Specialty Occupation
Regular processing: 3–6 months from petition filing. Premium Processing (Form I-907, additional fee) guarantees a decision within 15 business days. H1B visa stamping in India: 2–8 weeks.
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What is the Specialty Occupation (H-1B) Visa?
The H1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows US employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring a minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent. It is the primary pathway for Indian professionals — particularly in IT, engineering, medicine, finance, and architecture — to work legally in the United States.
Who is Eligible?
1
Indian professionals with a job offer from a US employer
2
Minimum qualification: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
3
The role must qualify as a 'specialty occupation'
4
US employer must be willing to file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) and petition
5
Must be selected in the annual H1B lottery (cap-subject petitions)
6
Cap-exempt employers: universities, non-profits, government research organisations
Step-by-Step Application Process
1
Get a job offer from a US employer
You must have a full-time job offer from a US company that is willing to sponsor your H1B. The job must be a "specialty occupation" — meaning it needs at least a bachelor's degree. Examples: software engineer, doctor, accountant, architect, nurse.
2
Make sure you qualify
You need a bachelor's degree (or higher) in the field related to your job. For example, a software engineer role needs a CS or IT degree. Without the right degree, your petition can be denied.
3
Employer registers you in the H1B lottery (March 1–18)
Every year in March, employers submit your basic details online to USCIS and pay a $215 registration fee. This enters you into a random computer lottery. You cannot register yourself — only your employer can.
Required Documents
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Valid passport
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DS-160 confirmation page
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Visa appointment letter
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I-797 Approval Notice from USCIS
Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment
Processing Time
3-6
MonthsVisa Application Fees
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
USCIS Petition Filing Fee |
$730 (employer) |
ACWIA Training Fee |
$750 or $1,500 (employer, depending on size) |
Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the H1B lottery and when does it happen?
Each year, USCIS opens registration in March. If applications exceed the 85,000 cap, a random lottery is conducted. Selected registrants can proceed with full petition filing.
