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International Student & Scholar Services

Florida Tech International Student and Scholar ServicesFor DepartmentsH-1B Visa ProgramH-1B Workflow

H-1B Workflow

Total Estimated ISSS Processing Time: 
6 to 8 months (subject to change)

Step 1

Information and Evidence Gathering

  • Department and scholar complete forms, gather and prepare supporting documents, letters, etc.
  • Department submits request packet to ISSS

Estimated Time: Please check with your department’s internal processing time.

Step 2

ISSS Review, NPWHC and U.S. Department of Labor Approval Process

  • ISSS reviews request packet; communicates with department about any questions
  • ISSS obtains Prevailing Wage Determination from the National Prevailing Wage and Helpdesk Center (NPWHC)
  • ISSS completes and files Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Employment & Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor
  • Copy of Labor Certification is sent to department; department and HR must post for 10 days; after 10 days, posting is returning to ISSS Office
  • ISSS requests application checks from Accounts Payable
  • ISSS Prepares Public Access File and Union Notification (if applicable)
  • ISSS prepares final H-1B petition; submits to the USCIS

Estimated Time: 4–5 months

Step 3

Submission of Petition to USCIS

  • USCIS reviews and adjudicates petition in approximately 4–5 months (regular processing)
  • If the Florida Tech department elects to pay an additional fee of $1,440 to USCIS for Premium Processing, USCIS will review and adjudicate the application or send a Request for Further Evidence/Information (RFE) within 15 days

Estimated Time: 15 days –5 months

Step 4

Consular Processing Required if Scholar is Outside U.S.

  • Upon approval, ISSS sends required documentation to scholar abroad
  • Scholar schedules visa appointment with U.S. Embassy/Consulate (n/a to Canadian citizens)
  • U.S. Embassy/Consulate reviews application, conducts security background check, issues visa stamp

Estimated Time: 2 weeks–3 months (varies with specific Consular posts and length of time required to clear security. Please check with your particular Consulate)

Step 5

Scholar Arrives at Florida Tech

  • Scholar arrives and immediately checks in with ISSS
  • Scholar completes Form I-9 within first 3 days of employment