H1b specialty occupation lottery If the The H-1B is a visa in the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 101(a)(15)(H), that allows United States employers to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. H-1Bs are specific to the sponsoring employer, location, and job. The requirements for a specialty occupation are the same as an H1b visa. The One rule that remains in place but has had its implementation delayed is the replacement of the random H-1B lottery with one weighted toward higher-paying jobs. , not-for-profit The H-1B specialty occupation visa is a non-immigrant visa category that is vital for US companies, especially tech giants, to fill their ranks with skilled workers who possess specialized knowledge. These employers must participate in a lottery each year if the number of H1B petitions exceeds the cap, which often happens given the high demand for skilled foreign workers. S. We use the information provided during the electronic registration process to help us determine if a petition is subject to the congressionally mandated cap of 65,000 H-1B visas (commonly known as the “regular cap”) or the advanced degree exemption. Navigating the Aftermath of OPT Unemployment; The H-1B category is designated for temporary professionals to work in the U. Of those, 20,000 H-1B visas are available for individuals with a master’s degree or higher from a U. Premium Processing Clock Was Stopped For My Case on Aug-3rd and no update from USCIS from then for my H1b Extension. This selection is formally acknowledged through the USCIS Form I-797C, or Notice of Action, which signifies a successful lottery outcome and initiates the journey toward filing the H1B visa petition. There are several major types of changes in the recent USCIS proposal: one type would change the way the H-1B lottery is administered, so it would impact only those H-1B petitions subject to the lottery; another type of change would impact all H-1B petitions, including those from university and/or non-profit employers, and it would address the definition of The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a final rule with key updates to the H-1B specialty occupation nonimmigrant visa program. employers alike. This GMS Flash Alert examines three areas of concern the proposals attempt to address: modernize the H-1B program and increase efficiency; provide greater benefits and flexibilities for petitioners and H1B Specialty Occupation visas are a popular choice for skilled migrant workers and U. Send “Lottery” to out DM to register EARLY for the 2025 Specialty occupation visa lottery (H1B), you can save and be guaranteed an employer spots (those are limited) The The H1B Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U. employment-based immigration system, is set to begin in March 2025. Specialty Occupation: Ensure that the job offered under H-1B classification is a specialty occupation related to your field of study. I mailed my attorney and I was told that they are working on producing paper work to support my case that my role (Sr. This term is crucial for individuals applying for H-1B visas as it determines eligibility for the program. employers to augment the existing labor force with highly skilled temporary workers. Getting an H1B Visa is not easy. Learn about the H1B visa lottery and its potential influence on future TN visa eligibility. Current laws limit the annual number of qualifying foreign workers who may be issued an E-3 visa to 10,500 Australian nationals seeking temporary work in specialty occupations. The H-1B Visa's Basic Requirements. bachelor's degree in a specific field, the job duties are sufficiently complex to require at least a bachelor's “Specialty Occupations” for H-1B Visas. The H-1B visa is a temporary (nonimmigrant) visa designed for foreign professionals who wish to work in the United States in specialty occupations. Once the cap is reached, the lottery system selects The H1-B visa program is for employers wanting to hire foreign workers across various specialty occupations. As explained more fully in H-1B Visa to the U. International employees in specialty occupations typically need to register with USCIS and be selected in the lottery before applying for an H-1B visa. Obtaining H1B visas for foreign nationals has become more difficult under the current administration’s “Buy America, Hire American” executive order signed in April of 2017. Donald Trump may impose stricter immigration policies, while Kamala Harris could continue pro-immigration efforts seen under Biden. H-1B visas are subject to a cap and all cap applicants must be selected through the visa lottery before they will be allowed to apply for an H-1B Last Updated on: September 11, 2024 H1B Visas for Specialty Occupations, Temporary Work Visas. 335. There are a total of 85,000 visas available each year, including 20,000 slots reserved for candidates who earned a Master's degree or higher from a U. These measures aim to streamline the immigration system and attract global talent. A foreign worker can be in H-1B status for a maximum continuous period of six (6) years. These are jobs that require theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, typically in fields such as IT, engineering, mathematics, science, and healthcare. The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa in the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act section 101(a)(15)(H). Will fill a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation; E-3 Visa versus H1B Visa. The H1B visa lottery system will then randomly select the H1B visa petitions that can continue on to be reviewed by the USCIS. So now I just have to go activate my H1B at an embassy outside US. With us tonight is partner Flomy J. A specialty occupation is one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree o Rule will provide greater benefits and flexibilities for U. ” The proposed rule would change the way USCIS conducts the H-1B cap registration process (H-1B lottery). USCIS approves around 65,000 petitions per year starting from October 1 st to September 30 th of the following year. