An H-1B lottery winner has been left shocked after the USCIS denied their petition, despite a successful RFE response from their employer. The decision has thrown their job security and immigration status into uncertainty.
Sudden Denial After Approval Steps
The applicant, currently on a valid F-1 visa until August 2026, had expected approval after submitting the requested evidence. However, the unexpected denial has halted their work plans and placed their future in jeopardy.
No Official Notice, No Appeal
The applicant has not yet received the official denial notice. Without it, their legal team cannot file a Motion to Reopen (MTR) or an appeal. This delay leaves them with no clarity about the reason behind the rejection.
Expert Opinions Remain Divided
Immigration experts are split on the matter. Some believe the applicant should prepare to return home soon, while others think the case may still be salvageable if a detailed MTR is filed once the notice arrives.
Narrow Chance for Reversal
Legal advisers warn that reversing a denial is rare and depends entirely on the applicant’s credentials and the strength of their employer’s filing. They stress that the statutory window for cap-based refiling is now officially closed.
Harsh Reality of the System
This situation reflects the rigid and unpredictable nature of the US immigration process. For many foreign students, one decision from USCIS can instantly end years of effort toward building a career in America.
Hope Amid Confusion
Some applicants have reported that similar denials were technical errors. In certain cases, the system incorrectly marked a case as “denied” when it could not process complex petition data. Yet, without proper communication, the applicant remains uncertain and anxious.
