The H-1B visa is a U.S. work permit for people with a specialty occupation—jobs that need advanced skills and at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Fields often include information technology, engineering, finance, health care, and scientific research. To begin, a U.S. employer must sponsor you, offering a valid job and filing a Labor Condition Application to confirm fair wages and safe working conditions. Next, the employer submits Form I-129 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. 

Because demand is high, there is a yearly cap of 65,000 visas, plus 20,000 more for those with U.S. master’s or higher degrees. If applications exceed this limit, a computer lottery randomly selects which petitions continue.

Once approved, the visa is typically valid for three years and can often be extended to six years. During this time you can work only for the sponsoring employer unless a transfer is filed. The H-1B allows “dual intent,” meaning you may apply for a green card while working without risking status. Certain employers like universities and nonprofit research groups are cap-exempt, making it slightly easier for applicants in those sectors.