H-1B Specialty Occupation
United States
Last updated: December 29, 2025
6 years (renewable)
$100,000
6-9 months
High
About this Visa
The H-1B is a work visa for skilled professionals. You work for a specific employer for up to 6 years. This visa is different because your employer must sponsor you—you cannot apply on your own. To qualify, you need a college degree or higher in your field. Your job must require someone with advanced education. Most H-1B workers are in technology, engineering, accounting, healthcare, or consulting. This visa lets you work and live in the U.S. You can eventually apply for permanent residency (green card) while on H-1B status.
Key Benefits
- Work legally in specialty occupation job
- Travel outside U.S. and return without losing visa
- Change jobs after 6+ months employment
- Bring spouse to live with you (spouse can work if green card pending)
- Bring children under 21 to live with you
- Apply for green card while staying on H-1B status
- Stay 6 years in U.S. legally
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have bachelor's degree or higher in your field
- Must have work experience showing ability to do the job
- Must have job offer from U.S. employer willing to sponsor
- Cannot have serious criminal convictions
- Cannot have serious health problems that spread to others
- Job must require college degree as standard entry requirement
- Job must be complex enough that only degree-holders can do it
- Cannot apply without employer sponsorship
- Cannot work as independent contractor or consultant
Financial Requirement
Employer must pay prevailing wage (typically $60,000+/year, often $80,000-$150,000+ depending on job and location). Proof of payment ability required.
Documents
- Valid passportPassport valid for 6+ months
- Bachelor's degree or higherDiploma and transcripts from accredited institution
- ResumeEducation and work experience documentation
- Professional certificationsRequired for your specific job
- Police recordsVaries by country; check with your consulate
- Job offer letterFrom U.S. employer with position details and salary
- Employer business documentsBusiness license, tax records, proof of ability to pay
- Labor certificationFrom Department of Labor
- Proof of home country tiesProperty deed, family documentation, bank accounts
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.