Are you wondering if you can speed up your USCIS processing time? This article provides a thorough FAQ guide to help you determine when and how to request Premium Processing, ensuring you make the most of this expedited service. We always recommend working with experienced immigration attorneys, like Donald Gross Law Group in Washington DC, to guide you through the process.
1. What is Premium Processing?
- Premium Processing is an optional service that accelerates the review process for certain Petitions.
2. What is the timeframe for premium processing?
- 5 business days for most I-129 and I-140 classifications.
- 30 business days for certain I-539 (change of status to F, M, or J categories) and I-765.
- 45 business days for I-140 under E13 Multinational Executive/Manager or E21 National Interest Waiver (NIW) classifications.
3. Who Can Use Premium Processing?
- Form I-129 including H-1B, L-1A/B, O-1, among others.
- Form I-140 for Alien Worker covering categories such as EB-1 (Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors/Researchers), EB-2 (Advanced Degrees), and NIW classifications.
- Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization such as F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extensions.
- Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status for applicants changing to F-1, F-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status.
4. How to Request Premium Processing
- Submit Form I-907 (Request for Premium Processing Service). This can be filed concurrently with the main petition or separately after the initial filing including the receipt notice. For F-1 OPT and STEM OPT, you can do it online.
- Pay the Premium Processing Fee from $1,685 to $2,805, depending on the category. Always check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website.
5. Why Choose Premium Processing?
- Time-Sensitive Employment Needs
- Urgent Travel Plans
- No Impact on Case Outcome
6. Does Premium Processing guarantee approval?
- No. Cases will still be subject to regular review, and USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), a denial, or an approval based on the merits of your submission. If your petition is denied, the Premium Processing fee will not be refunded.
7. Can Premium Processing be requested for dependents like H-4 or L-2 applicants?
- No, Premium Processing is not directly available for dependents filing Form I-539. However, if the dependent’s application is filed together with the principal applicant’s Form, USCIS will typically process them concurrently.
8. What happens if USCIS misses the processing deadline?
- If USCIS does not take action within the specified time, they will refund you. However, the petition will still receive expedited processing.
9. What if I need to contact USCIS about my Premium Processing case?
- Call 866-315-5718 (specific to Premium Processing inquiries).
- Use the secure messaging feature in your USCIS online account if the form was filed electronically.
- Consider consulting with an immigration attorney for professional guidance and assistance with your Premium Processing case.
10. Does Premium Processing apply to petitions filed overseas?
- No. Premium Processing is only available for applications filed within the United States with USCIS.
For expert support with your Premium Processing case, reach out to Donald Gross Law Group.
Our experienced team can guide you through the process, ensure accurate form completion, and address any questions you have, helping you make the most of this expedited service.