An H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States that allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. These occupations typically require a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field and involve the theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge. The visa is employer-sponsored, meaning a U.S. employer must file a petition on behalf of the foreign worker. The initial visa is typically granted for three years and can be extended up to six years. The H-1B visa also allows dual intent, enabling holders to pursue permanent residency (a green card) while staying on the visa. Key features include:
- Specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- Employer sponsorship required.
- An annual cap on the number of new H-1B visas issued, with a lottery system if demand exceeds the cap.
- The visa holder must maintain employment with the sponsoring employer.
- A pathway to permanent residency is possible but requires a separate process.
The H-1B visa is widely used in fields like technology, engineering, medicine, and sciences to fill specialized job roles in the U.S. labor market.
