An H-1B visa is stamped into the biographic page of your passport by a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, allowing you to enter the U.S. and begin work for the sponsoring employer in a specialty occupation, such as architecture, engineering, or medicine. You must find a sponsoring U.S. employer, qualify for the job, and apply for the H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country to obtain the visa for your passport.
What is the H-1B Visa?
It's a work visa for foreign nationals to work in the U.S. in "specialty occupations" that require a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
The work visa allows you to legally live and work in the U.S. while employed by the sponsoring company.
It's a dual-intent visa, meaning you are not required to show intent to leave the U.S. at the end of your authorized stay.
How to get an H-1B Visa Stamp
Find a U.S. employer: A U.S. company must extend a genuine job offer and sponsor your H-1B visa petition.
H-1B Lottery (if applicable): For most for-profit companies, you must first be selected in the H-1B cap lottery before the employer can file the petition.
Petition Approval: The employer files the H-1B petition with U.S. Citizenship
Apply for a visa stamp: If you are outside the U.S., you will schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country to have the H-1B visa stamp placed in your passport.
Entry to the U.S.: The H-1B visa stamp in your passport allows you to travel to the U.S. and begin your employment.
What to expect on your Passport
The H-1B visa is a sticker with your information and details about the visa, such as its expiration date.
It is placed on a blank page in your passport.
Key Considerations
You must meet specific eligibility requirements and find a qualified employer willing to sponsor you.
You will need to provide documents like your passport's biographic page, diplomas, transcripts, and letters of employment verification.
