Typically, the length of stay for a B1/B2 visa is 6 months, but that's not always the case. Understanding how the B1/B2 visa length of stay is calculated becomes crucial if you are applying for a B1/B2 visa. The actual length of stay for a B1/B2 visa is determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry, which I will discuss in detail shortly. Traveling to the US is a dream for many individuals seeking to explore its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences. For short-term visits, the B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas, commonly known as B1/B2 visas, are normally issued by the U.S. government. Related: How to apply for B1/B2 visa These non-immigrant visas allow visitors to enter the country for specific purposes, but many applicants are often confused about the B1/B2 visa length of stay. In this blog, I will dive into the details of the B1/B2 visa length of stay and offer some valuable tips for maximizing your time in the USA. Table of Contents: B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay Extending B1/B2 Visa How Soon Can I Re-enter the USA on a Tourist Visa? How Many Times Can You Enter the US on a B1/B2 Visa? Tips for Making the Most of Your B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay B1/B2 visas are typically issued with a 10-year validity (although sometimes for a shorter period), but it's important to note that this does not grant you the right to stay continuously in the U.S. for 10 years. Instead, once your B1/B2 visa is approved, you have the flexibility to enter the United States at any time during the visa's validity period. The actual B1/B2 visa length of stay you are allowed for each entry may vary. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry is responsible for determining the duration of your stay, which is commonly referred to as the "B1/B2 visa length of stay". A port of entry is typically the first airport where you undergo customs and immigration processes when entering a country. During the immigration process, the CBP officer will review your passport, visa, and any other necessary documents, and subsequently stamp your passport. D/S on visa stamp: Look for the "D/S" notation on your passport stamp. In general, "D/S," which stands for "Duration of Stay," typically allows for a stay of 6 months from your arrival date. I-94: If you do not find "D/S" on your passport stamp, it's good to check your I-94 form online. This form contains important information regarding your B1/B2 visa length of stay in the United States. Admit until date: Refer to the "Admit Date Until" section on your I-94, typically available within 24 hours of your arrival in the U.S. This date will determine the maximum duration of your stay in the country. It is crucial to check your form I-94 for your approved length of stay by the CBP officer, as mistakes could lead to unintended legal consequences and impact the duration of your stay. "Admit Until Date" on your I-94 would look like the following. Extending B1/B2 Visa If you wish to extend your B1/B2 visa length of stay beyond the duration initially granted, you must apply for an extension with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Extensions are typically granted for valid reasons, such as medical treatment, business purposes, or family emergencies. Ensure that you apply for an extension at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires, as overstaying your visa can lead to serious immigration issues and may affect future entry to the USA. Refer to the extension process below. Related: Extending B1/B2 visa How Soon Can I Re-enter the USA on a Tourist Visa? There is no specific rule or regulation regarding the exact gap between visits on a B2 tourist visa to the United States. However, if you are a frequent visitor on a B2 visa, you should be aware that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may question your intentions if they notice you spend a significant amount of time in the U.S. and only a short time outside the country. The B2 visa is intended for temporary visits to the U.S. for tourism, visiting friends or family, medical treatment, or participating in social events. It is not intended for extended or frequent stays in the U.S. If the CBP officer suspects that you are using the B2 visa to effectively live in the U.S. or work without the appropriate visa, they may deny you entry. The gap between visits will likely be a factor in determining your intentions. If you have recently spent a considerable amount of time in the U.S. on a B2 visa like 6 months and are trying to re-enter, it may raise concerns with immigration officials. It is essential to be able to demonstrate that you have ties to your home country, such as a stable job, family, property, or other significant reasons to return, to avoid any issues. Or, to be safe re-enter after 6 months of gap. Keep in mind that immigration rules and policies can change over time, so it's essential to check the official U.S. government websites or consult with an immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information on B2 visa regulations and guidelines. How Many Times Can You Enter the US on a B1/B2 Visa? There is no set limit on how many times you can visit the US. The B1/B2 visa is a multiple entry visa and you can visit multiple times if your visa is valid. Additionally, this is determined on an individual case-to-case basis and rests at the discretion of the CBP officer who stamps your passport at the port of entry. If a CBP officer determines that you are spending an excessive amount of time in the US in comparison to your home country based on your travel history, he might deny your entry as well. If you have already spent 6 months on a tourist visa, it's safe to re-enter after 6 months of gap but there is no rule as such. The final determination for each entry remains at the discretion of the CBP officer. Tips for Making the Most of Your B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay Be Prepared for CBP Interview: Be ready to answer questions about the purpose of your visit, your intended B1/B2 visa length of stay, and your ties to your home country during the CBP interview. Confidence and honesty are essential. Read more about B1/B2 visa interview questions here. Stay Compliant: Always abide by the rules and conditions of your B1/B2 visa length of stay. Avoid any activities that might be considered unauthorized for your visa category like illegally working or studying or doing some other activity that is not allowed on a B1/B2 visa. Maintain Strong Ties to Your Home Country: Demonstrating strong ties to your home country, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family, can increase the likelihood of a successful B1/B2 visa application and a more extended stay. Strong ties to your home country demonstrate your intention that you will go back to your home country after visiting the US. Keep Essential Documents Handy: Carry copies of all relevant documents, including your passport, visa, I-94, travel itinerary, and financial proofs, during your B1/B2 visa length of stay. Obtaining a B1/B2 visa to the United States can open up a world of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Understanding the B1/B2 visa length of stay is crucial for maximizing your time in the USA. Remember to stay compliant with the visa regulations, plan your trip wisely, and make the most of your B1/B2 visa length of stay while building unforgettable memories in the land of endless possibilities. Safe travels! Next: B1/B2 Visa Extension Related Posts ✔ Lost Indian passport in the US ✔ Apply for a B1/B2 visa for your parents ✔ How to extend a B1/B2 visa after 6 months? Related Topics

If you are traveling to America on a tourist visa for the first time, it's good to know a bit about American culture. Americans like doing their own thing, being on time, and having some space to themselves. When you eat at a restaurant, it's normal to leave a 15-22% tip to say thanks. People there often chat a bit and might ask, "How are you?" to be friendly. The US is diverse, so it's important to respect different ways of thinking. Learn about local traditions, like holding doors for others. Just be open-minded, friendly, and smiling, and stay chill about the differences you might find. Table of Contents: Traveling to America for the First Time US Customs Jet Lag Greeting Culture Tipping Culture Measurements Emergency Services Driving in the US Public Transportation Things to Know About USA US Customs When traveling from India to the US, there are a few things you should avoid bringing to avoid customs issues. It's a good idea not to carry firearms, certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, and animal by-products. Also, avoid bringing plants, seeds, and some dairy products. Items like gold and silver beyond a certain limit might need to be declared. Be cautious with medicines as well; it's advisable to carry prescriptions for them. And, of course, any illegal substances are a big no-no. You can find the complete list of prohibited and restricted items on the CBP website. Jet Lag Traveling from India to the US might bring a thing called jet lag. Jet lag happens because your body needs time to adjust to the new time zone. The US has six time zones and it depends on which part of the US, you are traveling to. There is roughly a 12-hour difference between India and the US time zone. Jet lag can mess up your sleep and eating times. To help, adjust to the local time when you