Whether you’re a big hospital or small farming company, businesses are continuously seeking ways to streamline processes and increase efficiency. This is especially true of employers who employ workers on employment-based visas, such as the H-1B. Well, there is good news: the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now offers an online filing system for H-1B petitions, providing a more streamlined and efficient way for employers to sponsor foreign talent.
So, why should employers consider filing H-1B petitions online?
1. Efficiency and Convenience
Filing H-1B petitions online with USCIS significantly reduces paper consumption and simplifies the entire submission process, granting employers the opportunity to file petitions promptly and to avoid undue delays from mailing issues or processing backlogs. This process includes internal validation checks that ensure required fields are completed accurately before submission.
The biggest convenience: saving time. With no waiting period for physical forms to arrive at USCIS, filings are within the hands of USCIS adjudicators immediately once submitted. By enabling employers to track and manage multiple petitions through the centralized USCIS portal, employers can better manage timelines and ensure that H-1B workers are onboarded without unnecessary delays.
2. Reduced Risk of Lost or Delayed Petitions
By mailing physical documents employers inherently risk delayed delivery to USCIS, or even worse, losing the filing all together. This can be detrimental to the success of time-sensitive matters such as H-1B petitions. By submitting petitions electronically, employers eliminate these risks. The online system confirms receipt immediately upon submission, reducing the unpredictability associated with physical mail delivery.
3. Cost Savings
Filing online can result in significant cost savings for employers. By no longer needing to print, package, and mail physical documents, employers can quickly make payments via the online filing system and will no longer need to worry about sending physical checks in the mail. USCIS allows for secure and fast payment options, reducing the time and complexity involved in processing filing fees.
4. Digital Record Keeping and Increased Office Space
By filing online employers have access to organized digital records of all H-1B petitions and related documentation, eliminating the need to store bulky paper files and making it easier to retrieve information when needed.
5. Environmental Sustainability
By transitioning to the online filing process, employers contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing paper use. It’s no secret that visa applications typically involve significant amounts of paperwork, including multiple copies of documents, forms, and supplementary materials. By filing online, employers can drastically reduce their carbon footprint, implement eco-friendly business practices, and support broader sustainability goals in the communities they serve.
As more employers shift to online filings, the advantages of this system will likely grow, enabling employers to continue to attract and retain the international talent that the workforce demands.
Employers interested in switching to the online USCIS filing system should:
Collaborate with attorneys to set up USCIS accounts and line up online payment capacity; and
Consider making online filing for H-1B personnel a part of their business strategy.
Training:
If you are an Employer looking to learn more about available visa options and lawful permanent residency process, you might consider taking an online training through Corporate Immigration Compliance Institute. Trainings can be found here: https://www.usimmigrationcompliance.com/get-certified
