H-1B Employment at the University of Minnesota

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H-1B: The Basics

Description of H-1B Status

Qualifying Criteria for H-1B

Comparing Work Visas

H-1B Status Documents

H-1B Annual Cap

H-1B Application Process

ISSS Procedures/Fee

Contract/Appt. Language

US Gov. Processes/Fees

H-1B Processing Times

Obtain/Extend H Status

Payroll Documents

Identification Documents

Extension

Transfer

Change of Status

Persons Outside U.S.

Changes in UMN H-1B Job

H–4 Dependent

H Regulations & Policies

Travel

Travel to Canada & Mexico

Extensions Beyond 6 Years

Part-Time Employment

Consultation Policy

Taking Classes in H-1B

Change of Address Rules

H-1B Grace Period

Departure from UMN

Resources for H-1Bs

Employment-based Visas:
Comparison Chart

Int. Scholar Handbook

Int. Scholar Orientation

Contacting ISSS Staff

Print Version

Obtain or Extend H Status
H Transfers (Portability)

Portability is the official term used by USCIS when an employee already holds H-1B status and “transfers” their H-1B status from one employer to another.

In order for the employee to begin working for a new employer, that employer must file an entirely new H-1B petition. This must be done prior to the expiration of the first H-1B, or prior to the employment being terminated, whichever comes first. In most cases, having one H-1B petition approved will not make it any easier to get a second approval.

Note: According to immigration law which went into effect October 17, 2000, an employee may begin working as soon as the new employer files the H-1B petition with the USCIS. It is not necessary to wait for the petition to be approved. At the University of Minnesota, the normal procedure is to wait for the USCIS to send an application receipt notice to ISSS. Then the employee can fill out the I-9 Form at UMN payroll services using the receipt along with their passport, I-94 card and original H-1B Notice of Approval from the previous employer.