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) releases a cap on the number of H1B visas available. Congress caps the number of H-1Bs that can be issued annually at 85,000. Salaries don't matter for the lottery. 6. 819. employers to temporarily employ foreign professionals in positions classified as specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Eligibility Criteria. A 'specialty occupation' for an H-1B visa refers to a job that requires specialized knowledge and a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Eligibility: Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specialty occupation and a valid job offer from a U. Fulfilling Specialty Occupation Requirements: Lithuanian applicants must ensure H-1B Specialty Occupation Visas More Information About the Process of H-1B Visas Often, companies in the United States will want to employ foreign nationals in various occupations that require the theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge. Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer. It allows U. What is an H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa? An H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows foreign nationals with specialized skills to work in the United States for up to six years. 6,800 petitions are reserved for H1B1 visas for Chile and Singapore nationals, while the rest for H1B visas. Specialty Occupation: The job itself must meet the criteria of a specialty occupation, which necessitates theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge. This lottery determines which applicants may apply for an H-1B visa, a nonimmigrant status that allows U. US Arrive Podcast Episode 50: FY 2025 H1B Visa Lottery Discussion. Distinguished Merit. The time to start is now, and with pending program Continue reading "The Complete 2018 H1B Visa Guide" Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U. Finding more than one sponsor is not going to help you increase your chance of getting an H1B through the lottery anymore. Today, we’re excited to share the success story of Kirsten Stolz, who transitioned from an F1 student visa to an H1-B work visa with our guidance. So let’s take a tour of the new H-1B visa rules, h1b extension new rules, h1b specialty occupation new rules, etc. H1B visas are for specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher. H-1B is employer-specific and position-specific, and individual may only work for the employer who sponsors his/her status and only in the position set forth in the position. We have sent links to 100s of you already, if you didn’t receive it holla at us now. It is intended explicitly for roles challenging to fill with the local talent pool. +1 844 290 6312 (local rate) Mon - Sun, 8. Specialty Occupations. A critical decision for employers during the H1B cap filing process is determining which employees to enter in the H1B lottery. Individuals working in a specialty occupation may be eligible for H-1B status without being selected in the H-1B lottery if they are employed by a cap-exempt employer. The job must meet one of the following criteria to qualify as a specialty occupation under an H-1B visa: This is a work visa lottery that requires minimum HND or Bachelors Degree and it’s a 3-year work permit, renewable once (6 years in total) with thesame employer and a pathway to Green Card. Send “Lottery” if you want us to send you the link to get into the H1B specialty occupation Visa Lottery. It seems that most of the changes are to make it harder for people to get h1b On October 23, 2023, the U. H1B Eligibility The E-3 program allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers from Australia in the U. Step 1: Understand the H-1B Visa Lottery Basics. My lawyer sent me a list of things he wants me to gather for them to assemble an RFE response. The H1B Specialty occupation Visa Lottery opens on 6th of March 2024 and closes on 20th March 2024. It is an employer-sponsored nonimmigrant classification in which the employer files an H-1B petition on behalf of the prospective H-1B employee. To qualify for an H-1B visa, both the job position and the foreign worker must meet specific criteria: For the Employer: Specialty Occupation: The job offered must qualify as a “specialty occupation” requiring: By Sanwar Ali: The Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the H-1B Visa Lottery Process The H-1B visa is useful for skilled professionals worldwide with a job offer to gain entry to the United States. It brings a lot of benefits for their holders and even To be eligible for an H1B visa, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field, a job offer from a U. Dual Intent: H1B visa holders can pursue a green card without jeopardizing their non-immigrant status. Submit Full Petition if Selected: Employers of selected applicants file Form I-129 and related The H1-B category is for foreign employees coming to the United States to perform services in a specialty occupation or as a fashion model. