A “Letter to USCIS for H1B Visa Extension” is a formal request. It asks the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend an H1B visa. You might need this letter if your current H1B visa is about to expire. Also, you need it if you wish to continue working in the US.
Writing to USCIS can feel daunting. Many worry about getting the format and content right. That’s where we come in!
In this article, you will find templates and examples. These samples will make writing your letter easier. Use our resources to craft a strong and effective request.
Letter To Uscis For H1B Visa Extension
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Request for H1B Visa Extension – [Your Name] – Receipt Number: [Your Receipt Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an extension of my H1B visa. My current H1B visa is valid until [Current Visa Expiration Date]. My receipt number is [Your Receipt Number].
I am currently employed by [Employer’s Name] as a [Your Job Title]. I have been working for this company since [Start Date]. My responsibilities include [briefly list job duties].
[Employer’s Name] intends to continue employing me in the same capacity. We are submitting this extension request well in advance of my current visa’s expiration date to allow ample processing time.
Attached to this letter, you will find the necessary supporting documents, including:
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
- Copy of my current H1B approval notice
- Copy of my I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Employment verification letter from [Employer’s Name]
- Copies of my passport and visa
I respectfully request that you approve my H1B visa extension. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Letter To USCIS For H1B Visa Extension
Subject Line: Conciseness is Key
The subject line is your initial handshake with USCIS. Make it count!
- Clearly state the purpose: “H1B Visa Extension Request – [Your Full Name] – Receipt Number [Your Receipt Number]”
- Avoid ambiguity. A straightforward approach curtails potential delays.
Salutation: Address with Decorum
Begin with a formal salutation. This demonstrates respect for the adjudicating officer.
- “To Whom It May Concern,” is acceptable if you don’t have a specific name.
- If you know the officer’s name, employ it: “Dear Officer [Officer’s Last Name],”
Introduction: Laying the Groundwork
The introduction sets the stage. Concisely state your current status and your intention.
- Identify yourself: “My name is [Your Full Name], and I am currently working in the U.S. under H1B visa status.”
- State your petition details: “My H1B petition is filed under receipt number [Your Receipt Number], and it is currently valid until [Expiration Date].”
- Clearly articulate your request: “I am writing to formally request an extension of my H1B visa.”
Body Paragraph 1: Substantiating Your Need
This section elucidates the reasons for needing an extension. Focus on your continued role and its importance.
- Detail your current role and responsibilities. Highlight any advancements or increased responsibilities.
- Emphasize the ongoing need for your specialized skills within the company. Quantifiable achievements are persuasive.
- Mention any ongoing projects or critical tasks you are currently spearheading.
Body Paragraph 2: Employer Attestation
This is where you subtly prompt the employer to provide their corroboration. Your letter is a supplement, not a replacement, for their documentation.
- State that your employer, [Employer’s Name], is concurrently filing the necessary paperwork to support your extension request.
- Indicate that their petition will furnish comprehensive details regarding the company’s sustained need for your services.
Supporting Documents: Reinforcing Your Claim
List the documents you have included to bolster your request. Transparency is paramount.
- Copy of your I-94 form.
- Copy of your current H1B approval notice.
- Copies of your recent pay stubs.
- A letter of support from your employer (mentioning that they are filing a concurrent petition).
- Any other pertinent documentation that reinforces your continued eligibility.
Closing: A Formal Farewell
End with a courteous closing, expressing gratitude and providing contact information.
- Thank the officer for their time and consideration: “Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and attention to this matter.”
- Reiterate your contact information: “Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].”
- Use a formal closing: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”
- Sign your name and type your full name below your signature.
Frequently Asked Questions: H1B Visa Extension Letter to USCIS
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the letter required for an H1B visa extension petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It provides concise answers to assist in preparing a comprehensive application.
What information should the H1B extension letter include?
The letter should detail the employee’s job title, a comprehensive description of their duties, the offered salary, the dates of employment, and the business necessity for the extension. It should also confirm that the terms and conditions of employment remain consistent with the approved Labor Condition Application (LCA).
Who should write the H1B extension letter?
The letter is typically prepared by the employer or a representative authorized to act on behalf of the employer, such as an attorney or HR professional. The author should have sufficient knowledge of the employee’s role and the company’s need for their continued employment.
Is a specific format required for the H1B extension letter?
While USCIS does not mandate a specific format, the letter should be clear, concise, and well-organized. It must be printed on company letterhead and include the date, the USCIS address, and the authorized representative’s contact information.
What if there have been changes to the employee’s job duties since the initial H1B approval?
Any significant changes to the job duties must be clearly outlined in the letter. It’s crucial to demonstrate that the new duties still fall within the scope of the approved LCA and qualify for the H1B visa classification. A new LCA may be required depending on the extent of the changes.
Should I include supporting documents with the H1B extension letter?
Yes, supporting documents are essential. Include copies of the employee’s current H1B approval notice, I-94 record, passport, visa stamp, and the approved LCA. Any documentation that supports the need for the extension, such as performance reviews or project plans, should also be included.
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