arrive, get sunlight, drink water, and try to sleep at US times. It takes a bit, approximately a week, but your body will catch up, and soon you'll be ready to enjoy your time in the US. Greeting Culture In the US, saying hello is pretty common. So when you reach the US, you will notice that people often greet each other with a simple "Hi" or "Hello". It's normal to use phrases like "How are you?" as a friendly way to start a conversation, even if it's just a quick chat. The expectation is not that you have to answer every time, even a smile in response is perfectly fine. Handshakes are common in more formal situations. Americans are cool with personal space, so keeping a comfortable distance during greetings is a good idea. Just be yourself, keep it friendly, and you'll fit right in! Tipping Culture When you're in the US, tipping is a common thing. In restaurants, it's good to leave a tip, usually around 15-22% of the bill. This is like a way of saying thanks to the waitstaff. Sometimes, taxicab drivers, hotel staff, hairdressers, and other service people also get tips. It's just a nice thing to do to show appreciation for good service. Here is the rule of thumb for tipping: 0-15% Tip - Poor service 15-22% Tip - Good service 22-25% Tip - Excellent service Measurements In the US, they measure things a bit differently than you do in India. Temperature: For example, when they talk about temperature, it's in Fahrenheit, not Celsius. So, if someone says it's 68°F (which is 20°C), it means it's not too hot or too cold, just a pleasant temperature. To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, formula is: °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9, for example 0°C is 32°F 25°C is 77°F 37.7°C is 100°F ​ Speed: For speed, they use miles per hour (mph) instead of kilometers per hour (km/h). If you see speed limit signs, they'll be in mph. To convert miles per hour (mph) to kilometers per hour (kph), you can use this formula: kph = mph × 1.61 Weight: When it comes to weight, like in grocery stores or talking about body weight, they use pounds (lbs) instead of kilograms (kg). If someone says they weigh 150 lbs, that's their weight in pounds. To convert pounds (lbs) to kilograms (kg), you can use the conversion factor: kg = lbs × 0.45 Length: For measuring length, the most commonly used unit is feet in the US. Emergency Services In case of emergencies, the primary contact number is 911 for immediate assistance. You need to dial 911 from your phone (anywhere in the US). It's beneficial to be aware of the locations of nearby hospitals and clinics, ensuring that you're well-informed about where to seek help in unexpected situations. If you have specific medical conditions, it's advisable to purchase medical insurance before traveling, as healthcare services in the US can be costly. However, the decision to buy health insurance is not mandatory and depends on individual preferences. Driving in the US In the US, driving happens on the right side of the road, and cars are left-hand drive. This means the steering wheel is on the left side of the car, and you'll be driving on the right side of the road. It might feel a bit different if you're used to driving on the left like in India, but you'll get used to it. Also, driving in the lane is important. Do not blow a horn unless someone has made a mistake. Give preference to pedestrians and bike riders. In addition to driving on the right side of the road with a left-hand drive, there are a couple of other things to keep in mind while driving in the US. First, most gas stations are self-service, so you'll need to pump your gas. In the US, gas means petrol. Second, be aware of toll roads, especially on highways. Some roads require toll payments, and you might encounter toll booths or electronic toll collection systems. You can also avoid them by adding filters to your Google Maps. But in case you use toll roads, try to make the payment within 5 days otherwise you will be fined. And the fine is a lot, for example, for a 2$ toll, the fine will be 50$. For the first-time mistake usually, tolls waive the fine if you request them (call them) but why wait for that situation? Keep some cash or a card handy for toll payments, or pay them online by searching your vehicle number plate. Here are some commonly used terms which you will encounter: Freeways: High-speed, divided highways for long-distance travel. Ramp/Exits: An inclined entrance or exit, used to get on and off freeways. Avenue/Boulevard/Street: Different terms for roadways, with avenues often running north-south and boulevards east-west, while streets are general terms. Ct (Court): A short road typically ending in a cul-de-sac or loop. Bike Lane: Designated lanes for cyclists on the road, promoting bicycle safety and commuting. Gas station: Means petrol pump. Public Transportation If you prefer not to drive, public transportation options like buses, trains, and subways are also available, but sometimes they will be very limited. You will notice most of the people in the US rely on private transport like cars. However, if you have to travel by public transport, tickets can be purchased at stations or online/ apps, and it's essential to familiarize yourself with popular routes and bus schedules (you can find them on Google Maps). Different cities may have unique payment methods, so understanding the local public transport system will make your travel more convenient and efficient. Things to Know About USA No First Floor Concept: In the US, buildings often skip the "first floor". What might be called the first floor in India is labeled as the ground floor in the US. So, when you see a building with floors, remember, the first floor there is what you'd call the second floor in India. It's a little different! Ice in Drinks Everywhere: Americans often enjoy their drinks with a generous amount of ice, something you might find surprising if you're used to drinks without much or any ice in India. J-walking is a Thing: Jaywalking means crossing the street in the middle instead of using a crosswalk. If you decide to jaywalk, you could be breaking a rule. In India, it is quite common to do so. Drive-Through Everything: Americans love the convenience of drive-throughs. You can get fast food and coffee, and even do your banking without leaving your car. Flags Everywhere: The American flag is all around - on houses, cars, and clothes. You'll notice it more frequently compared to how flags are commonly seen in India. Saying Sorry a Lot: Americans apologize a bunch, even for little things. It's just part of being polite, and you might hear 'sorry' even when it's not necessary. Barbecues Any Day: Americans don't save barbecues for weekends. They'll grill up burgers and hot dogs even on a regular weekday. It's a year-round thing. Next: US Tourist Visa Related Posts ✔ B1/B2 visa interview questions ✔ B2 visa extension in the US ✔ Tourist visa rejection reasons Related Topics

Knowing how to withdraw or cancel a USCIS pending application, such as a change of status, that is still being reviewed becomes important when things in your life change, such as finding a new job or encountering unexpected events. If your application is still under process and hasn't been approved or denied by USCIS, you can cancel or withdraw it by writing a formal letter to USCIS. There is no specific USCIS form for requesting withdrawal. The first thing to do when withdrawing your USCIS application is to write a formal letter to USCIS. The withdrawal letter should have your pending case receipt number, full name, date of birth, I-94 details, current address, and a clear reason to withdraw your application. Remember to sign the letter in original, and it's a good idea to keep a copy before sending it to USCIS. Table of Contents: USCIS Withdraw Application Letter Example USCIS Withdraw Application Letter How to Write a USCIS Withdrawal Application Letter Where to Send Withdrawal Letter to USCIS Step-by-Step Guide to USCIS Application Withdrawal USCIS Withdraw Application Online Withdrawal Letter USCIS Processing Time FAQs on USCIS Withdraw Application Letter Example USCIS Withdraw Application Letter [Date] [Texas Service Center] Subject: Request for Withdrawal of [I-539 Application] - [Your Full Name], [Case Number] I am writing to formally request the withdrawal of my pending immigration application with USCIS. I appreciate the attention and consideration given to my case so far. Reason: [Briefly explain the reason for withdrawal, such as a change in personal circumstances, job opportunity, etc. for example, My H1B transfer has been approved so I do not need a change of status.] Here are the details related to my pending application: Receipt Number: [Your Pending USCIS Case Number] Receipt Date: [MM/DD/YYYY as Your Receipt Notice] Passport Number: [Enter Your Passport Number] Full Name: [Enter Your Name] Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth] I-94 Number: [Enter Your Latest I-94 Number] Current Immigration Status: [e.g., H1B, F1, etc.] Contact Details: [Email, and Phone Number] Current Address: [Your Current Address] Beneficiary's Name (if applicable): [Full Name of any Dependents Included] I have signed this letter in the original, as I understand that an original signature is required for this withdrawal request. I appreciate your understanding and assistance in this matter. If there are any specific forms or procedures required for this withdrawal, please let me know. