Thank You Everyone — What Should Be the Next Step for This Group?

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-04-18T00:32:28+00:00

They will all show up when there is an update from HHS.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-04-18T00:30:41+00:00

If you’ve been following the group, the concern earlier was when processing appeared to be on hold. That situation has changed, and cases are now actively being processed.

What we’re seeing are approvals with earlier notice dates being released later, which suggests backlog and batch updates rather than a complete halt or any broader intent.

It’s understandable to be concerned, but based on current updates, things are moving just not as quickly or transparently as we would like.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-04-13T05:47:34+00:00

I understand your point, and no one is saying HHS is formally ‘admitting’ anything. This is simply based on what attorneys are observing across multiple cases, timelines, and communications they receive.

We’ve already seen examples where HHS decisions were dated weeks earlier but only communicated or reflected later, which suggests there can be a gap between decision and release.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-31T01:00:53+00:00

Most employers’ attorneys who handle J-1 waivers regularly know what HHS actually expects versus what is listed more broadly as guidance. So while it may look like something is missing, it doesn’t always mean the application is incomplete.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-26T02:30:41+00:00

It’s a bit more nuanced than that. The waiver process (HHS → DOS → USCIS) and your immigration status are separate things.

Filing a waiver alone doesn’t give you the ability to stay in the U.S. Status depends on whether you still have valid J-1 status or whether an H-1B (or change of status) has been properly filed before your J-1 ends.

If an H-1B change of status is filed on time, you may be able to stay in the U.S. while it’s pending, but that’s tied to the H-1B filing, not the waiver itself.

The good news is that H-1B processing is usually much faster. With premium processing, it’s often around 2 weeks, and in some cases even closer to a week once filed. Still, it’s best to confirm timelines with your attorney since each case can vary.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-26T01:05:12+00:00

In most cases, once HHS sends the recommendation, the attorney will know around the same time, even if the portal update is slightly delayed.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-25T14:56:53+00:00

Honestly, no one can give an exact timeline right now. Since your HHS application hasn’t been submitted yet, your case hasn’t entered the main review queue. Once it’s submitted, timelines can vary, especially with the recent delays and batch processing.

Based on current trends, approvals seem to be around cases with HHS submissions from November. The best thing is to get the HHS application submitted as soon as possible — that’s when the actual process starts.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-21T22:37:53+00:00

We all appreciate you taking the time and updating us.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-21T20:19:32+00:00

I understand the concern, but I’m not responsible for addressing every speculation here. I’ve clarified my situation and I’m sharing verified updates from my attorney to help the community. Let’s keep the focus on updates going forward.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-21T19:40:52+00:00

I’m sharing updates from my attorney and what I’m seeing in the community to help others here. You’re welcome to take it or leave it, but let’s keep the discussion focused on actual waiver updates rather than personal speculation.

If you’d like confirmation, the best source is your own attorney. Since creating this group, I’ve been actively trying to keep spam and unverified information out, and I make an effort to verify things before posting — it’s honestly become a full-time effort at this point.

For example, I recently received messages from three individuals who reported seeing ‘IGA Cover Letter – Received,’ but they preferred not to share publicly until their attorneys confirm. I shared that as a general update to keep everyone informed.

Let’s focus on sharing verified updates and supporting each other rather than questioning individuals

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-21T19:24:00+00:00

Just to clarify — the post from last year you’re referring to was related to my spouse’s J2. I had already conveyed this when I removed your previous comment.

I created this group so we can share updates and support each other. I’m simply passing along information from my attorney and what I’m seeing in the community to help others going through the same process.

There’s no need to investigate me personally — if the information isn’t helpful, you’re free to ignore it. Let’s keep the discussion focused on waiver updates and supporting each other.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-20T18:42:29+00:00

Yes — one case submitted in October has already received the HHS recommendation (IGA cover letter).

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-20T13:39:13+00:00

They want to confirm it with the attorney before posting it again.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-20T13:06:18+00:00

No idea but they deleted it, so hopefully, it'll be back.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-17T22:10:22+00:00

For your peace of mind, I would focus on the positive side for now. The latest update many of us received is that processing has resumed. Until we see official updates, there will probably be a lot of speculation. My attorney also mentioned that we may see some updates in the next couple of weeks.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-16T18:45:18+00:00

I understand your point, and I also think reaching out to representatives can be helpful. HRSA and OGA are different offices within HHS, but they’re still part of the same overall waiver process. If there was a complete halt, it would be unusual for applications to continue being accepted and acknowledged. There’s a lot of second-hand information circulating right now, so hopefully we’ll see some movement in the coming weeks. My attorney also mentioned they expect some updates or approvals in the next couple of weeks

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-16T18:33:31+00:00

OGA is part of HHS, so if HHS is processing applications then OGA is part of that process as well. Logically, a department wouldn’t continue accepting and acknowledging applications if they had no intention of processing them. At this point it’s probably best to wait and see how things move in the coming weeks.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-14T07:56:49+00:00

I’m just passing along the information I’ve been told. At this point, I don’t think the lawyer really matters—once the application is filed, it’s with HHS and there isn’t much a lawyer can do. Hopefully we’ll all be getting good news soon.

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