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require Overview of the H1B Lottery System. Nearly 12% of H1B visas have been given to programmers in the past, and are those that typically replace US workers in the IT industry. A “specialty occupation” is defined as an occupation that requires a theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. If you were selected in the 2024-25 H-1B visa lottery, contact VisaNation attorneys for filing your H-1B petition. By tightening the definition of "specialty occupation" and strengthening program 3. The H-1B Visa allows these professionals to live and work in the Preparing for the H1B lottery and the visa application process requires careful planning. To qualify for an H-1B visa, the position must meet certain criteria such as requiring a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specific field of study. To be eligible for H-1B status, the H-1B worker must be employed in a specialty occupation. This lottery has traditionally occured in visas for professionals with specialty occupations. Fashion models can qualify for H-1B visas if they are of distinguished merit and ability. A specialty occupation is: H-1B Lottery. Evidence that the beneficiary is qualified to perform the specialty occupation. Even there isn't any notice received until now explaining the reason. 1247 Diversity Lottery. A Specialty occupation is defined as one that: Requires practical and theoretical application of highly specialized knowledge; Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification in the specialty or its Redefining “Specialty Occupation The proposed rule extends the period of time that F-1 students who have an H-1B registration selected in the lottery can remain in the United States. (THIS REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED TO ALLOW US COMPLETE THE PROCESS) JOIN WAITLIST If you have been registered in the pool, our team will send you proof of registration in 48-72 hours. not deny a petition if the new employer is legit/ the role qualifies on all the barometers of sponsorship particularly specialty E-3 Visa: Specialty Occupation Workers from Australia; H1B Visa: Temporary Worker Visa; H2A Visa: Temporary Agricultural Workers; Lottery Selection: USCIS conducts a random selection process to choose the petitions that will be processed for adjudication. 0. But in her case The specialty occupation must require a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree, or its foreign equivalent. It’s time to look at the H1-B Visa lottery season including H1-B registration, requirements, and potential changes. We can assist in assessing and enhancing your eligibility. Important: The lottery registration window for the FY 2025 H-1B cap season The annual H-1B Cap Lottery to award H-1B slots for professional workers in Dive Brief: The U. Immigration Quiz. the higher chance that individual will be selected in a lottery That lottery update was finalized in January ahead of the fiscal 2025 visa lottery. 5. After the initial selection process, USCIS determined that additional registrations were required to reach the cap, specifically in the regular cap (non-Master's cap). In a significant update, USCIS has announced a second round of the H1B visa lottery for Fiscal Year 2025. The H1-B Visa 2022-23 cap filing season is right around the corner. Firms and lawyers sort this out, not It’s an exploration into a realm where expertise meets the intricate lattice of regulatory frameworks. The proposed rule seeks to improve the H-1B program by streamlining eligibility requirements, enhancing program efficiency, providing greater benefits and Employers have submitted enough petitions for H-1B specialty occupation visas to reach the annual limit of 85,000 for fiscal year 2024, US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Wednesday. Duration: It is easy to let the time slip by, and if you are planning to apply for an H1B specialty occupation position for fiscal year 2018, you only have four months to complete all of the necessary steps before the annual lottery in April 2017. employer, and a prevailing wage determination. Each year, USCIS accepts petitions beginning April 1 until the cap is filled. Lottery System: A random selection process used when the demand for H-1B visas exceeds the annual cap. 737. USCIS has notified employers with selected registrations that they can move forward with visa petitions. E1 Visa as Treaty Trader; E2 Visa for investors and employees; E3 Visa for Australians in a Specialty Occupation; E2 and E1 Treaty Visa FAQ; US B1 in lieu of H1B visa; US H-1B visa for specialty workers. The H1B visa has an annual cap and a lottery system. Every year, U. Typical specialty occupations in the H1B visa category include: computer systems analysts and programmers, physicians, dentists, professors, engineers and accountants. 9204 . companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise, such as in IT, engineering, and other fields. This 1. H1B cap exempt guide for employers. Proposed regulations aim to change the lottery system and give workers The H1B visa worker must receive a job offer that falls under a qualified H1B visa specialty occupation (i. These proposals mark a pivotal shift towards a more flexible, skills-first approach, reflecting the evolving needs of the U. Participating in the H-1B lottery registration process requires prospective employees to meet specific criteria, including a job offer in a specialty occupation and the necessary educational qualifications. Specialty Occupation (H1B) Apr 12. When the cap is exceeded, and more registrations are received than are available, (which is the case most years), only those registrations that are randomly selected will