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to receiving confirmation of the withdrawal. Sincerely, [Your Full Name (Original Signature)] [Typed Full Name] How to Write a USCIS Withdrawal Application Letter If you want to write the USCIS withdrawal application letter yourself, you should include the following details for a smooth application withdrawal process: Personal Details: Include your full name, date of birth, passport number, and I-94 number. Pending Application Details: Provide your pending case number (USCIS receipt number), current immigration status (e.g., H1B, F1, etc.), the purpose of the application, and beneficiary's name (dependents name if applicable). Contact Information: Share your email address, phone number, and current residential address. Reason for Withdrawal: Clearly state the reason for withdrawing the application, such as a change in personal circumstances or a new job opportunity. Request for Withdrawal: Explicitly express your request to withdraw the application. Sign and Date: Remember to sign and date the letter (in original). Keep a Copy: Maintain a duplicate of the withdrawal letter for your records and documentation. Sending Method: Send the withdrawal letter preferably via USPS, FedEx, or UPS. Where to Send Withdrawal Letter to USCIS Please forward your withdrawal letter to the same USCIS service center where you initially submitted your application. You can find the address listed on the USCIS website for the most current information. For example, For I-539 applications For I-765 applications For I-130 applications Step-by-Step Guide to USCIS Application Withdrawal Identify USCIS Center: Determine the specific USCIS service center or NVC where you submitted your original application. Draft Withdrawal Letter: Write a formal withdrawal letter stating your intention, including your details and the reason. Refer to the template provided earlier. Sign and Make a Copy: Sign the letter and keep a copy for your records. Mail Certified with Tracking: Send the letter and documents via certified mail with tracking to the USCIS center. It's good to include your USCIS case status number on the outside of the envelope. Monitor Online Case Status: Regularly check the USCIS case status portal for updates. Follow Up If Needed: Contact USCIS if confirmation is not received within a reasonable timeframe. The toll-free number is 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833, VRS 877-709-5797). Hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm Eastern. USCIS Withdraw Application Online There is no online method to cancel or withdraw your USCIS application. You must write a formal letter to USCIS to withdraw your case and send it to the same mailing address where you submitted your initial application. Withdrawal Letter USCIS Processing Time The processing time for a USCIS withdrawal letter is not explicitly specified by USCIS because the withdrawal process itself doesn't involve a standard processing time, unlike other applications or petitions. However, in general, USCIS typically takes processing time between 1 to 3 months. It's recommended to regularly check the case status online and contact the USCIS service center for follow-up after 30 days of applying. FAQs on USCIS Withdraw Application Letter Can I withdraw the pending change of status application? Yes, you can withdraw the pending change of status application by writing a formal letter to USCIS. Make sure you maintain a valid status in the US after your application is canceled or withdrawn. Next: Indian Passport Renewal Related Posts ✔ OCI for minors ✔ B1/B2 visa interview questions ✔ How to get H4 EAD in 15 days Related Topics

The DS-160 form is valid for one year from completion, while the current wait time for US visitor visa interviews is over 365 days. Due to the long wait times for US visitor visa (B1/B2) appointments in India, there's a high chance that your DS-160 form may have expired by the time your appointment arrives. If your DS-160 has expired and you're currently standing at one of the four centers in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai, and searching for how to update it, continue reading this blog for step-by-step guidance. US Visa Waiting Time As of Jun 03, 2024, the US visitor visa (B1/B2) waiting time for India is as follows: How to Check DS-160 Validity? To check the validity of your DS-160, locate the 'completion date' on the confirmation page, generated after electronically submitting and signing the DS-160 form. The 'completion date' is below the travel purpose information on the DS-160 confirmation page. If your 'completion date' is over a year old, your DS-160 has already expired, and you must fill it out again. You don't need to pay the appointment fees again, but you will need to update your DS-160 since it has a validity of one year. Changing an Expired DS-160 After Booking Appointment To update an expired DS-160 after booking an appointment, you must retrieve your application, which will automatically fill out all the details for you. Then, you will sign and submit the form. Follow these steps: Visit the U.S. Department of State website. Enter the location where you will be giving the interview and select 'Retrieve Application'. Do not select 'Create a New Application'. Next, enter your expired application ID and hit 'Retrieve Application'. The system will automatically fill in most of the information from your previous expired application. Keep saving the DS-160 form, otherwise your session will expire. Sign and submit as a preparer (using your details) and you will receive a new confirmation number. Validate the completion date, it should be today's date. Take the printout and attend the interview. I had to fill out the DS-160 form again for my parents because I submitted it over a year ago. In our case, the embassy gave my parents a few hours to complete the form, print it, and present it on the same day. I filled out the DS-160 form at night in the US time zone while my parents were in India at the embassy, looking for places to print the new confirmation page. Trust me, it was not a good experience. If you found this blog helpful, please share this experience so that others are aware and do not have to go through this hassle. Comment and share your thoughts. Next: Things to know about American culture before traveling Related Posts ✔ How to apply for an OCI card? ✔ How to apply for H4 EAD? ✔ How to apply for B1/B2 visa for parents? Related Topics

Main menu: Spark Scala Tutorial In this Apache Spark Scala tutorial, you will learn how to create, "Hello World" Scala application with Eclipse Scala IDE. Scala application, project, package, objects, run configuration, and debug the application. The motive is to get you guys familiar with Scala IDE. I assume that you have already installed Eclipse Scala IDE, if not please refer to my previous post for installation (Windows | Mac users). Next, open Eclipse Scala IDE. Scala Hello World Example 1. Create a new Scala project "hellooWorld" Go to File → New → Project and enter hellooWorld in the project name field and click finish. 2. Create a new Scala Package "hellooWorld" Right-click on the hellooWorld project in the Package Explorer panel → New → Package and enter the name hellooWorld and finish. 3. Create a Scala object "hello": Expand the hellooWorld project tree and right-click on the hellooWorld package → New → Scala Object → enter hello in the Object name field and press finish. 4. Write the program to print the Hello World message. package hellooWorld object hello { def main (args: Array[String]) { println("Hello World") } } 5. Create a Run configuration for the Scala application: Right-click on hello.scala in package explorer → Run As → Scala Application. Select the first matching item, the HellooWorld class, and click OK. You can also define the configuration manually and run it. Just mention the project and class name. That's it. You can see the output Hello World in the output console. That's all guys! If you face any problem while running the program please mention it in the comments section below. Thank you. Next: Spark Shell Navigation menu ​1. Apache Spark and Scala Installation 1.1 Spark installation on Windows​ 1.2 Spark installation on Mac 2. Getting Familiar with Scala IDE 2.1 Hello World with Scala IDE​ 3. Spark data structure basics 3.1 Spark RDD Transformations and Actions example 4. Spark Shell 4.1 Starting Spark shell with SparkContext example​ 5. Reading data files in Spark 5.1 SparkContext Parallelize and read textFile method 5.2 Loading JSON file using Spark Scala 5.3 Loading TEXT file using Spark Scala 5.4 How to convert RDD to dataframe? 6. Writing data files in Spark ​6.1 How to write single CSV file in Spark 7. Spark streaming 7.1 Word count example Scala 7.2 Analyzing Twitter texts 8. Sample Big Data Architecture with Apache Spark 9. What's Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Predictive Analytics, Data Science? 10. Spark Interview Questions and Answers

