H-1B is an employer-sponsored visa where they bring an employee to work for them in the United States. For this, one must file a petition for H-1B in the immigration department and complete the necessary paperwork. When the petition gets approved, you can legally work for your American employer and live in that country.
Despite being one of the most common visas people apply for every year, there is much misinformation about it on the internet. It is important that you know all the facts in order to avoid mistakes. Taking the help of a business immigration lawyer in Dallas can also facilitate things.
Quick facts about H-1B visa
- You need a bachelor’s degree for the H-1B visa.
H-1B is only issued for employees with jobs that require theoretical and practical application of knowledge. The worker must have at least a bachelor’s or an equivalent degree. The nature of the job should also be such that a person without the minimum education requirement cannot perform the tasks. The employer in Dallas also has to prove that there is no local citizen for that position available.
- Demand for H-1B is growing.
The demand for working in the USA has dramatically increased. The cap for the applications reached its peak within seven days after the opening of the window. The number of applications in 2014 was 124,000, which increased to 398,267 in 2021. Since the demand is growing, and the visas are given out on a first-come, first-serve basis, it is recommended that you submit your application as soon as possible.
- There is a limited number of visas.
Yes, there is a limited quota on how many H-1B visas are given out each year. The annual numerical limit for the H-1B visa for working in the US is 65,000. Additional 20,000 visas are given to people who have completed their master’s degree education from a US university. However, this cap is subject to change by the USCIS.
- You cannot stay more than six years in the US on an H-1B visa.
When you get approved for an H-1B visa, you can work in the USA for three years. Later, you can request an extension of three years. You cannot stay in the US on an H-1B visa for more than a period of 6 years. After this period is over, you may have to apply for the visa again. An attorney can help you understand your options after your visa period ends.