be invited to Here are the following alternatives we recommend if you do not get selected in the H1b lottery. Why a Second Lottery? The second lottery was necessitated by the need to meet the FY 2025 H-1B numerical allocations. If you are selected in the H1B Visa lottery you then submit your H1B Visa application using Form 1-129. position. Employers should prepare for potential changes, as these decisions will Beyond the specialty occupation designation, prevailing wages, and LCA requirements, both the employer and the foreign national worker must meet certain criteria for H-1B visa eligibility. The main criticism of this new system (which, again, has had its implementation The H1B visa program was designed to allow skilled foreign nationals to enter the US if they have a US company offer a position and sponsor the visa petition. H-1B visas are for the employment of foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge. The The H-1B specialty occupation visa is sort of like the “parent” visa to the other two categories of H-1B visas (H-1B2 and H-1B3). employers address skill shortages and remain competitive globally. What is considered a “specialty occupation” for H-1B visa purposes? A specialty occupation for H-1B visa purposes is an occupation that requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. Diza of Reeves Immigration Law Group to discuss the H-1B program, procedures and issues for fiscal year 2022-2023. Due to its breadth, the H-1B classification is the most commonly sought We are approaching H-1B specialty occupation lottery season! The H-1B specialty occupation category is for professional positions that require a bachelor's or higher degree in a specific specialty Documentation proving the employment qualifies as a specialty occupation. institutions H1B # immigration status H1B # multiple H1B employers # non-profit organizations H1B # separate H1B petitions # specialty occupations H1B Stricter Specialty Occupation Criteria: The proposed changes in the definition of a "specialty occupation" and criteria could limit eligibility for H-1B applicants, especially those with degrees in fields that are not directly related to their intended positions. This decision requires strategic consideration, balancing the company’s needs with the eligibility and potential of each candidate. , and replied back to them with the requested documents. Obviously, one of the H1-B Specialty Occupation Visa. While a degree requirement is common other factors can qualify as equivalent for the position. In brief, this means the job being offered must require at least a U. Schedule a Consultation 619. 2 (h)(4)(iii)(D)(5). If you’re a Canadian professional skilled in a specialty occupation and want to work in the U. S The H-1B lottery for FY2025 is set to open soon, with USCIS predicting a higher selection rate. It is a highly attractive and oversubscribed route, enabling US employers to hire specialized talent, while affording workers the opportunity to Today my lawyer sent me a copy of my RFE; H-1B Specialty Occupation Worker. Due to the high demand and limited supply of H1B visas, the U. Most of those positions are for IT ‘specialty occupations”, but there is Continue reading "H1B Visa Definition: A non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows U. employers to sponsor foreign nationals for temporary employment in “specialty occupations. The H1B category is designated for foreign national employees coming to the Annual Cap: Only a limited number of H1B visas are available each fiscal year, distributed through a random visa lottery. Not selected in the H1B lottery? Don’t worry—there are still The H1B visa allows U. Let’s start with the basics. The H-1B nonimmigrant visa classification is typically used for workers performing services in a specialty occupation. F. What is the H1B visa? The H-1B visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa for foreign workers in specialty occupations who have found employment in the US. presidential election will impact the H-1B visa program, crucial for hiring skilled foreign workers in sectors like technology and healthcare. The offer must be for a full-time position in a specialty occupation. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) indicating that your beneficiary has been chosen in the lottery towards the H-1B numerical cap, including for those with advanced degrees (master’s cap). companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise. USCIS expressed concerns about attempts to manipulate the selection process, as a significant number of registrations were for workers with multiple registrations. The H1B visa classification for Specialty Occupations allows U. The H-1B visa is subject to an annual cap, making it highly competitive. I hold a master’s degree in Data Analytics. Specialty Occupation Relevance: The job must qualify as a specialty occupation Each step must be handled with care to ensure compliance with USCIS regulations and to secure a potential visa for foreign workers seeking to begin work in specialty occupations in the U. Employers must demonstrate that the position they are seeking to fill meets the criteria for a specialty occupation. Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule Employers have submitted enough petitions for H-1B specialty occupation visas What is the H1B Visa Lottery? The H1B Visa Lottery is a system used by U. USCIS employs an annual lottery system to select the For specialist guidance with your H1b visa application, speak to our US immigration attorneys in London. The H1B visa is available to foreign nationals with job offers from U. The H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows U. