The USCIS has provided a memo outlining some procedural guidance for H-1b cap filings due in less than 2 weeks. The most notable information relates to the availability of premium processing. Premium processing can be done under one of three scenarios:
1. If the case filed includes a change of status (COS) request, a premium request can be filed concurrently with the petition and processing will begin no later than May 20th.
2. If the case filed includes a change of status (COS) request but, premium was not requested at the time of filing, an upgrade to premium processing can be filed when premium processing resumes, no later than May 20th.
3. If the case filed asks for Consular Processing/Notification (CP), an upgrade to premium processing can be filed only after it is announced of its availability by the USCIS and should not be expected prior to June 2019.
Other information regarding the establishment of an employer datahub to be available as of April 1st and a reminder about the new selection process was also described in detail in the memo.