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Securing an H-1B approval is a huge milestone, but an employer’s responsibilities do not end here. Once the H-1B petition is approved, employers must assist the H-1B beneficiaries with visa stamping, submission of Form I-9, onboarding, and other important tasks. All these steps must be completed promptly as failure to do so may result in noncompliance.
This blog outlines the key steps employers must follow to ensure compliance with USCIS guidelines once their H-1B petition is approved.
Important Steps to Follow After H-1B Visa Approval
STEP 1: Review the H-1B Approval Notice (Form I-797)
STEP 2: Notify the H-1B Beneficiary
STEP 3: Determine the H-1B Beneficiary’s Current Location
STEP 4: Help the H-1B Beneficiary with H-1B Visa Stamping (if required)
If the H-1B worker is outside the U.S., the employer must help them with the entire visa stamping process. They can:
Note: The visa appointment can be scheduled up to 90 days before the petition start date
STEP 5: Prepare for the H-1B Beneficiary’s Arrival in the U.S. (if required)
STEP 6: Verify Employee’s Form I-94 Upon Arrival
STEP 7: Verify Work Authorization & Complete Form I-9
STEP 8: Ensure Compliance with LCA Terms
STEP 9: Set Up Payroll, Benefits, & Employee Onboarding
STEP 10: Maintain Compliance & Track Visa Expiry
Common Challenges & Tips to Avoid Them
To stay compliant with the USCIS guidelines, employers must know the common challenges after H-1B approval and key tips to avoid them.
Some common challenges H-1B employers may face include:
Challenge: Employers often struggle with managing H-1B documentation, which can put them in a tough spot during USCIS audits and lead to compliance issues.
Solution: Employers must maintain all important H-1B documents in an organized manner and make sure they are easily accessible.
Challenge: Employees outside the U.S. may face delays in scheduling visa interviews at U.S. consulates or embassies.
Solution: To avoid delays, employers should encourage employees to book a visa appointment as early as possible.
Challenge: Inaccurate or incorrect filling of Form I-9 can lead to noncompliance, resulting in serious fines and work authorization issues.
Solution: Ensure all details are filled correctly and review the entire form twice before submission.
Challenge: If the offered wage does not match the wage conditions mentioned in the LCA, it causes noncompliance, leading to serious legal and financial consequences.
Solution: Ensure wage consistency by cross-checking payroll records with LCA requirements and adjusting if required.
Challenge: If the employee chooses to work from a different work location or remotely, the employer may have to file a new LCA and a petition amendment.
Solution: Employers must consult an experienced immigration attorney before approving remote work or relocation.
Challenge: H-1B status is valid for a maximum of 6 years, and if the employee wishes to stay longer, they will need an employment-based green card or another visa status.
Solution: To avoid work authorization gaps, the employer should start the green card process early and, if an extension is required, file before the current H-1B expiration.
Challenge: Terminating an H-1B employee requires strict compliance with immigration laws. Employers must notify USCIS, provide return transportation for employees outside the U.S., and document the entire process.
Solution: Follow a transparent termination policy. Notify the employee in advance so they can seek other visa options or transfer their H-1B to a new employer within the 60-day grace period.
Summing Up
After the H-1B approval, employers must follow certain mandatory steps to maintain compliance with the USCIS guidelines and help the new hire settle in. They must provide the H-1B beneficiary with a copy of Form I-797 notice and assist them with visa stamping. Once the employee arrives in the U.S, the employer must properly file the Form I-9 to ensure compliance with the USCIS guidelines.
The H-1B post-approval process can be a bit complex and H-1B employers often struggle with issues such as visa stamping delays, lack of proper documentation, inaccurate submission of Form I-9, and H-1B extension and green card sponsorship. However, with a well-structured approach, these challenges can be effectively managed.
OnBlick ensures a smooth H-1B approval process, helping you seamlessly manage LCAs, Forms I-9, and PAF.
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