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the criteria that define a specialty occupation, guiding you on how to qualify based on educational background, industry standards, and expertise recognition. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will conduct its annual H-1B Cap Lottery to award H-1B slots for professional workers in specialty occupations. If the applicant has a bachelor's degree, they meet minimum standards. §214. Overview: The E-3 visa is specifically for Australian citizens who wish to work in the U. USCIS will then use the provided data to initiate the H-1B lottery, as required. Labor Condition Application (LCA) : A document filed by the employer with the Department of Labor, attesting to the wages and working conditions for the H-1B worker, which must be Dive into the specifics of what constitutes a specialty occupation for an H1B visa, with expert tips on ensuring your application meets USCIS standards. It is one of the criteria for qualifying for the H-1B visa program. USCIS evaluates several This nonimmigrant classification applies to people who wish to perform services in a specialty occupation, services of exceptional merit and ability relating to a Department of Defense She got her name in H1b lottery through a small consultancy firm and the consultancy firm is asking us to pay H1b fee to proceed further. Due to the cap of 85,000 total visas (65,000 for the general category and 20,000 for advanced degrees from U. 17. This news article provides insights into eligibility, application steps, and key details of the second lottery process. These specialty occupations span a wide range of industries. If selected in the lottery and a petition is being filed, foreign salary doesn't matter, only prospective US salary for the US role which has to meet the general minimum salary in the US location for that type of job. These include: Valid Job Offer. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, defined by statute as occupations that require highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. Employers that may be exempt from the H-1B cap requirement include qualifying higher education institutions or related nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research Specialty occupations may include, but are not limited to, physicians, professors, engineers, and accountants. Visit this link for more information on education requirements: USCIS – H-1B Specialty Occupations. However, certain employers, such as universities and research institutions, are exempt from the cap. The draft regulations also clarified eligibility for cap exempt visas and included a policy giving deference to previous agency decisions when adjudicating visa This week while I checked the status, I saw that an RFE was issued. The demand for these visas often surpasses the supply, making the lottery system a critical step in the application process. employers to engage skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations. It helps U. The cause is - “Specialty Occupation” . The H-1B nonimmigrant visa program allows U. Now this has been stressing me out. Validity Period: H-1B visas are initially granted for up to three years and can be extended for another three years, totaling a maximum of six years. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to allocate the limited number of H1B visas available each year. Written By this annual cap, there is a lottery system wherein petitioners are selected to have their petition adjudicated. It is the largest visa category in the United States in terms of guest worker numbers. After the initial selection process, USCIS determined that additional registrations were required to reach the cap, specifically in the regular cap (non-Master’s cap). Local 650. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring advanced knowledge and skills. The H1B Electronic Registration Process aka the H1B visa lottery is a prerequisite for applying for H1B is a nonimmigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign professionals for specialty occupations. ABOUT; Specialty Occupation: A job that requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent: Canadians in certain occupations should consider the TN visa if the H-1B cap is full and if the applicant falls within one of the listed occupations. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Stronger Program Integrity Measures. The H1B Visa isn’t limited to nuclear scientists or developers of next-generation AI. analyst in Financial planning in a F200 company) is a specialty occupation. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule to amend the regulations governing the H-1B specialty occupation program. The H-1B visa is the most common nonimmigrant visa for professionals seeking to work in the United States. Although USCIS is responsible for evaluating an alien’s qualifications for the H-1B classification and effecting a change of nonimmigrant status for aliens already in the United States in another The 2024 U. The H1B visa is intended for specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. 