Skilled Professional Work Visa
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Learn about eligibility, application process, and requirements.
What is H-1B Visa?
Understanding the USA H-1B Work Visa Program
About H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa is designed for foreign professionals in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields such as in architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology, and the arts.
This visa category requires a bachelor's degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent work experience. The employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor before filing the H-1B petition.
Key Features:
- • Initial duration up to 3 years
- • Maximum total duration of 6 years
- • Annual cap of 65,000 visas
- • 20,000 additional for master's degree holders
Quick Facts
Eligibility Requirements
Check if you qualify for the H-1B visa
Education
Bachelor's degree or higher in the specialty occupation, or equivalent work experience (3 years of experience for each year of missing education).
Job Offer
Must have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation.
License Requirements
If the profession requires a state license, you must have the necessary license to practice in the field.
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to H-1B visa application
Job Offer
Secure a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your H-1B visa.
LCA Filing
Employer files Labor Condition Application with Department of Labor.
Petition Filing
Employer files Form I-129 with USCIS during the registration period.
Selection
If selected in lottery, USCIS processes the petition and issues approval.
Important Dates & Timeline
Key dates for H-1B visa application
Registration Period
Processing Timeline
Ready to Apply for H-1B Visa?
Our expert immigration consultants can guide you through the entire H-1B visa application process, from eligibility assessment to petition filing.