H1-B Visa for the USA - ESTAForm.org

H1-B for Speciality Occupation

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Graduate level workers wanting to work in the US are able to apply for a H1-B visa for speciality occupations. This enables US companies to employ foreign skilled workers for in-demand jobs such as in IT, medicine, finance, engineering and numerous other speciality occupations that are highly valued in the US. H1-B visas are valid for three years, with extensions possible, providing that the terms are still valid, i.e. you are still working in the role.
In some circumstances, work experience or alternative qualifications to a degree can be considered when granting a H1-B visa for speciality occupations. Applications for the H1-B visa are limited, which makes it more difficult to get one granted. Each year just 85,000 new H1-B visas are available for US companies to apply for, in line with current immigration laws.

Which jobs are classed as speciality occupations?

The job must have a minimum requirement for a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent). This requirement must be common
to the industry and where the job can only be performed by a graduate.

Who can apply?

  • People who have a US bachelor’s degree or higher degree that is required by the speciality occupation you are applying for.
  • Anyone with a foreign degree that is classed as the equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree, when required for the speciality occupation.
  • If you have education or experience that is equivalent to a degree that demonstrate your expertise in the speciality occupation.

Taking your family and dependants

If you successfully get granted a H-1B visa, then you will also currently be eligible to take your spouse and children (aged under 21) to live with you whilst you work in your speciality occupation in the US. They will be granted H-4 visas, which will enable children to attend schools.
The US Department of Homeland Security has been reviewing the H4 visa and spouse employment eligibility, so it is important to check the latest information regarding this before applying for a H-1B visa.
Green Cards
It is worth noting that H1-B holders are also able to apply for a Green Card such as EB2 or EB3. These are intended for people that have developed an even more valuable set of skills during their work whilst holding their H1-B visas.
The H1-B application process
The first step is to find a H1-B sponsor that is employing for the role that you have the required degree in. If you are successful in your job application, then the company will submit a Labor Conditions Approval (LCA) to the government.
If the LCA is approved, then the employer will then complete a Form I-129 which is a Petition for a Non-immigrant Worker (this can take a while to get processed). Once this is approved, the applicant must attend the their home country’s US embassy to process their visa.

Written by Abisola Fikayomi

Abisola is an accomplished writer interested in US Travel, immigration, passports and visas. She’s passionate about exploring new places and cultures and willing to share her experiences, expertize and findings with others. That is her primary drive for specialising in this industry.

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