USCIS's green card processing times can be lengthy, and many of us wonder if we can make a green card expedited request, specifically an "I-485 Expedite Request". For the first step of the green card processing, Form I-140, there is already a premium processing service available for $2,805, which you can use. However, for the second step, Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), there is no premium processing service available. In this case, you can submit an Expedite Request if you are eligible. There could be various reasons why someone might want to expedite their I-485 application for a green card, such as maintaining visa status, job opportunities, medical emergencies, traveling outside the US, etc. Table of Contents: I-485 Expedite Request Introduction When to make an I-485 Expedite Request? Reasons for I-485 Expedite Request Severe Financial Loss Urgent Humanitarian Grounds or Emergencies US Government Interest USCIS Error How to submit a Green Card Expedite Request? Contact USCIS through Emma (USCIS Chat Service) Contacting your Local Congressman USCIS Expedite Request Fee My I-485 Expedite Experience USCIS Expedited Processing Time USCIS Expedite Request Status Check I-485 Expedite Request Approved FAQs Note that the term "Expedite Request" is different from "Premium Processing". Here, I am sharing my I-485 Expedite Request experience. There is no I-485 premium processing, but you can submit an Expedite Request. Related: USCIS premium processing When to make an I-485 Expedite Request? There are a few things to keep in mind before submitting an I-485 Expedite Request: A pending I-485 can only be expedited once you have received your receipt number, and Your biometrics have been completed. If you are still waiting to receive your biometric notice from USCIS, please wait, get your biometrics done first, and then you can submit an I-485 Expedite Request to USCIS for your case. Reasons for I-485 Expedite Request (Green Card) In certain cases, you can request USCIS to expedite the I-485 application on a humanitarian basis but it is at the sole discretion of the officer handling your case. USCIS may require you to submit proper documentation for the I-485 Expedite Request. There are some situations when USCIS may consider your case to grant expedite. The reasons could be one or more of the following: Related: How to apply for H4 EAD? Severe Financial Loss to Individual or Company You can demonstrate that if you lose the job then it will financially impact you severely like you bought a house or impact to kid's higher education but you need to have sufficient documentation to prove that. Additionally, you can also show that your company/employer can face financial loss in case you lose your job since your role is critical in the company and they can't afford to lose you. Urgent Humanitarian Grounds or Emergencies This expedited request is related to human welfare. You can demonstrate that your health condition, someone in your family is sick or some ongoing medical treatment may require you to expedite I-485. The emergencies could be if a foreign national fears persecution if they go back to their home country. Related: H1B grace period with severance pay Compelling US government interest U.S. government interests may include but are not limited to, cases identified as urgent by other government agencies, including labor and employment agencies, and public safety or national security interests. Clear USCIS error (in RFE) If USCIS had issued a request for further evidence (RFE) which was a clear error and you have already submitted the proofs then you can request to expedite green card processing. There could be several other USCIS humanitarian reasons to make an expedited request. You can read about it in detail from the following blog. Related: USCIS expedite request reasons How to submit a Green Card Expedite Request? There are a couple of ways that I am aware of to make an I-485 Expedite Request. Contact USCIS through Emma (USCIS Chat Service) You can connect to a live chat representative through Emma. Connect with Emma and write in the chat box that you need to connect to a live representative. Then you have to wait in the queue till a representative comes online. You need to provide your receipt number, name, and date of birth for verification purposes. Then you need to chat with a representative to expedite your case and you will be asked to provide the reason for your I-485 Expedite Request. As I mentioned above you need to see first if your reason qualifies for any of the top four reasons or any other humanitarian reason. Then the representative will give you a referral ID and will tell you that you should hear back something in 7 business days or may take longer. You can choose to chat or call USCIS at 800-375-5283 but calling has a long wait time so chat service is recommended. Contacting your Local Congressman In case you have contacted USCIS but in vain then the other way is to contact your local congressman. You can find your local congressmen's contact information here. Once you have found your representative you can either call or email them. The representative can also ask you for the documentation to expedite your case and may contact USCIS on your behalf. It's similar to how we did in the J1 waiver expedite request. USCIS Expedite Request Fee USCIS does not charge a fee for submitting an Expedite Request for the I-485 application. In contrast, there is a premium processing service available for the I-140, where an upfront payment of $2,805 is required. It's important to note that there is no premium service option for the I-485. I-485 Expedite Experience When my I-485 bio-metric was done, within a month or so I connected with a live USCIS chat representative through Emma. I kept all the information handy like my case number and other personal information. I told the USCIS representative that my reason was a severe financial loss. I gave the following reasons for the I-485 Expedite Request: My J1 visa was about to end so I could go out of status which could result in the loss of my job. We were expecting our first baby at that time so another reason was to support my child and I needed to have a job to do that. We purchased a house during that time and the loss of a job can delay the mortgage payment. I just wrote this to the USCIS live agent and I got a response that I will hear back something from USCIS within 7 days or may take longer and USCIS will contact me if they need any evidence for my case through email. USCIS Expedited Processing Time It will be very hard to predict the USCIS expedited processing time but it may take as little as 7 days or can take as long as 3 months. Sometimes, it is possible that USCIS can say that your case does not qualify for an expedited request or even deny your request if the USCIS officer is not satisfied with the evidence you have provided. There is no set timeline since it varies from case to case and officer to officer. USCIS Expedite Request Status Check You can check the status of your Expedite Request on the USCIS website. Sometimes, USCIS changes the status to 'Expedite Request Approved,' and sometimes it does not. In my case, the status was not updated on the website, but I received a letter from USCIS stating that they had accepted my Expedite Request. Next, I waited for the I-485 application to be approved. Expedite Request Approved What Next Surprisingly, after a month our (mine and my spouse's) I-485 Expedite Request got approved and I received the green card. Before receiving the green card, I also received a letter from USCIS stating that 'USCIS has received my Expedite Request and has taken action on it'. USCIS never asked me for any evidence but I had all the evidence prepared. In most cases, USCIS may ask you to fax the evidence so be prepared for everything in advance. I am not a lawyer and I have only shared my experience to help people going through the same process. Please leave your questions in the comment section and I will try my best to answer them. Related: How to request premium processing using Form I-907? FAQs on I-485 Expedite Request Can you expedite I-485? Yes, you can request faster processing of I-485 based on humanitarian reasons, financial loss, etc. There is no USCIS premium processing service for the I-485 form. How to expedite the I-485 application? You can request USCIS to expedite the I-485 application through chat service (Emma) or by calling USCIS at 800-375-5283. You would need your receipt number and reasons to expedite the I-485 request. What are the Reasons to Expedite Green Card? There are four major reasons to expedite a green card: Severe Financial Loss to Individuals or Companies like Job opportunities, Maintaining Visa Status, etc. Humanitarian Reasons or Emergency Situations US Government Interest or National Interest Clear USCIS Error How long after the I-485 Expedite Request is Approved? After the I-485 Expedite Request approval, it took approximately a month to receive the green card. How much is the USCIS Expedite Request Processing Time? There is no set timeline for USCIS Expedite Request processing; it could vary from a week to 3 months, depending on whether your Expedite Request was accepted. Next: Indian Passport Renewal in the US Related Posts ✔ Go to Main Menu ✔ Tourist visa for parents ✔ Tourist visa extension beyond 6 months Related Topics

