H-1B Specialty Occupation
United States
Last updated: December 29, 2025
3 years (renewable)
$100,000
6-9 months
High
About this Visa
The H-1B visa lets you work in the United States for a U.S. company. You must have a bachelor's degree in a specialized field like technology, engineering, healthcare, or finance. Your employer applies for you—you cannot apply on your own. This visa is for skilled workers, not entry-level jobs. The visa lets you work legally in the U.S. for up to 6 years. Your family can come with you. You can apply for permanent residency (green card) while on this visa. It's different from most other work visas because it has a lottery system. Hundreds of thousands of people apply each year, but only 85,000 get selected.
Key Benefits
- Work legally in the U.S. for up to 6 years
- Bring spouse and children under 21
- Spouse can get work permission in U.S.
- Travel in and out of U.S. freely
- Apply for green card anytime
- Switch jobs with new petition
- No medical exam required
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor's degree minimum or equivalent
- Job must require a bachelor's degree
- Clean background check - no serious crimes
- U.S. employer must sponsor you
- No immigration fraud or false documents
- Job must be in United States
- Previous visas must be in good standing
Financial Requirement
Your employer must pay you at least the prevailing wage for your job and location. No minimum income requirement for you, but the company must prove it can afford to pay you.
Documents
- PassportValid 6+ months beyond stay
- Bachelor's degreeFrom your country
- Credential evaluationProof your degree equals U.S. bachelor's
- Resume and referencesWork experience documentation
- Job offer letterFrom U.S. employer with position details
- PhotosMeeting U.S. standards
- Bank statementsShowing financial support
- Employer tax returnsProof of employer financial capability
- Medical credentialsFor doctors: License, USMLE scores, ECFMG certificate
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.