PP

Premium Processing (PP) is an optional service offered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows petitioners and applicants to expedite the processing of certain employment-based immigration forms. By paying an additional fee, individuals and employers can receive a decision on their petition within 15 calendar days, significantly reducing the waiting time compared to the standard processing period.

Which Forms Are Eligible for Premium Processing?

Premium Processing is available for select employment-based petitions and applications, including:

• Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This form is used for work visas such as H-1B, L-1, O-1, and others.

• Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This form is used for employment-based immigrant visas, including EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories.

How Premium Processing Works

1. Filing Form I-907: To request Premium Processing, the petitioner must file Form I-907 (Request for Premium Processing Service) along with the main application (e.g., Form I-129 or I-140) or after the main petition has already been submitted.

2. Fee: The current fee for Premium Processing is $2,500, which is paid in addition to the standard application fees. The fee is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the USCIS website for the latest information.

3. 15-Day Processing Time: USCIS guarantees that it will take action on the application within 15 calendar days. If USCIS fails to meet this deadline, they will refund the Premium Processing fee and continue processing the request on an expedited basis.

Benefits of Premium Processing

• Faster Decisions: Premium Processing drastically shortens the processing time, which is beneficial for individuals or employers who need a quick resolution.

• Better Planning: Having a faster decision allows for more effective planning, whether it’s arranging travel, starting a new job, or other time-sensitive needs.

• Dedicated Communication: Premium Processing provides access to a dedicated phone line and email address to check the status of the petition or application.

Important Considerations

• No Guarantee of Approval: Premium Processing expedites the processing time but does not guarantee that the petition will be approved. USCIS will still thoroughly review the application.

• Not Available for All Forms: Not all petitions or applications are eligible for Premium Processing, so it's crucial to verify eligibility before applying.

Conclusion

Premium Processing is a valuable option for those who need expedited decisions on certain employment-based immigration petitions. By filing Form I-907 and paying the additional fee, applicants can significantly reduce waiting times, making the process more predictable and manageable.

At DIY My Green Card, we can help you navigate the Premium Processing request process to ensure you receive a quick decision on your immigration application.