Frequently Asked Questions

Luo & Associates Law Group, P.C. was founded in 2018, and I have more than 10 years of experience handling employment-based visa cases. Here, I share insights regarding our clients’ most common questions. For a detailed review of your case, contact us for a FREE initial consultation.

What types of visa applications do you handle?

My practice in Manhattan focuses on employment-based visas—H-1B, L-1, O-1, and EB green cards. Because the H-1B visa is the most widely used work visa for skilled immigrants, it is our most requested service.

What are the H-1B visa requirements?

A U.S. employer’s job offer is step one. This job must be a specialty occupation that requires at least a bachelor’s degree, and you must hold a degree in the appropriate field. Your employer must agree to pay at least the prevailing wage for the position and demonstrate that the work requires specialized knowledge.

Who applies for the H-1B visa? Is it the employer or the worker?

This is an employer-sponsored visa, meaning the employer files the petition. However, there are some circumstances under which a self-employed individual may qualify for an H-1B visa.

How are H-1B visas granted?

As there are so many potential applicants every year, the process starts with an annual lottery. Once you are selected to proceed, you have to file an H-1B petition from April 1 till the end of June 30. After USCIS receives the petition, they will adjudicate the case within 5-8 months. The process can be expedited with premium processing: for most classifications, USCIS takes action within 15 business days of accepting a premium processing request, for an additional fee (see the USCIS fee schedule).

Can a visa application be processed more quickly?

Yes, there is an optional premium processing fee that expedites the process. This cuts the decision time down to under 15 calendar days.

How long is an H-1B valid?

The H-1B visa is intended for temporary work, not a permanent stay in the U.S. Initially, this visa is valid for three years, and it may be extendable for another three years. Our immigration professionals can advise you regarding certain circumstances that may qualify for additional extensions.

Can I manage the visa application process on my own?

Although individuals and businesses can manage visa applications on their own, it is not recommended. The procedures and documentation requirements are complex, and errors can result in rejection. A skilled immigration attorney from Luo & Associates guides you through every step of the process.

Why should I use legal services to manage a visa application?

Simply put, there is too much at stake and too many opportunities for errors and missteps in managing the visa application process. Even the smallest mistake can cause delays or rejection. That means pushed back start dates or, worse, the loss of a valuable opportunity for both the worker and the employer.

With the comprehensive support of Luo & Associates, your visa application will be expertly prepared and submitted. We minimize the risk of rejection. If Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or other concerns arise, we respond promptly so the matter is resolved quickly. Your success is more likely when you put your trust in a team that has successfully obtained thousands of visa approvals.

Legal Expertise

I personally review every case, supported by our paralegal team. I have handled more than 3,000 H-1B cases with a 99% approval rate.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

A Comprehensive Approach

We analyze each situation individually to build a well-documented case. From preparing your H-1B lottery submission to promptly responding to USCIS requests and inquiries, Luo & Associates is with you every step of the way.

Contact Us Today

To review your case and begin your successful visa application process, reach out today to Luo & Associates.