As you are likely aware, the ability to again file 'new' H-1B transfer petitions is approaching. The earliest date that the USCIS will accept petitions toward the Fiscal Year 2008 Cap (for start dates on or after October 1, 2007) is April 1, 2007.

NOW is the time to be planning these filings. This means:

• Refreshing the lines of communication between employers and prospective H-1B beneficiaries;
• Making certain that our office has received up-to-date company information including current number of employees and gross and net income figures for 2006 once available. It is particularly important that we are likewise advised if the company has undergone any recent changes in structure or name;Refreshing the lines of communication between employers and prospective H-1B beneficiaries;
• Making sure that beneficiaries have provided us with all of the documentation requested on our H-1B checklist; and
• Making sure that Latour & Lleras, P.A. has received payment in full for the filing

The sooner that we receive all of the information that we need for these petitions and the related fees/costs, the sooner we can prepare the petitions. There will undoubtedly be a rush in March which we will work through as always, however the process is easier on all involved when parties do not wait until the last minute.

IMPORTANTLY, you may recall that the H-1B cap was reached last year on May 26th. This year we anticipate that the cap will be reached much sooner because there is a significantly increased demand due to the number of prospective cases that did not make the cap last year. While there is no predicting just how quickly the spaces will be consumed, it is possible that the cap could be reached as early as MID-APRIL

We want to encourage our you to please help us to help you be among the limited number of H-1B employers and beneficiaries who will be able to look back with contentment after the coming year's cap has been reached and hold in your hand an approval among the fortunate 65,000.