Somehow miracle happens and I got the favorable recommendation from DOS yesterday.
This also suggests that the waiver review division is not affected by the partial government shutdown.
Here are some extra info (not sure if it affects the processing time):
1) Mine was on no objection basis, and I am from Malaysia.
2) I am currently working as a post-doc in the USA, and my current J1 visa will expire on 18 Jan 2019 (ya, that was close).
This means that I can simply use the DOS recommendation letter (i.e. no need to wait for final waiver approval from USCIS) to apply for H1b.
3) My employer is going (and eligible) to apply H1b premium processing, which means that we will know the outcome within 14 calendar days.
4) I have been emailing the 212waiver@state.gov several times explaining possible consequences for not be able to submit new visa application in time (waste of taxpayers money because my research project is NIH-funded etc)
5) I actually emailed to ask help from a local congressman yesterday, but not sure if that's the reason to get the DOS recommendation (that will be too fast though)
Hope the fast processing of my case will give a boost to some of you who are still waiting for the DOS recommendation.
Also, thanks a lot for those who provide suggestion/answer to my inquiries - I really appreciate it.
Good luck guys and let me know if you have any questions
(I will try my best to answer the questions, as I have received many constructive suggestions in this forum)
According to the Department of State contingency plan presented in January 2018:
"C. Consular Operations Domestically and Abroad: Consular operations domestically and abroad will remain 100% operational as long as there are sufficient fees to support operations. However, if a passport agency is located in a government building affected by a lapse in appropriations, the facility may become unsupported. The continuance of consular operations in such instances will be treated on a case-by-case basis by the Office of the Under Secretary for Management." (here: https://www.state.gov/m/2018/277533.htm)
The Waiver Review Division is part of the "CA/VO/DO/W", meaning: Consular Affairs, Visa Operations, Domestic Operations, Waivers. So I would assume the operations remain at 100% levels. I've emailed the Waiver Review Division to see if their operations are being affected. I'll post the response here one I get it.
EB2NIW2019 got a reaction from JWaiver_2019 in 2018 J1 WAIVER TIMELINE