O-1B Approval: Timeline
Hi all,
For the past few months I’ve been a regularly checking this sub for updates and timelines so I thought I would share mine if it helps someone.
Field: architecture and graphic design
Sent with Premium Processing
June 26th: package sent to USCIS via FedEx
June 29th: USCIS receipt notice (Vermont Service Center)
July 21st: RFE was issued (last day of the PP window)
September 11th: RFE response sent via FedEx
September 15th: RFE package delivered to USCIS
September 21st: “RFE response received” notification on portal
October 3rd: Portal status changed to “USCIS is Processing the Case”
October 5th: Case approved!
RFE Content:
First feeling after reading the RFE was bad and it sounded scary. But reading it again made me realize it is not that bad and getting an RFE is good because now you know exactly what they are looking for. Below is a summary of what was met/asked in regards to the criteria:
Lead or Starring Participant in Distinguished Productions or Events: they accepted that I was associated with productions or events that had distinguished reputation but they could not determine critical role. They specifically mentioned that they don’t consider testimonial letters as evidence for this criterion.
Lead, Starring, or Critical Role for Distinguished Organizations and Establishments: they acknowledged that I met the past component of the criterion; wanted more documentation on future.
Significant Recognition: met this requirement.
National or International Recognition: we submitted articles about me in smaller/lesser know design and architecture publications and articles about projects I worked on in larger publications (New York Times, Architect’s Newspaper etc.). RFE read like they did not regard the larger publications as much because they did not mention my name, and the could not determine if the other sources are ‘major publications’.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Happy to help and good luck to you all!