Expedited processing of the J1 waiver application is not typical. However, it is available for J1 waiver cases with urgent or justifiable humanitarian needs, or cases that demonstrate clear and significant US government interest. Mostly, J1 waiver cases are expedited due to humanitarian needs. Obtaining a J1 waiver on time is crucial for those wanting to stay longer in the US, especially if subject to a two-year home residency rule. I know of a scenario where a friend had to travel back to India for a few months as she could not get a J1 waiver on time. Fortunately, she obtained the waiver after two months and returned to the USA. I'm also aware of people who successfully expedited their J1 waiver applications. While I know of a couple of ways to expedite the J1 waiver application, it's important to note that this is not a 100% guaranteed process. Ultimately, everything is at the discretion of the Department of State (DOS). 01. Expedite J1 Waiver By Email One option is to send an email to 212ewaiver@state.gov. However, no one can guarantee its effectiveness, as it depends on the specific circumstances of each case. Expedited options are typically reserved for humanitarian reasons, so the strength of your reason will determine its success. Related: Urgent humanitarian reasons for expedited request You need to send an email explaining your circumstances and attach supporting documents that prove the basis of your expedited reason. The Department of State usually responds within 10 days, but one can always send follow-up emails. Include the following details when structuring your email: Case number Your full name Date of birth The basis under which you are applying for a waiver A brief explanation of your inquiry [reasons] Supporting documents Here are some example reasons to expedite a J1 waiver application: One of the reasons could be a financial loss where you can explain how your family, house mortgage, kid's education, etc.. depends on your income, and if you don't get a waiver on time you will have to quit your job, sell the house, interrupt kids education. You can show your monthly mortgage statement or your kid's education some sort of proof. Another reason could be a job offer and you can share the offer letter explaining how important is this job offer for you and that you need a waiver to join a firm from so and so date. If you don't get a waiver on time you will lose this opportunity. One of my friends expedited his case as he had a job offer and he was able to get it. Sample Email to Expedite J1 Waiver Date: Full Name: Address: Contact Information: Case Number: Current Status in the US: Subject: Request for Expedited Processing of J1 Waiver - [Your Full Name] - Case Number: [Your Case Number] Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name], and I am writing to request expedited processing of my J1 waiver application due to some urgent circumstances. I am seeking expedited processing due to [Clearly explain the humanitarian or justifiable reason for expedited processing. Provide specific details about your situation]. Please find attached the following documents supporting my expedited request: [List the documents you are attaching] [Such as medical records, doctor's letter, or any relevant evidence] I am committed to providing any additional information or documentation required promptly. If there are any concerns or additional details needed, please do not hesitate to contact me. I appreciate your attention to this matter and understand that the decision is at the discretion of the Department of State. Thank you. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information] 02. Contacting a Member of Congress or Senator The second option to expedite the J1 waiver application is by contacting congressmen or a senator. This should be your last option and should be done only in case of an emergency. Also referred to as a congressman or congresswoman, each representative is elected to a two-year term serving the people of a specific congressional district. The number of voting representatives in the House is fixed by law at no more than 435, proportionally representing the population of the 50 states. First, you need to know who is the congressman in your zip code. You can find it here. After you know who is your congressman, you can try reaching out to them via email or phone. Email is the most effective way as it's convenient and easy to keep track of. If there is an emergency or if you prefer to speak over the phone, you can also contact them over the phone. You will find the contact number on the same page after searching for your congressman by zip code. Related: Contacting congressman for expedited request Usually, there is a dedicated staff member who takes care of immigration services and he will be able to help you by contacting DOS on your behalf and expediting your case based on your situation. They will ask you for the reason (which you need to summarize in the letter), perhaps you have to send the proof of reason as to why you need an expedition. Related: J1 waiver favorable recommendation next step Thank you! Please comment if you have any further questions, I will try to help to the best of my knowledge. Next: J1 to H1B Related Posts ✔ J1 to B2 visa ✔ J1 to Green Card ✔ Indian Passport Renewal ✔ How to apply for an OCI card Related Topics

Many people are unaware that contacting a congressman or senator can help expedite their immigration case with USCIS. You can submit an Expedite Request for EAD applications, I-485 applications, J1 waivers, etc., through a Congressman if: You're experiencing significant delays in response from USCIS and don't have the option for premium processing available. You have a strong, valid, and time-sensitive reason for expediting your case. However, contacting a Congressman or Senator should be your last resort. I previously explained humanitarian reasons and how you can submit an expedited request with USCIS through their virtual chat assistant, Emma, or by calling USCIS. Related: Humanitarian reasons for Expedite Request Table of Contents: Congressman USCIS Expedite Request Reasons for Expedite Request Contacting Congressman/Senator for Expedite Request CONGRESSMAN SENATOR Supporting Documents for Expedite Request to Congressman USCIS Expedite Request Letter Sample Expedite Request Denied What Next FAQs on Congressman USCIS Expedite Request Reasons for Expedite Request Reasons for expedited requests could include financial loss, humanitarian concerns, job opportunities, or any other time-sensitive scenarios. Regardless, you should have sufficient documentation to support your Expedite request. It's important to note that you should not expedite applications for which premium processing services are available. For applications like H4 EAD, J1 waiver, and I-485, where premium processing services are unavailable, you can request expedited processing without any additional fee if you have a compelling reason. Related: I-485 Expedite Request Note that while this process doesn't guarantee approval, the congressional representative will collaborate with federal agencies on your behalf, potentially speeding up your case. This collaboration, however, does not ensure approval, but you can expect faster processing. It's essential to remember that Senators represent the entire state, while Congressmen represent specific districts within each state; these are two separate representatives. It's advisable not to contact both of them simultaneously, as this may create confusion and lead to delays. Typically, individuals contact their Congressmen in their respective districts. Contacting Congressman/Senator for Expedite Request Congressmen and Senators usually have dedicated staff to handle these types of requests. Once you contact them and provide the necessary details, it may take a few days to a week for them to approach USCIS representatives. CONGRESSMAN Locate your specific representative using your address and ZIP code. Check here. You will find details regarding both Democrat and Republican representatives. See the below screenshot. Check their official website (click their names) for contact information and the preferred method of communication. Typically, you will find links like Need help with 'Passport and Immigration', 'Agency Assistance', or 'Federal Agency' on their website. SENATOR Find the contact details for your Senators on their official websites. Check here. Senators often have both Washington, D.C., and local state offices. Contacting the local office will be faster. There will be two senators per state. Understand that Senators may deal with a broader range of issues but may have more resources to handle constituent concerns. Once you know whom to contact, you can reach out to them via email or call them. Typically, individuals reach out to them via email. If you need faster assistance, contact them via phone. Supporting Documents for Expedite Request to Congressman Expedite Request Letter or Email: Clearly outline the reasons for expediting your case, such as financial loss, humanitarian concerns, job opportunities, or any other time-sensitive situations. You can refer to the template in the next section. Documents: Include relevant documents supporting your case, such as medical records, job offer letters, financial statements, financial bills, bank statements, police reports, or any other documentation that validates the urgency of your case. Also, include copies of any letters, emails, or notices you have received from USCIS related to your case. Case Receipt Notice: Don't forget to provide a copy of the receipt notice for your immigration application to help the Congressman's office identify and track your case. Your Contact Information: Make sure your letter includes accurate contact information so that the Congressman's office can reach you easily for further clarification or updates. USCIS Expedite Request Letter Sample Subject: USCIS Expedite Request for [Your Name] - [Case Number] Dear [USCIS Representative's Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request an expedited review of my immigration case due to [briefly explain the reason for an expedited request, such as urgent medical treatment, impending financial loss, or other time-sensitive circumstances]. My case details are as follows: Applicant Name: [Your Name] Case Number: [Your Case Number] Application Type: [Type of Application, e.g., Adjustment of Status, EAD, Waiver, etc.] Date of Application Submission: [Date of Submission] I have attached supporting documentation that outlines the urgency and necessity of expediting my case. [Describe any attached documents briefly, such as medical records, police reports, job offer letters, etc]. I understand that expediting a case is at the discretion of USCIS, and I assure you that I have provided all necessary evidence to support my request. I kindly request your prompt attention to this matter and would be grateful for any assistance you can provide in expediting the processing of my application. Please let me know if there are any additional steps I need to take or if you require any further information from my end. