Transfer guides · Updated June 2026 · 5 min read

Premium Processing for H-1B Transfers: Cost & Timeline for Employers

Should employers use premium processing for H-1B change of employer? USCIS fees, 15-day timeline, and when it makes sense for hiring.

Premium processing requests USCIS to adjudicate an eligible petition within 15 business days (or issue a RFE, notice of intent to deny, or other action). For change-of-employer cases with a hard start date, employers often elect premium after the I-129 is ready to file.

Cost breakdown (employer budget)

h1bfiling.com filing service: $2,999 (LCA + I-129 prep, lawyer review)
USCIS base filing fee: paid to USCIS (amount set by USCIS fee rule)
USCIS premium processing fee: paid to USCIS in addition to base fee
Anti-fraud fee and other USCIS fees may apply depending on case type

Sample timeline with premium

Week 1–2: Document intake and LCA filing
Week 2–3: LCA certified, I-129 assembled
Week 3: Filed with USCIS + premium elected
Week 4–5: Receipt, then approval within 15 business days on premium clock

Premium does not speed up DOL LCA certification — only USCIS adjudication. Build LCA time into hiring plans regardless of premium.

File a transfer with counsel

We prepare the petition; your team elects premium at USCIS filing when timing requires it.

See filing pricing

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently — consult qualified counsel for your case.