Advantages
The H-1B visa provides skilled professionals with a valuable opportunity to work in the United States and offers U.S. companies access to global talent.
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H-1B Visa
Attention Specialty Occupation Professionals - Get a FREE H-1B Evaluation
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H-1B Visa - Skilled Workers & Professionals
For foreign professionals in specialty occupations requiring specialized knowledge
The H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. It is widely used by tech firms, finance companies, and universities to hire professionals such as engineers, scientists, and analysts.
The visa is granted for an initial period of up to 3 years, with the possibility of a 3-year extension.
Dual Intent
Allows you to pursue a green card while working in the U.S.
Work for a U.S. Employer
Legally work in the U.S. for a sponsoring employer in your specialty occupation.
Spouse & Children
Dependents can accompany the primary applicant under H-4 status.
Portability
You may transfer to a new employer with proper documentation.
Applicant Requirements
To qualify for an H-1B visa, the applicant and sponsoring employer must meet specific requirements.
01
Specialty Occupation
• Position must require a bachelor's degree or higher
• Field must involve specialized knowledge
• Common fields: IT, engineering, finance, healthcare
• Field must involve specialized knowledge
• Common fields: IT, engineering, finance, healthcare
02
Qualified Employee
• Applicant must have a relevant degree or equivalent
• Foreign degrees must be evaluated for equivalency
• Prior work experience may be used in some cases
• Foreign degrees must be evaluated for equivalency
• Prior work experience may be used in some cases
03
U.S. Employer Sponsorship
• Must offer a full-time job in a specialty occupation
• Must pay prevailing wage
• Must file Labor Condition Application with the Department of Labor
• Must pay prevailing wage
• Must file Labor Condition Application with the Department of Labor
Timelines
The H-1B visa process is subject to strict annual quotas and deadlines. Timelines vary depending on whether you’re applying during the lottery or via cap-exempt routes.
H-1B Lottery Window
March – April (annual cap season)
USCIS Processing Time
2–8 months (standard), 15 days (premium)
Visa Validity
3 years initially, extendable to 6 years total
Comparison with Other Visas
Here’s how the H-1B compares to other popular employment-based visas.
| Criteria | H-1B | O-1A | EB-2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| For whom | Professionals in specialty occupations | Individuals with extraordinary ability | Professionals with advanced degrees or national interest |
| Status Type | Temporary (Nonimmigrant) | Temporary (Nonimmigrant) | Permanent (Green Card) |
| Employer Required | Yes | Yes | Yes (except self-petitioned NIW) |
| Premium Processing | Available | Available | Available |
| Duration | Up to 6 years | Indefinitely renewable | Permanent |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are common questions related to the H-1B visa process and requirements.
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How many H-1B visas are available each year?There is an annual cap of 65,000 H-1B visas, with an additional 20,000 for those with U.S. master's degrees or higher.
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Can I bring my spouse and children?Yes, they can apply for H-4 status. Spouses can apply for work authorization if the H-1B holder is in the green card process.
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Can I change jobs while on an H-1B?Yes, you can transfer your H-1B to a new employer. A new petition must be filed, but you may begin working once USCIS issues a receipt notice.
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Does H-1B lead to a green card?Yes. The H-1B allows dual intent, and your employer can sponsor you for permanent residency through the EB-2 or EB-3 process.
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Is premium processing available?Yes. USCIS offers 15-day premium processing for H-1B petitions for an additional fee.
Attention Specialty Occupation Professionals - Get a FREE H-1B Evaluation
A US Immigration Attorneys will examine, evaluate and advise next steps for your case with in 2 business days.