What Is an H-1B Visa?

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa for foreign professionals in specialty occupations. It is one of the most sought-after work visas in the United States.

Requirements:

Specialty occupation — The job must require at least a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a specific field. Common fields include IT, engineering, finance, architecture, science, and medicine.

Qualified worker — You must hold the required degree or have equivalent work experience.

Employer sponsorship — A U.S. employer must sponsor you. You cannot self-petition.

Labor Condition Application (LCA) — The employer must file an LCA with the Department of Labor, attesting to paying the prevailing wage.

Annual cap and lottery:

65,000 visas for regular applicants.

20,000 additional visas for applicants with U.S. master's degrees or higher.

When applications exceed the cap, USCIS conducts a random lottery.

Cap-exempt employers (universities, research institutions, nonprofits) are not subject to the cap.

Duration. Initially granted for up to 3 years, extendable to a maximum of 6 years. Extensions beyond 6 years may be possible if a green card petition is pending.

Key features:

Dual intent — H-1B holders can pursue permanent residence (green card) simultaneously.

Portability — You can change employers. The new employer files a new H-1B petition, and you can begin work upon filing.

Dependents — Spouse and children under 21 can come on H-4 visas. H-4 spouses may be eligible for work authorization in certain circumstances.

This is legal information, not legal advice.