The H-1B visa program is popular with highly skilled foreign workers and the U.S. employers who rely on them, but availability is limited. Because USCIS will begin accepting applications on April 3^rd, 2017, the H-1B lawyers at Berd & Klauss, PLLC in New York City recommend beginning the process as soon as possible to increase your chances.

Congress limits the number of H-1B applications that will be accepted every year. Currently, that figure is capped at 85,000, including 20,000 dedicated to those who have earned postgraduate degrees at American educational institutions. When the number of applications received during is capped, USCIS will employ a computer-generated lottery to select petitions for review. While lotteries weren't always necessary in the past, they've become much more commonplace, especially in the last four years. H-1B lawyers familiar with the process expect the number of applications to reach the cap in the first week, so it's crucial to have your documentation in order as soon as applications open.

Bear in mind that simply having your application selected in the lottery does not guarantee they will be approved. In fact, many who are selected are subsequently denied due to errors or incompleteness. The window for application is very short, precluding the possibility of re-applying until the next fiscal year, so Berd & Klauss, PLLC urge employers and visa applicants alike to consult a skilled immigration attorney familiar with the process. While they can't guarantee that any particular application will be selected, they can ensure that you are fully prepared, with all documentation submitted correctly as soon as the window opens.

The highly skilled H-1B lawyers at Berd & Klauss, PLLC have a thorough knowledge of the immigration process, which they've used to assist clients from around the world. Visit their website to learn more, follow them on ], or call (212) 461-7152 to schedule a consultation today.