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information] [Your Address] Expedite Request Denied What Next If your expedite request is denied, it's not necessarily the end of the road. You have two options: Wait: The denial is specifically for the expedite request and not for your original application. If you feel that your expedite reason wasn't compelling enough or lacked sufficient evidence, you can choose to wait for regular processing. Re-appeal: If you believe you now have sufficient evidence to prove your case, you can consider submitting another expedite request. It's important to note that the final decision on your expedite request rests solely with USCIS, and it may vary depending on the reviewing officer. Therefore, it's essential to carefully assess your situation and provide strong supporting evidence when making an expedite request. It's advisable to hire an attorney if you have a complicated case. I hope you find this blog helpful and that it may potentially speed up your case. If you have any questions, feel free to ask, and I'll do my best to assist you. Please note that I am not a lawyer and do not have any affiliation with legal professionals. I have personally experienced expedited processing a couple of times, and I'm sharing my experiences here. Thank you. FAQs on Congressman USCIS Expedite Request Can non-U.S. citizens contact the congressman to expedite immigration cases? Yes, you can. But usually, it's U.S. citizens, like the immigrant's spouse or family, who talk to their elected representatives called congresspeople. That's because these representatives are chosen by U.S. citizens. Non-U.S. citizens have also succeeded, but sometimes it might be harder to get their attention. Also, getting in touch with a congressperson might not always change things a lot. However, there is no harm in trying. Related: Green Card vs Citizenship What is the typical response time from USCIS for a congressional inquiry regarding immigration matters? The response time from USCIS for a congressional inquiry regarding immigration matters can vary, but generally, you can expect a response within 30 days. How to contact a Congressman or Senator? To contact a Congressman or Senator, find their contact details on their official website or use online tools mentioned earlier in this blog to identify them. Choose the appropriate office (local or D.C.), compose a concise message, and reach out via email, phone, or mail based on your urgency. What's the fee for a USCIS Expedite Request? $0. There are no fees for a USCIS Expedite Request. Next: Humanitarian reasons for an expedited request Related Posts ✔ J1 waiver expedite request ✔ How to request USCIS premium processing? Related Topics

Several people asked about what's the average, or typical severance package (2023) at the manager level, director level, VP, executive level, or C-level, or even for individual contributors like software engineers with 20-30 years of experience. I know people who got laid off from firms like Google, Amazon & Microsoft and I thought sharing this experience might help others to understand the typical severance package even better. Note that I am not a lawyer, and I just requested the Dataneb team to publish this content so that others might find it useful. Table of Contents: Average Severance Package Factors that Decide Severance Package Average Severance Package Examples 01. Meta Severance Package 02. Google Severance Package 03. Uber Technologies Inc. 04. Verizon Severance Package Severance Pay Calculation Negotiating a Severance Package Can you negotiate a severance package? How to negotiate a severance package? How to negotiate severance when laid off? How to ask for severance pay when resigning? How to ask for more severance? Severance Package Negotiation Example Letter/ Email FAQs on Average Severance Package Factors that Decide Average Severance Package It's a very broad topic when it comes to estimating someone's severance package. It depends upon several factors like the level of seniority, years of service in the industry, firm size, your contract, company policies, job performance, and even some extent to negotiation. However, in general, the benefits provided through the severance package are the same for all employees. The only variation would be in the final severance pay calculation, assuming there was no specific severance agreement when you initially signed and accepted the offer letter. Related: H1B Grace Period with Severance Pay If an employee had a severance agreement in place when signing the offer letter, the situation becomes different, and it becomes challenging to determine the specific benefits each employee is receiving. The benefits offered in the average severance package 2023 have been also shrinking as compared to what was offered a few years back, for example, the standard was typically one month of pay for each year of service, but now it has been reduced to two weeks of pay for each year of service. In certain cases, some companies have even further lowered it to one week of pay for each year of service. Severance packages are often not a common topic of discussion during the offer letter signing process for most individuals, but past situations like COVID and recent mass layoffs have prompted individuals to think about it. Related: Options after H1B Layoff The severance package calculation would depend upon multiple factors listed below. However, whether you are at the VP level, a manager, an executive, or a director, the severance benefits structure would remain the same. Employee's years of service and seniority: Typically, the longer an employee has worked for the company, the more severance pay they may receive as recognition of their loyalty and contribution. Industry: Different industries have different standards for severance pay, and some may offer more generous packages than others. The following table shows the average annual salary range of VPs across various industries. Related: How to renew an Indian passport in the US? Company size: Larger companies may have more resources to offer larger severance packages, while smaller companies may not have as much financial flexibility. Terms of the employment contract or company policy: Some employment contracts or company policies may outline specific severance pay, while others may leave it up to negotiation or offer none at all. Reason for termination: The reason for termination can impact the amount of severance pay offered. For example, employees laid off due to company restructuring may receive more significant severance pay than those terminated for poor job performance. Employee's job performance: An employee's job performance can impact the amount of severance pay offered. Those who perform well may be offered a more generous package than those who do not. Again, ultimately it's the company who will be deciding these factors unless you have signed an explicit severance agreement. Potential legal disputes or litigation: Employers may offer a more substantial severance package to avoid potential legal disputes or litigation related to the employee's termination. Market conditions in the industry: The market conditions in the industry can impact the amount of severance pay offered, as companies may need to offer more to attract or retain talent. Negotiation between employer and employee: Severance packages can often be negotiable, and both the employer and employee may need to compromise to reach an agreement that is satisfactory to both parties. Average Severance Package Examples 01. Meta Severance Package In Nov 2022, Facebook/ Meta laid off approximately 11,000 employees which constituted 13% of their workforce. Meta severance package included: Severance pay. We will pay 16 weeks of base pay plus two additional weeks for every year of service, with no cap. PTO. We’ll pay for all remaining PTO time. RSU vesting. Everyone impacted will receive their November 15, 2022 vesting. Health insurance. We’ll cover the cost of healthcare for people and their families for six months. Career Services. We’ll provide three months of career support with an external vendor, including early access to unpublished job leads. Immigration support. I know this is especially difficult if you’re here on a visa. There’s a notice period before termination and some visa grace periods, which means everyone will have time to make plans and work through their immigration status. We have dedicated immigration specialists to help guide you based on what you and your family need. Severance Pay Calculation For example, if you have experience of 20 years laid off as VP, director, executive, or manager, in the above case your severance pay will be 2 weeks for every year of service which will be 40 weeks + 16 weeks of base pay = 14 months of pay as there is no cap. Related: How to apply for a US passport for the newborn? In addition, if you have PTO time that will add. Let's assume for this example you have a month (4 weeks) of PTO while laid off. Next will be your bonus or RSU vesting contributing to severance pay. So, you will end up having (14 + 1) months of pay + bonus/RSU vesting = This will be a minimum of half a million dollars or more if you are a manager, VP, director, or executive. Base pay for these levels would vary between the range of 200K to 600K, plus add roughly a 35% to 55% bonus on top of it. If you can find a new job within a month or two of layoff, this severance pay is like a lottery ticket. Well, losing a job is not a good feeling, but in the end, if you can find a new job quickly why not? Related: How to expedite green card processing? 