times each fiscal year, but I’m always amazed when I meet folks who think that the H-1B program is already “capped out,” or that since October 1 has come and passed, H-1B applicants would have to wait until April 1, 2012 since it’s just too late to make an application.

    While it is true that USCIS will begin accepting H-1B applications on April 1st of each year, it is not true that your case must be approved before October 1 of that calendar year. It is also not true that your case must be approved before the quota is finally reached. The business immigration attorneys at Fong & Aquino are still preparing H-1B petitions, so if you have questions or need assistance putting together a petition, please give us a call for a consultation. –ecf

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