H-1B Approval Notice: Steps, Process, and What Comes Next
The H-1B visa is one of the most competitive non-immigrant visas in the United States. If you have received an approval notice, congratulations—you are one step closer to building your career in the U.S. This guide provides a detailed overview of the H-1B approval notice process, key steps to follow, required documentation, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Understanding the H-1B Approval Notice Process
The H-1B process begins with registration through the USCIS electronic lottery system. Each year, employers register their beneficiaries during the designated two-week filing window, typically held in March.
- Lottery Selection: USCIS selects 65,000 registrants under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 under the H-1B master’s cap.
- Receipt Number: Selected registrants receive a petition receipt number, which allows them to track their case online.
- Approval Notice: Once approved, USCIS sends an official approval notice (Form I-797) to the petitioning employer. The employee then receives it to present at the visa interview for stamping.
For petitions filed within the U.S. requesting a change of status, the approval notice will include an I-94 record, confirming both the change of status and the validity period of the visa.
Visa Stamping Process
Once you receive your approval notice from your employer or from an immigration attorney at Green Card Link, you are ready to schedule your visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy. The visa stamp in your passport is essential for international travel and re-entry into the United States.
Documents Required for H-1B Visa Stamping
- Completed DS-160 Form and barcode confirmation
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Appointment schedule confirmation
- Original H-1B approval notice (I-797)
- I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker and H Classification Supplement
- Employer’s offer letter
- Updated resume
- Supporting documents for the business and position
- Any prior H-1B approval notices
- Academic transcripts, diplomas, and certificates
- Original I-20 forms (if previously on F-1 status)
For Dependents (H-4 Visa Applicants)
- Original I-797 Approval Notice for the principal applicant
- Copy of principal applicant’s valid H-1B visa (if not applying together)
- Marriage certificate and wedding photographs (for spouses)
- Original birth certificate (for children)
- Copy of the principal applicant’s Form I-129
It is highly recommended to review your case with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link to ensure you prepare the correct documentation.
Approved H-1B Visa With Change of Status
If your petition is approved with a change of status and you are living in the United States, you may begin working on or after the H-1B start date listed on your approval notice. Common changes of status include:
- F-1 to H-1B
- L-1 to H-1B
- H-4 to H-1B
For example, if you are moving from F-1 OPT to H-1B, your status automatically changes on the H-1B start date—even if your OPT period remains valid for several more months.
Approved H-1B Petition Without Change of Status
If your H-1B is approved but you are not changing status within the U.S., you must leave the country, get your H-1B stamp at a U.S. consulate, and re-enter the United States up to 10 days before your start date (usually October 1).
For those living outside the U.S., stamping is required before traveling to the United States. An immigration attorney at Green Card Link can help you determine the best timing for your visa interview.
Frequently Asked Questions About H-1B Approval Notices
What is an H-1B Approval Notice?
An H-1B approval notice (Form I-797, Notice of Action) is issued by USCIS after your petition has been approved. It lists details such as your employer, job title, work location, visa validity dates, and authorized stay period. This document proves your legal status and work authorization in the United States.
How Long Does It Take to Receive the H-1B Approval Notice?
- Premium Processing: Typically 15 days, plus mailing time.
- Regular Processing: Varies depending on the USCIS service center and whether USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE).
Can USCIS Email the H-1B Approval Notice?
With Premium Processing, USCIS may send an email update as a courtesy. However, the official notice is always mailed.
How Do I Check My H-1B Approval Notice Status?
You can check your case status online through the USCIS Case Status Tool using your petition receipt number. Still, the physical I-797 approval notice is the official document.
Can I Use My Existing Visa Stamp If I Change Employers?
Yes, if you are not required to travel outside the United States, you may continue using your valid H-1B visa stamp. If you travel abroad after a new petition approval, you will need a new visa stamp before re-entering.
Processing Times by USCIS Service Centers (As of September 2025)
- Change of status within the U.S.: 80% of cases completed in 3.5 months
- Visa issuance abroad (case type A): 80% of cases completed in 8 months
- Visa issuance abroad (case type B): 80% of cases completed in 7.5 months
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have extensive experience guiding clients through the H-1B process—from lottery registration and petition filing to responding to RFEs, scheduling consular interviews, and preparing supporting documents for stamping. With countless approvals secured, Green Card Link is a trusted resource for foreign professionals and employers alike.
If you need tailored guidance for your H-1B approval notice or are preparing for visa stamping, schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link today.