Quick Definition
A Notice of Action (Form I-797) is a USCIS document confirming receipt, approval, or denial of an immigration petition or application. The I-797 approval notice for an H-1B petition is proof of approved status and must be retained. Receipt notices (I-797C) are issued when USCIS receives your application.
Notice of Action (I-797) — Full Explanation
Types: I-797A (approval, includes I-94 for COS), I-797B (approval, no I-94 for consular processing), I-797C (receipt/rejection notice). OPT applicants receive I-797C receipt notices when USCIS processes Form I-765.
Country Relevance
USA
AS
Written & reviewed by
Arjun SinghAcademic Counsellor — Test Prep & Complex Profiles
Frequently Asked Questions
For OPT: you can continue working during the 180-day cap-gap period on a receipt notice. For most other categories, you need the actual approval notice or EAD.
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