02. Google Severance Package In Jan 2023, Google announced that it would be laying off 12,000 employees roughly 12% of its workforce in the US. Google offered a severance package: Severance pay. We will pay employees during the full notification period (minimum 60 days). Vesting. We will also offer a severance package starting at 16 weeks' salary plus 2 weeks for every additional year at Google, and accelerate at least 16 weeks of GSU (Google Stock Units) vesting. PTO. We will pay 2022 bonuses and the remaining vacation time. Health Insurance & Immigration Support. We will be offering 6 months of healthcare, job placement services, and immigration support for those affected. Outside the US, we will support employees in line with local practices. 03. Uber Technologies Inc. In 2019, Uber Technologies Inc. offered a severance package to about 400 of its marketing employees as part of a company-wide restructuring effort. The package included: Severance pay. A minimum of 10 weeks of severance pay is based on the employee's tenure at the company. PTO. Payment for accrued but unused vacation time and sick time. Healthcare. Continued healthcare coverage for some time, with the option to continue healthcare coverage at the employee's own expense after that. Immigration support. Outplacement services to help employees find new jobs. Uber's severance package was relatively generous compared to some other companies' packages, especially given the company's size and financial situation at the time. 04. Verizon Severance Package In 2018, Verizon announced plans to offer a voluntary severance package to about 44,000 employees as part of a cost-cutting effort. The package included: Severance pay. Up to 60 weeks of pay based on the employee's years of service and salary level. PTO. Payment for accrued but unused vacation time. Healthcare. The employee will be provided with healthcare coverage for a particular duration and will have the choice to continue the coverage at their own cost beyond that period. It's important to note that severance packages can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of each employee's departure and the company's financial situation. These examples are provided as general illustrations of what severance packages may include. Severance Pay Calculation These are some common elements that are used to calculate severance pay, but not necessarily all of them. Severance Payment: A lump-sum payment based on the employee's tenure at the company. Number of years employed with the company X 2 weeks of regular pay = Severance pay total, for example: If your salary is $100,000 per year, that is roughly $3,846 for two weeks. If you have been at the company for 10 years, your severance pay would be $38,460 ($3,846 X 10 years). Assuming there is no cap mentioned in the severance package offer. Related: How to apply for H4 EAD? Continued salary or pay period: Payment of a percentage of the employee's salary for a certain period. This helps certain visa holders like H1B to prepare for finding a new job as the USCIS grace period is only 60 days. Read more. For example, In Jan 2023, Google continued paying for a couple of months. So if the employee was terminated in Jan, he/she was still on payroll until Mar 2023. Healthcare benefits: Continued healthcare coverage for some time or a lump-sum payment to help cover the cost of COBRA or other health insurance. Retirement benefits: Payment of a lump-sum amount or continuation of certain retirement benefits. Stock vesting: Acceleration of vesting or other treatment of stock options or equity awards. Immigration/outplacement services: Assistance with job search, resume writing, and interview preparation. Other benefits: Payment for accrued but unused vacation time, a company car or cell phone, or other benefits that the employee may have received as part of their employment. Negotiating a Severance Package When you're leaving a job, negotiating a severance package means talking to your employer about money and benefits that can help you during the time you're not working. This can be important to make sure you have enough support between jobs. Whether you're leaving in a good way or because of unexpected things, learning how to talk about a severance package can help you get good terms and move forward in your career. I will cover this next. Related: Humanitarian Reasons for Expedite Request Can you negotiate a severance package? Yes, you can negotiate a severance package. When leaving a job, it's possible to have discussions with your employer about the terms of your departure, including things like compensation, benefits, and support during the transition. Keep in mind that the outcome of these negotiations depends on various factors, including company policies, your role, and the circumstances of your departure. It's often a good idea to approach these discussions with professionalism and clarity about your needs and expectations. How to negotiate a severance package? Negotiating a severance package involves several steps to ensure you're advocating for the best possible terms. Here's a simple guide: Assess the Situation: Understand the reasons for your departure and your value to the company. Consider your years of service, role, contributions, and any relevant employment agreements. Do Your Research: Research typical severance packages in your company, role, and level of experience. This will give you a benchmark to guide your negotiations. Try applications like Blind to find the typical severance package without revealing your identity. Gather Information: Collect information about your company's severance policies, if any, and review your employment contract for any relevant clauses. Prepare a Proposal: Create a clear and reasonable proposal that outlines your expectations for severance pay, benefits continuation, job search support, and other terms you believe are fair. Choose the Right Time: Approach your employer at an appropriate time, such as during a performance review or a one-on-one meeting. Be sensitive to the company's circumstances as well. Communicate Professionally: Present your proposal professionally and respectfully. Explain your reasons for the request and how it aligns with your contributions and years of service. Be Flexible: Be open to negotiation and willing to compromise on certain terms if needed. Approach the negotiation with a collaborative mindset. Document Everything: Keep records of your discussions and any agreements made. This ensures clarity and helps prevent misunderstandings later. Consider Legal Counsel: If your situation is complex or involves legal aspects, consider seeking advice from an employment attorney to ensure your rights are protected. Focus on a Win-Win: Approach the negotiation to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome. Leaving on positive terms can be beneficial for both you and the company. Remember, each situation is unique, and the success of your negotiations will depend on various factors. Approach the process professionally and with a clear understanding of your value and needs. How to negotiate severance when laid off? My buddy recently faced a layoff, and I was impressed by how he handled it. After the initial shock, he dove into understanding the company's severance policies and his contributions over the years (~ 19 years). He scheduled a chat with HR and crafted a well-thought-out proposal, covering everything from severance pay to benefits continuation. He stayed calm, emphasized his dedication, and kept things professional during the conversation. The best part? He managed to negotiate terms that provided him with a safety net while he looked for his next opportunity. It's a testament to how he approached the situation head-on and with a positive attitude. Related: How to apply for a B2 visa for parents? How to ask for severance pay when resigning? A few years back, one of my friends resigned from his job, and I was impressed by how he handled it. He scheduled a meeting with his supervisor and explained his decision professionally and respectfully. He emphasized the positive contributions he had made during his time at the company and expressed his desire for a smooth transition. Thoughtfully, he proposed the idea of a severance package to help him during his job search period. His supervisor appreciated his dedication and contributions, and after a constructive discussion, they agreed on a reasonable severance package that would provide financial