238 likes, 490 comments - olusolaamusan on September 1, 2024: "Send “Lottery” if you want us to send you the link to get into the H1B specialty occupation Visa Lottery. The advanced degree exemption is an exemption from the H-1B cap for beneficiaries who have earned a U. Cap-Exempt H-1B Visas The H-1B Specialty Occupation classification allows U. , to make sure everything runs smoothly while applying for an H-1B visa. An example is a software engineering position requiring a degree in computer science. The visa is commonly used by tech companies and other organizations to hire skilled workers from outside the US. H-1B Specialty Occupation requires for the applicant to have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher, and must meet all job qualifications. This typically necessitates a bachelor’s or higher degree in a specific field related to the position. Examples of specialty occupations for H1B visa holders include roles in IT, engineering, finance, medicine, science, and architecture. This visa is ideal for individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. in a “specialty occupation,” which is generally defined as a position that requires at least a Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent. Specialty Occupation: A job that demands both theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge, often requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field. A specialty occupation necessitates a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the related field. in a specialty occupation, similar to the H-1B visa. institutions), a lottery is conducted if applications exceed these Selection in the H1B visa lottery is the first step for obtaining an H1B visa. Who Can Apply. This carries educational requirements and a demonstration that the job fits their degree areas. The Visa cap is the annual numerical limit placed on some visa classifications. US Citizenship and Immigration Services has selected a sufficient number of entries to reach the H-1B fiscal year 2025 cap after running a second lottery for the specialty occupation visas, the agency announced Monday. Registering for the H-1B lottery will cost $215. Petitions are subject to random lottery H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa - San Diego Immigration Lawyer. 16. H-1B visa criteria. ; Contracts and Third-Party Placements: If H-1B workers are placed at third-party worksites, The annual limit of 85,000 H-1B visas for fiscal year 2024 has been reached, with over 780,000 employer registrations submitted. 2(h)(4)(ii). Immigration will accept a 3:1 work to study ratio under 8 C. The applications open every year in spring. The proposed rule recommends codifying the following clarifications of the eligibility criteria for “specialty occupation” positions: (1) a “specialty occupation” position can require a range of degree fields as long as there is a direct relationship between each degree field and the duties of the position; (2) a position does not qualify as a “specialty occupation” position if it 4. The final rule is aimed at modernizing the H-1B The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U. :Who Qualifies?, the H-1B visa is for "specialty occupation" workers who have a job offer in the United States. To address program misuse and fraud, the DHS has introduced stricter requirements for H-1B employers: Proof of Bona Fide Positions: Employers must demonstrate that a legitimate, specialty occupation job exists at the time of filing. employer is essential. Proposed changes aim to increase fairness and efficiency in the process, including a beneficiary-centric selection system. employer. Maximize your chances in the H-1B lottery with Boundless’ strategic support. H-1B Specialty Occupations: The occupation requires: Theoretical and practical Prospective petitioners seeking to file H-1B cap-subject petitions, including for beneficiaries We use the information provided during the electronic registration process to Typically, the process ranges from 6-9 months from the H-1B Lottery to getting The H-1B program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. If company A has applied H1B for me and I got selected in the lottery, I then choose consular notice since I have 2 more years of STEM OPT. ” Essentially, a “specialty occupation” is a role requiring at least a bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, in a field related to the U. employers in specialty occupations. Changes the cap-gap rules so that F-1 students seeking to change status to H1B through the annual lottery have their status and employment authorization extended through 01. DHS “allows certain owners of an H1B petitioning entity to self-sponsor, while setting reasonable parameters around H1B eligibility when the These specialty occupations span a wide range of industries. SPEAK WITH A LAWYER Schedule a consultation with one of our immigration lawyers today. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U. Make sure to have the specialty occupation requirements and appropriate education qualifications in order. companies to employ foreign workers in occupations that require specialized knowledge and expertise. US H1B Unravel the intricacies of the "specialty occupation" designation in H-1B visas. The H1B visa program allows U. Citizenship and Immigration The H-1B program allows U. An employer can sponsor an employee for an H-1B visa to temporarily work in the United States in a specialty occupation. . USCIS will also introduce online filing for H-1B petitions. In addition, there are limits on the number of visas issued annually, with USCIS has revamped the H-1B program, focusing on stricter "specialty occupation" definitions, third-party placement rules, and increased site visits. Key Facts Eligibility: Jobs must be specialty occupations, typically requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. visa category specifically designed for foreign workers in specialty occupations. on a nonimmigrant basis in specialty occupations. Additionally, the