Online Inquiries for Employers Sponsoring Employees With I-129
Author: New York Employment Immigration Lawyer Alena Shautsova
As of April 21, 2016, USCIS has made it possible to submit inquiries regarding I-129 petitions in an effort to modernize its processing. Specifically, the new rule is applicable to those petitions that are requesting an extension of stay or change of employer.
The inquiries are only allowed to be made by petitions pending of 210 days or more as currently this is the “standard” processing time for I-129 extensions or change of employer. To give an example, if previously when you would like an update on your case, you would have to wait 30 minutes on the phone during normal business hours 9:00 AM – 5:00PM, and then an additional 30 minutes to speak with a representative before you give them the required information and convey to them what your question is. Now, you may submit your inquires online.
The benefits while seemingly small can be huge if you are an employer with multiple petitions, saving at least 1 hour of time per pending case.
With the heavy influx of recent petitions this online inquiry system is said to cut the processing times significantly. It is easier and faster to send out an email then to address someone via the telephone to explain the case status. With officers spending less time on the phones and more time reviewing the actual cases the results should not only be faster processing times but less increases in application fees over time ( we can only hope).
Other processes that have been “revamped” or added to the list, include the ability to correct typographical errors and even request accommodations for interviews.
While we believe the eligible for online inquires categories will expand over time, many inquires still have to be made over the phone or in writing. In addition, it is impossible to submit any inquires for a pending administratively asylum case.