Although it hasn’t had the same meaning during the last few years, the H-1B Visa application season begins April 1st. That date marks the first date on which employers can petition for workers to begin working during fiscal year 2012. Thus, those that apply on April 1st can begin working on October 1, 2011 – the first day of fiscal year 2012.
Until recently, this date was very important for H-1B visa applicants. The United States has an annual quota of 65,000 H-1B visas that are available each year. Up until a few years ago, this quota was reached within a few days of the April 1st start date. However, due to the economic downturn, in recent years the quota level has not been reached until January or February.
If you are an H-1B employer or a prospective H-1B employee, please contact Gafner Law Firm to better understand your immigration options.