H1B Transfer - BCIS asked me to produce my original degree and transcripts

[sdevarap]

Hi,

I have switched to a new company recently and they have applied for premium processing of my H1.

But 2 days back I was informed that BCIS(formerly INS) asked to produce my original degree and transcripts from my university in India for processing my H1-B.

I was told by my attorney that BCIS may not return my original documents for which I was shocked.

I did not know what to do. As I did not have any option I have submitted my originals hoping that everything goes well and I will get them back.

I just want to know if anybody ever heard of this type of issue and if so, please let me know what may happen in my case.

Will I get my originals back? Is my H1-B going to be rejected?

Is it legal for BCIS to retain my original certificates and not return them to me?

I would sincerely thank anybody who can provide any information regarding this issue.

Thanks
Sreekanth.

 

[jaxen]

I think the lawyer is playing a hooky on you. A certified copy from your lawyer is sufficient.

 

[parshu]

Hi,

I got a similar RFE for my I-140.Original Degree and Transcripts from bachelor's degree. I laminated all the originals(at Kinkos) and my lawyer made sure that I got them back. I got back the originals from INS within one week of the approval.

After I sent the originals some people said INS dont accept any thing which is laminated, In my case I know it worked but not sure about the information.

I am just trying to make a point that INS/BCIS does return the originals..

I am not a lawyer so use the info at ur own risk.

 

[sdevarap]

Thanks for the Info

Hi,

Thank You for sharing your experience.

That gives me confidence that I will get back my certificates.

I will just wait and see as I have already sent my certificates to BCIS.

I will let you guys know what has happened. It should take probably 2 or 3 weeks as it is Premium processing.

But, please do post any cases that you come across of similar nature..

Thanks
Sreekanth.