H-1B
The most common US work visa for professionals in specialty occupations, from software engineers to financial analysts. Employer-sponsored, lottery-based, and valid for up to 6 years.
The H-1B is the workhorse of US employment-based immigration. It lets US employers hire foreign professionals in 'specialty occupations', roles that require at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a specific field. Think software development, data science, finance, architecture, medicine, and more.
The catch? There's an annual cap of 85,000 visas (65,000 regular + 20,000 for US master's degree holders), and demand far exceeds supply. USCIS runs a lottery each spring, and in recent years only about 25–30% of registrants are selected. If you're picked, your employer files the full petition and you can start working from October 1.
Despite the lottery, the H-1B remains hugely popular because it offers a direct pathway to a green card. Many H-1B holders transition to EB-2 or EB-3 immigrant visas while working, making it a stepping stone to permanent residency.
Who is it for?
The H-1B is ideal for professionals who have a job offer from a US employer in a role that requires specialised knowledge. This includes engineers, developers, analysts, accountants, consultants, designers, and many other roles across virtually every industry.
You'll need at least a bachelor's degree (or foreign equivalent) that's directly related to your job. If your degree doesn't perfectly match, you may still qualify through a combination of education and work experience. Your employer handles most of the process and covers the filing fees.
What are the requirements
Job in a Specialty Occupation
The role must require at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a specific field. Generic roles that don't need specialised education won't qualify.
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
You need a US bachelor's degree (or foreign equivalent) in a field directly related to the job. A combination of education and progressive work experience may also qualify.
Employer Sponsorship
A US employer must sponsor and file the petition on your behalf, including obtaining a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the Department of Labor.
Lottery Selection
For cap-subject positions, your employer must register you in the annual H-1B lottery (March). Selection is required before the full petition can be filed.
Visa Timeline
Concord Processing Time
Premium Processing Time
USCIS Processing Time
Your employer registers you in the annual H-1B lottery during the March registration period. Each registration costs $215 (as of FY2026).
March (annual window)
If selected, your employer files a Labor Condition Application with the DOL, certifying wage and working conditions. This typically takes 7–10 days.
1–2 weeks
Your employer files Form I-129 with USCIS along with all supporting documents, degree evaluations, offer letter, LCA, and company details.
1–2 weeks
October 1 start
October 1 start
~6–9 months (lottery to start date)
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