support. His professionalism and proactive approach played a significant role in securing a beneficial outcome during this transitional phase. How to ask for more severance? This is a copy of the email that I used during my resignation several years back. This would give some idea of how to request severance. During my time at the company, I've consistently gone above and beyond my responsibilities to ensure the success of projects and contribute positively to the team. My dedication is reflected in the [specific accomplishments or initiatives] that I've led and the positive feedback I've received from colleagues and clients. Considering my track record and the value I've added, I believe that a more substantial severance package would provide me with the financial support I need during this transitional period. It would also be a fair recognition of my commitment and the contributions I've made to the company's growth. I'm confident that a mutually beneficial arrangement can be reached, taking into account my dedication and the positive impact I've had on the organization. Severance Package Letter Sample [Date] Dear [HR's Name], I hope you're well. I'm writing to discuss the terms of my departure from [company name] and to explore the possibility of negotiating a fair severance package. With my role ending due to [reason for layoff], I believe a well-considered arrangement can benefit both parties. Considering my [number of years] of service and the positive impact I've had, I'd like to discuss including the following points in the package: A severance payment reflecting my contributions An extension of benefits coverage for a smooth transition Support for my job search efforts, such as career counseling or networking opportunities I understand company policies and current circumstances play a role. However, a balanced package would reflect the company's commitment to employees' well-being and continued success. I'm open to discussing these matters further to reach a fair resolution that benefits both sides. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you to discuss the next steps. Sincerely, [Your Name] FAQs on Typical Severance Package How much severance pay after 5 years? If you've been with the company for about 5 years, you can find your average severance pay by multiplying the number of years worked by [1-2 weeks] of your regular pay. For instance, with a yearly salary of $100,000, your 2 weeks' pay would be approximately $3,846. Therefore, if you've been part of the company for 5 years, your severance pay might come to $19,230 ($3,846 multiplied by 5 years), assuming there's no mentioned cap in the severance package offer. Additionally, you may receive other benefits outlined in the severance notice. Next: H1B Grace Period and Severance pay Related Posts ✔ How to apply for H4 EAD ✔ H1B to J2 Change of Status Related Topics

In this blog, I will explain how to find a postdoc position or postdoctoral fellowship in the USA. There are multiple ways to find a postdoc position in the USA, and this post will help you understand the process briefly. Before we start, let me provide a brief introduction about myself. I found a postdoc position at the University of California in the USA. Before landing this postdoc position, I completed my Ph.D. in South Korea and my Master's in India. Table of Contents: Postdoc Position USA How to find a postdoc position (USA) Postdoc interview process Hiring Process Postdoc salary Postdoc visa type How to Find Postdoc Positions (USA) These are the most successful ways to find postdoc positions in the USA: University Website: One of the most common methods is to visit the websites of universities you are interested in. For example, if you are interested in UCSD (University of California, San Diego), you can go to the UCSD website and search for research positions. Job Portals: Another way is to use job portals like Science Careers, Nature Careers, HigherEdJobs, and PostdocJobs where you can find postdoctoral job opportunities and follow the instructions provided. Professor's Lab Websites: Sometimes, not all jobs are posted on job websites. Certain professors have their lab websites listing the job openings, so it's essential to check those too. You might also find the same job postings on university or institute websites. Email Directly: Another effective approach is to email professors directly. You can often find their email addresses on LinkedIn or within the job description. When reaching out, make sure to personalize your email, briefly introduce yourself, highlight your research background, and explain why you are interested in their work. Current Academic Network: Leverage your Ph.D. advisor and committee members for recommendations. They can often connect you with colleagues or provide valuable advice on where to apply. It's best to do your homework and determine which universities or labs you're interested in. Keep an eye on their job listings and apply regularly. Identify potential advisors whose research aligns with your interests by reading their recent publications. Tailor your email to highlight how your skills and interests match their work. When I applied for my first postdoc, the job was posted on the institute's website. There, I found the professor's email address, and they requested that I send my resume/CV. I was interested in the ongoing projects in the lab, which motivated me to apply. However, there are other methods as well. Some individuals apply for their funding with a professor in the US and then join the lab if the funding is approved. Occasionally, two international professors have collaborations, offering an opportunity to come to the US. There are various paths to explore, but I'm sharing the simplest approach based on my experience. In most cases, when applying for a postdoc position in the US, you'll be required to email your CV directly to the professor. Therefore, you should compose a well-crafted cover letter, attach your CV, and send it to the PI. Postdoc Interview Process The postdoc interview process can vary depending on the institution and the PI leading the lab. However, these are the common things you can expect: Application Review: First, the PI reviews your submitted application, including your CV, cover letter, research statement, and letters of recommendation, and assesses your qualifications, research experience, and fit with the lab's current projects. First Contact: If the professor finds your CV suitable for the position, he will arrange an interview for you. HR will send an email to discuss your availability. Interview: This is often a phone or video interview (e.g., Zoom, Skype). During the interview, the PI might request a presentation of your Ph.D. or previous postdoc work. Occasionally, there could be one-on-one interviews with the professor, followed by presenting your prior work to the lab. Alternatively, you might give a direct presentation to all lab members. The format depends entirely on the professor's preference. Offer: If selected, you will receive a formal offer, which includes details about the salary, benefits, start date, and any other conditions to review and sign. Postdoc Hiring Process If your interview goes well and the professor is interested in hiring you, you will likely receive an email within a week or two from HR to initiate the hiring process. In summary, the postdoc hiring process involves: Receiving an offer letter for signing Obtaining a DS-2019 form Receiving instructions for paying the SEVIS fee Getting guidance for completing the DS-160 form Receiving details for scheduling an interview/biometric date Obtaining information on getting the visa Following other necessary steps Here is a sample SEVIS fee structure. Please note that the SEVIS fee amount may change in the future, refer to the USCIS website for the latest updates. Postdoc Salary in the USA The average postdoc salary in the USA is $60,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start as low as $47,000, while more experienced postdocs could earn up to $79,000 annually. Salaries can vary significantly from university to university and even across different states in the US. You can typically find the salary scale on the university's website. For example, the University of California, Riverside salary scale looks like the following. Other Benefits You also receive additional benefits, such as health insurance for your family, housing, and reduced-rate daycare facilities for children, among others. These benefits will vary for each university or institute. Postdoc Visa Type (USA) Most likely, you will receive a J1 visa and be subject to the 2-year home residency rule, also known as the 212e rule. I have written a blog about the J1 visa, the 212e rule, and how to obtain a waiver from the 212e rule, which we will discuss in upcoming blogs. However, there are instances where they might sponsor an academic H1B visa instead of a J1 visa. The decision to grant you a J1 visa or academic H1B will depend on your university's or institute's international office. That's all for this blog. Next, we will discuss the eligibility and requirements for a J1 visa. Please feel free to drop me a line in the comments section below and I will try to answer your queries. Also, if you found any of these blogs helpful, please consider donating. Readers like you encourage me to write daily. Next: Eligibility and requirements Related Posts ✔ Go to Main Menu ✔ B1/B2 visa for parents ✔ How long can I stay after my J1 visa expires? Related Topics