Suspending premium processing of H1b extension. What was USCIS smoking?

[sindia]

USCIS suspends premium processing of H1-B extension applications effective May 26th 2015 until July 27th 2015.

The suspension comes at a very very bad time for me. My CA license expires on Nov 10^th 2015.

The USCIS rule does not let me file H1B extension until 6 months before expiration - effectively May 10th 2015.

Me, and my attorneys were planning to file for extension in premium around June 10th. 

With the regular H1B process which takes approx 6 months, I am least certain that the H1B approval hard-copy will be with me on Nov 10th 2015 to go to the DMV.

What should I do in this regard? 

 

(a) Is there an option to apply for H1b in regular and upgrade to premium on July 27th?

(b) Should I wait till July 27th and apply in premium.
© What if USCIS chooses to extend the suspension from July 27th 2015 to another 2 months..etc..



 

[satya2k1]

In my opinion both of your options are viable.  You can apply now in regular and send premium application once they start accepting premium applications.. or you can wait till July 27th.

[livliv]

Both options are right. In any case, it does not take 6 months. 2 to 3 months is normal. Also, many states renew DL's based on pending petitions albeit for a short duration, check with your DMV.

[obscurenessmoon]

I am not sure what USCIS was smoking but I want some. I am sorry for your individual situation here but the H4 EAD brings relieve to so many families that I am ready to ignore your issue as minor inconvenience. 

USCIS did a resource reshuffle to account for new H4 EAD applications. It did not suspend the H1B extension just the premium processing.

 

In any case, my recommendation is to submit your h1b extension in regular processing now. You have a high chance to get your H1b in time . (TSC processing time is showing 3 months for all employment authorization categories). You can always switch to premium.