Premium Processing

When Is It Necessary or Recommended?

Premium processing is required or recommended if the required start date for new employment is within 3–6 months of the H-1B request submission.

Note that estimated processing times change. Contact ISSS at [email protected] if the required start date is close to the end of the range.

When Premium Processing Is Not Necessary

Premium processing is generally not necessary for employer purposes when filing a change of employer (porting), an extension, or a change in employment petition:

• Change of Employer (Porting): A new employee who holds H-1B status with another employer can begin employment with the university as soon as the university’s petition is filed and the start date in the petition is reached.
• Change in Employment: If there will be a material change in employment for an H-1B or O-1 employee that requires filing a petition with USCIS, the change can take place when the petition is filed and the start date in the petition is reached. See Extension or Change in Employment for an explanation of material changes.
• Extension: A current employee who holds H-1B or O-1 status and needs an extension may continue working for 240 days beyond the current end date if the extension petition is filed before that date. Premium processing may be necessary if USCIS processing times exceed 240 days.

Premium Processing Fee

Who Pays?

The premium processing fee must be paid by the employer if required for employment purposes (e.g., facilitating a start date or professional travel), but may be paid by either the employer or employee if for personal reasons (e.g., facilitating personal travel, H-4 employment authorization, or peace of mind).