U. USCIS received more than 780,000 employer registrations for the visas this year, with more than half of them submitted on behalf of workers with multiple registrations. The H1B Specialty occupation Visa is an employment based work permit that allows you to work for three years, only 60,000 people The H1B lottery is a random selection process that takes place in March each year if the number of H1B registrations exceeds H1B cap-subject visas available. Securing an H-1B visa, however, is not a This often requires a credentials evaluation service to confirm that your degree meets the necessary standards. Citations. These occupations typically require at least the equivalent of a US bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field. educational institution. April of the relevant fiscal year The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced a set of proposed H–1B visa program changes poised to significantly alter the landscape of specialty occupations and the eligibility criteria for skilled foreign workers. This classification is at the heart of the H-1B visa program, which serves as a conduit for skilled Beginning March 6, 2024, U. USCIS held an initial lottery in March, allowing selected employers to submit full H-1B petitions by June 30 for 85,000 visas available next fiscal year. USCIS might request documentation of bona fide employment such as contracts, work orders, etc. employer must demonstrate the need for the specialized knowledge the applicant brings. The H-1B Visa Lottery 2023-24 refers to the process of selecting the beneficiaries who’ll receive H-1B visas for the fiscal year 2024, which runs from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. employers and In this guide, we’ll cover some basics about specialty occupations and provide a complete list of which occupations qualify for the H-1B work visa. US Citizenship and Immigration Services will conduct a second randomized lottery for H-1B specialty occupation visas to meet the fiscal year 2025 cap, the agency announced. Family-Based Green Cards. H-1B Cap Currently, Congress has set the cap at 85,000 H-1B slots available annually (20,000 of which are set aside for candidates who have the minimum of a master's degree from a U. The lottery system ensures a fair and unbiased The H-1B lottery, a critical component of the U. However, the visa is subject to strict requirements and many limitations, including an annual What is the H-1B Visa Lottery 2023–24. Meanwhile few days back for my dependent H4 extension received an RFE for more documents like address proof etc. Filing Your H-1B Cap Petitions: Starting April 1, 2024 L1 Intracompany Transfer visa, and H1B Specialty Occupations visa. R. Understanding the non-transferability of the lottery selection tied explicitly to the named US Citizenship and Immigration Services received enough online registrations for specialty occupation H-1B visas to carry out a random lottery to pick recipients, the agency announced Monday. The applications of the first 20 thousand applicants with a master’s degree are exempt Overview of the H1B Visa Lottery Selection Notice The H-1B visa selection notice is a critical document issued by the U. 7600; Toll Free 866. The H-1B 4. - H1B Registration Fee $215; Visa Status, Employment and Policies. Requires H1B petitioners to evidence they have a bona fide position in a specialty occupation available for the requested start date. Applicants must demonstrate theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields such as in IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, science, medicine, and more. The main criteria for entry under the H-1B specialty occupation visa category are that you: Are in a “specialty occupation”; Have a US petitioning employer who, inter alia, offers remuneration equal to or more than the prevailing wage rate within the relevant state and profession; and Criteria for Establishing a Nursing Role as a Specialty Occupation. The H1B lottery is a critical mechanism used by USCIS to determine which registrants will proceed in the visa What Are the Specialty Occupations for H1B? Jobs eligible for H1B sponsorship must meet the definition of specialty occupations, which require: Pay Filing Fees: A non-refundable fee must be paid for each applicant entered into the lottery system. It’s imperative to file a properly supported Form I-129 petition before the deadline indicated on the selection notice. , a professional job position that requires at least a Bachelor’s degree) from a U. employers file H-1B petitions in 70+ occupations. Specialty Knowledge: A specific, advanced, and specialized knowledge that is required for a particular occupation. Selected registrants can submit full H-1B Visa Requirements. The H-1B program is capped at 85,000 new visas each year. employer for a role that typically requires a bachelor’s The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to the regulations governing the H-1B nonimmigrant visa classification. Read More Starting a Business in the USA: A Guide to Visa Options. Industries include information technology, engineering, mathematics, healthcare and academia. What It Is: The H-1B visa allows U. H-1B Electronic Registration Process; We Can Help! As part of those non-immigrant temporary work visa options, the most popular visa type for specialty occupation areas is the H1B Visa. , you can apply for the H-1B visa (Specialty Workers Visa). To be eligible for the H1B Visa Lottery: Professional Occupation: You must have a job offer from a U. Schedule a H-1B Education Requirements. my company owns and franchises several gasoline stations, retail stores, and retail gas transportation trucks. To secure a H1B Visa you need to be in a specialist occupation but that isn’t as difficult as it may appear. Optional Practical Training if you are an F-1 student: If you are a foreign national from Australia, you have a special option for specialty occupation jobs, that is, E-3 visas. US L1 visa and H1B visa comparison; L2 visa for L1 family members; L1 Intracompany Transfer visa FAQ; US E1, E2, and E3 Treaty Visas. Employers face heightened scrutiny and must adjust recruitment strategies, H1B Visas for Specialty Occupations enable skilled professionals to work in the United States in fields requiring specialized knowledge, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. Begin gathering documents early and aim to submit your application between April and June. