H-1B Visa Complete Guide 2026

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa allowing US employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise.

What is the H-1B Visa?

The H-1B is the most popular work visa for skilled professionals in the United States, particularly in technology, engineering, medicine, and finance sectors.

Key Features

• Duration: Initial 3 years, extendable to 6 years
• Dual Intent: Can pursue green card while on H-1B
• Cap: 65,000 regular + 20,000 master's cap annually
• Employer Sponsored: Requires employer petition

Eligibility Requirements

For the Job:

• Specialty occupation requiring bachelor's degree minimum
• Position must require specialized knowledge
• Employer must pay prevailing wage

For the Worker:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in related field
• Relevant work experience (3 years = 1 year education)
• Valid passport
• No immigration violations

H-1B Lottery Process

1. Registration Period: March (employer registers workers)
2. Lottery Selection: USCIS randomly selects from registrations
3. Petition Filing: Selected applicants file I-129 petition
4. Processing: Standard or premium processing
5. Approval & Start: Begin work October 1st

Costs

| Component | Cost | |-----------|------| | Registration Fee | $215 | | Base Filing Fee | $460 | | ACWIA Fee | $750-$1,500 | | Fraud Prevention Fee | $500 | | Premium Processing (optional) | $2,805 |

Cap-Exempt Employers

Some employers are H-1B cap exempt:

• Universities and colleges
• Non-profit research organizations
• Government research organizations
• Non-profit affiliated with higher education

Beyond 6 Years

Extensions beyond 6 years possible if:

• I-140 approved or pending for 365+ days
• PERM labor certification pending
• Per-country backlog applies

Tips for Success

• Apply to multiple employers to increase lottery chances
• Consider cap-exempt employers
• Maintain strong ties to home country
• Keep documents organized and ready

Contact Zafco for H-1B visa guidance and employer connections.