This is a brief summary of the process of hiring foreign nationals.
Step one: The hiring department sends the immigration pre-process survey to askimmigration@uams.edu, or contacts the Immigration Services Office by phone or email to request an immigration consultation appointment.
Step two: After reviewing the immigration pre-process survey or conducting the immigration consultation with the prospective foreign national employee, Immigration Services Office determines the appropriate visa type. The hiring department needs to open case with the Immigration Services Office for H-1B or J-1 process but not for all other visa type cases.
Step three: The hiring department might assist in some steps, such as submitting export control form, requesting checks or sending the immigration documents to the foreign nationals. The foreign national employee submits a questionnaire and uploads documents as requested. After collecting all the necessary information and documents, the Immigration Services Office prepare and file the petitions or create the immigration documents needed by the foreign national.
Step four: After the case is approved or the immigration documents are created, the Immigration Services Office notifies the hiring department to pick up the documents to send them to the foreign national. If the foreign national is outside the US, they have to use the documents to apply for a visa stamp to enter the U.S.
Step five: The hiring department helps communicating with the recruiter, the Immigration Services Office and the foreign national to make sure a smooth onboarding process before they start the employment at UAMS.
The Immigration Services Office’s processing time
H-1B: 60 days before filing the petition to USCIS
J-1 Research Scholar: 45 days before issuing the new J-1 packet
J-1 Alien Physician (Residents/Fellows): 30 days before filing the request to ECFMG
Please be aware that the above processing times are a general estimate, subject to change and might take longer during busy seasons.