The United States H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa is for work / skilled visitors — Costs USD 205 (visa) + employer petition fees, takes Lottery in March; petitions from April; premium processing 15 days.
| Visa fee | USD 205 (visa) + employer petition fees |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Lottery in March; petitions from April; premium processing 15 days |
| Validity | Up to 3 years, extendable to 6 |
| Entry | Multiple |
Last reviewed August 2026 · figures indicative, verify with the official source.
Overview
The H-1B visa is the main U.S. work visa for professionals in specialty occupations (IT, engineering, finance, science). It requires a U.S. employer sponsor and is subject to an annual cap and lottery. Other routes include L-1 (intra-company transfer), O-1 (extraordinary ability) and TN (for Canadians/Mexicans).
Eligibility
- A job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation
- At least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field
- Employer files a Labor Condition Application and I-129 petition
- Selection in the H-1B lottery (cap-subject roles)
Required documents
- Approved Form I-129 petition
- Degree certificates and evaluations
- Employment offer and LCA
- Form DS-160 and passport
How to apply
- Employer registers you in the H-1B lottery (spring)
- If selected, employer files the I-129 petition
- On approval, apply for the visa stamp via DS-160 and interview (if abroad)
- Begin work on/after October 1
Work rights & conditions
Please verify before applying. Fees, processing times and rules change frequently and can vary by nationality. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official government source. Official source: www.uscis.gov.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the United States work / skilled visa cost? ＋
The H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa costs USD 205 (visa) + employer petition fees. Fees are indicative and can change — always confirm the current amount on the official source.
How long does the United States work / skilled visa take to process? ＋
Typical processing time is Lottery in March; petitions from April; premium processing 15 days. Times vary by nationality, season and how complete your application is.
How long can I stay on the United States work / skilled visa? ＋
This visa generally allows a stay of Up to 3 years, extendable to 6. Entry type: Multiple.
Can I work on the United States work / skilled visa? ＋
Full-time work for the sponsoring employer; spouse (H-4) may qualify for work authorization.
Who is eligible for the United States work / skilled visa? ＋
A job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation. At least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field. Employer files a Labor Condition Application and I-129 petition. Selection in the H-1B lottery (cap-subject roles).
Where do I apply for the United States work / skilled visa? ＋
Applications are made through the official government portal. VisaViews links directly to the official source on this page so you always start in the right place.