H1-B Cap Exempt question

[b_ramnath]

I have an Indian Passport and my Original H1-B was maxed out and expired in May 2012. However I got my I-140 (With the PERM filed when my H1-B was active) approved. My company told I can file for a fresh H1-B and it falls under Cap-Exempt category since my I-140 is approved. I am in the process of doing the paperwork for my H1-B and I have couple of questions

- What is the typical processing times for H1-B applications that are Cap-exempt?

- I am planning to return back to US in max 3 months time. If it takes longer to get approval, is there an option to expedite it with premium processing (I know H1-B extensions can be premium-filed but not sure for H1-B new Cap exempt cases)

Appreciate any inputs on this.

[Attorney_11]

Processing times for H-1B in the regular stream are 3 to 6 months regardless of whether filed by a cap exempt or cap subject petition. H-1B applications/petitions are eligible for premium processing.