The H-1B visa is the go-to option for skilled professionals and employers looking to build careers and businesses in the United States. At Relief Law PLLC, we’re here to simplify the process, provide expert guidance, and ensure your application is on the path to success.
What is the H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a U.S. work visa for professionals in specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher. This visa is widely used in industries like:
- Technology (e.g., software engineers, IT specialists)
- Engineering and Architecture
- Healthcare (e.g., doctors, nurses, pharmacists)
- Finance (e.g., analysts, accountants)
- Education (e.g., teachers, professors)
- Legal and Policy (e.g., legal analyst, policy analyst)
Why Choose the H-1B Visa?
For employers, the H-1B visa helps attract global talent, meet workforce demands, and drive innovation.
For employees, it offers:
- Work Authorization: Legally work in the U.S. for up to six years.
- Family Benefits: Bring your spouse and children under 21 (H-4 visa).
- Job Flexibility: Transfer to a new employer while maintaining H-1B status.
How Does the H-1B Process Work?
Here’s how the process unfolds:
- Employer Registration for the H-1B Lottery
Employers register during the annual lottery period, typically in March. USCIS allocates 85,000 visas annually (65,000 general cap and 20,000 for advanced degree holders). - Labor Condition Application (LCA)
Employers file an LCA with the Department of Labor, ensuring compliance with wage and working conditions. - File the H-1B Petition (Form I-129)
Once the LCA is approved, the employer submits Form I-129 to USCIS. - Visa Stamping or Status Change
If the petition is approved, employees outside the U.S. apply for the visa at a U.S. consulate. If already in the U.S., a change of status may be requested. - Employment Start Date
Approved applicants typically begin work on October 1 of the fiscal year.
H-1B Cap Exemptions
Some employers are cap-exempt and not subject to the lottery system. These include:
- Universities and colleges.
- Nonprofit organizations affiliated with universities.
- Nonprofit and governmental research institutions.
Cap-exempt employers can hire H-1B workers year-round.
Challenges in the H-1B Process (and How We Solve Them)
- Lottery Competition: Demand exceeds supply, making the lottery highly competitive. We can help explore cap-exempt opportunities or alternative visas.
- Complex Documentation: Errors or incomplete forms can delay approval. At Relief Law PLLC, we ensure every detail is accurate and submitted on time.
- Policy Changes: Immigration laws evolve, but our team stays updated to guide you through the process confidently.
How Long Can You Stay on an H-1B Visa?
- Initial Period: 3 years.
- Extensions: Up to 6 years total.
- Beyond 6 Years: Possible extensions for those pursuing a green card.
Why Choose Relief Law PLLC?
At Relief Law PLLC, we understand that the H-1B process can feel overwhelming. Our mission is to simplify it for you and provide expert support tailored to your unique needs.
Here’s what we offer:
- Personalized Attention: Every client gets a custom strategy.
- Full-Service Support: From LCA filing to responding to RFEs, we handle it all.
- Proven Results: We’ve helped countless employers and professionals achieve their H-1B goals.
- Transparent Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your H-1B Journey?
Determining whether a job qualifies as a specialty occupation can be complex. At Relief Law PLLC, we specialize in evaluating positions to ensure they meet H-1B eligibility requirements. If you’re an employer or professional wondering if your role qualifies, contact us today for an evaluation. Let’s make your H-1B process smooth, successful, and stress-free.
📞 Call us at 346 660-1957
📧 Email us at info@relief.law
🌐 Visit us at www.relief.law