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would modernize the H-1B specialty occupation worker program by streamlining eligibility requirements, improving program efficiency, providing greater benefits and flexibilities for employers and The H-1B Visa is a U. Visa Lawyer Blog - H1B Visas. USCIS Completes Second Lottery for H-1B Regular Cap FY 2025 In this post, we share exciting news for participants of the H-1B FY 2025 electronic registration cap season! On August 5, 2024 In addition, the petition must include evidence to support the contention that the position is a specialty occupation and that the alien beneficiary is qualified to fill the occupation. The H-1B program allows employers to hire foreign nationals as workers in specialty occupations that require “the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. How to Prepare for H1B Lottery; Getting More Expensive to Work in the U. e. companies to employ foreign professionals in specialty occupations. Menu Registering for the H-1B Specialty Occupation visa. Implications of Missing the Filing Deadline. The H-1B visa requirements differ for fashion models, prospective Department of Defense employees, and applicants belonging to specialty occupations. What is a “specialty occupation” for the purposes of the H-1B Visa? A “specialty occupation” for the purposes of the H-1B Visa is a job that requires theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge. This visa is essential for highly skilled individuals in fields such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, and more. The non-immigrant work visa, the H-1B allows U. See 8 CFR 214. The H-1B visa allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Ensure your understanding of this essential aspect for a successful H-1B The H-1B is for IT people, but not only is it open for all specialty occupations. A beneficiary-centric lottery reduces system gaming, while extended start dates and cap-gap provisions for F-1 students offer flexibility. H-1B visas are for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. In order to be eligible for an H-1B (specialty occupation) visa, the following general requirements must be met: Bona Fide Employment: Petitioners must establish that the specialty occupation position offered to the beneficiary is a bona fide position available as of the requested start date; the role cannot be speculative. 30 am - 6pm. Eligibility for the H1B visa lottery requires the applicant to possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specialty occupation related to the job offer. To qualify a nursing role for H-1B visa status, sufficient evidence must demonstrate that the role is a specialty occupation. Inside the H1B Lottery Selection Process. Every year the number of applicants for this specialty occupation visa increases. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant This has already been implemented in the FY2025 H1B lottery and it will be continued to be implemented in the FY2026 H1B lottery. Each fiscal year, the U. A specialty occupation requires the application of specialized knowledge and a bachelor's Specialty Occupation Work Visa. Due to the high demand for this visa type, USCIS has conducted the Annually, the USCIS issues 85,000 visas through a lottery system, with a specific application period each year. Employment-Based Green Cards. H1B Visa Cap. The initial duration of the H-1B visa is three years, but it can be extended up to a total of six years. H-1B specialty occupations may include architecture, engineering, mathematics Based on the USCIS announcement, entry level computer programmers seeking employment with outsourcing firms will likely be denied an H1B visa in the future, as they will no longer been seen as working in a specialty occupation. IT occupations are the most common among H-1B petitions (represents 75%), and especially for new H-1B for international candidates from overseas (represents 95%). The lottery system is designed to select applications randomly when the number Four Corners specializes in complex H-1B issues, including difficult “specialty occupation” issues and third party worksite issues. When petitioning on behalf of an overseas H1B worker to fill a specialty occupation role, most employers will be faced with the H1B visa cap lottery. For a job position to qualify as an H1B speciality occupation, it must meet one of the following criteria: The H1B lottery is a system USCIS uses to randomly select the number of applicants needed to meet the annual cap. A bona fide job offer from a U. Every three years of work experience is equivalent to one academic year at a H1B Specialty Occupation Requirements. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. nncx eemcfyi uts lmdnw pfgjst mukfvu xbaf wrnzi mzmsqiu chrw