How and When to Apply for an H-1B

Once you have decided that the H-1B category is the appropriate one to use when bringing your new employee to UGA it is time to begin completing all the required paperwork. You will see 3 different application packets for H-1B perspective employees:

Please note: International Student, Scholar & Immigration Services (ISSIS) has moved to a fee-for-service model, effective July 1, 2007. Please read the detailed memorandum and the FAQs before downloading the forms below.

Application Packet :

• H-1B Application Packet first time and transferring H holders
  For people who have never held an H-1B or have been out of the U.S. for a consecutive 12 months since last holding H-1B status. Usually this will apply to people currently in the U.S. on another status such as F or J or people you have hired directly from overseas. This application is also for people who currently hold an H-1B at another institution or company and wish to transfer that H-1B status to UGA.


• H-1B ExtensionPacket extend H status of UGA employee
  To extend the H status of UGA workers who already hold an H-1B. Remember that an employee is limited to only 6 years in H-1B status.
  


• H-1B Amendment Packet change job title, change department, decease in salary
  For people needs to amend or update their current H. For example: many post doctoral employees later move into researcher or faculty positions. Even though they already hold an H-1B we must file an amendment because of the change in job title.

See the flow chart to get a sense of the processing time needed for your H-1B application.
OR
The H-1B processing done by USCIS can be expedited by requesting what is known as premium processing. This process, which costs $1000.00, will ensure that USCIS will complete the H-1B application in 15 calendar days.


Additional H-1B Forms:

• Check Request Documentation for H-1B Application
  $320.00 Application Fee
  $500.00 Application Fee
  $1000.00 Premium Processing Fee
  
  Please complete the appropriate letter(s) and attach them to the check request sent to accounts payable.


• H-4 Dependent Packet
  This instruction packet guides you through comleting the I-539 form. This form should be held when adding H-4 dependents after the H-1 has already been approved.


• Credential Evaluations
  Lisano International
  Foreign Credential Eval 
  
  When an H-1B applicatnt has obtained a degree outside of the US, a credential evaluation must be completed for that degree before the H-1B application can be filed. Both companies to the left are recommended by UGA. Please use the appropriate cover letter for the company you choose.


• Travel Checklist
  Read over this travel checklist before leaving the US to ensure all your paperwork is in order.


• H Sponsorship for Temporary Staff Positions
  This form must be completed and mailed to OIE before a H application on a temporary staff employee will be accepted.


• H Sponsorship for Part-Time Positions
  This form must be completed and mailed to OIE before a H application for a part-time position will be accepted.