The H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant work visa for foreign nationals employed in specialty occupations—positions that typically require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field (e.g., IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, etc.). It is employer-sponsored and subject to annual caps.
Job must be in a specialty occupation
Applicant must have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field
Employer must pay the prevailing wage
Cap-subject H-1Bs must go through a lottery (except for cap-exempt institutions)
Valid job offer from a U.S. employer
Proof of educational qualifications (degree evaluation if foreign)
Detailed job description
Labor Condition Application (LCA) approved by DOL
Form I-129 and H classification supplement
Passport, resume, and prior immigration documents (if applicable)
Regular Processing: 4–6 months
Premium Processing: 15 calendar days (with an additional fee)
Base Filing Fee: $460 (Form I-129)
ACWIA Fee: $750–$1,500 (depending on employer size)
Fraud Prevention Fee: $500
Premium Processing (optional): $2,805
(Employer usually pays fees)
