H1b specialty occupation lottery. Understanding the Second H-1B Lottery for FY 2025.

H1b specialty occupation lottery Ensure your understanding of this essential aspect for a successful H-1B visa application. Sapochnick is dedicated to serving our clients with a range of legal services including Immigration and Visa cases. With the process now complete, USCIS has begun notifying prospective petitioners whose registrations have been selected, granting them eligibility to file an H-1B cap-subject US L1 visa and H1B visa comparison; L2 visa for L1 family members; L1 Intracompany Transfer visa FAQ; US E1, E2, and E3 Treaty Visas. 4. This typically necessitates a bachelor’s or higher degree in a specific field related to the position. Feb 20, 2024 · The H-1B specialty occupation visa is a non-immigrant visa category that is vital for US companies, especially tech giants, to fill their ranks with skilled workers who possess specialized knowledge. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently completed the initial electronic registration selection process for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap, including those under the advanced degree exemption. (See USCIS's "Characteristics of H-1B Specialty Occupation Workers" report; the the Fiscal Year 2022 is the most recent available as of January 2024. Latest H-1B Visa Rules H-1B Visa Registration Rules Oct 12, 2024 · Overview of the H1B Lottery System. This term is crucial for individuals applying for H-1B visas as it determines eligibility for the program. This proposed revamping of the H-1B visa lottery system marks a significant stride in simplifying the process and promoting responsible entrepreneurship “specialty occupation. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. Jul 1, 2024 · Specialty Occupation: A job that demands both theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge, often requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field. Inside the H1B Lottery Selection Process. How to Register To submit an H-1B registration, you must first create a USCIS online account . Evidence that the beneficiary is qualified to perform the specialty occupation. Oct 30, 2023 · On October 23, 2023, the U. This visa is ideal for individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Apr 1, 2024 · U. What Defines a Specialty Occupation? A specialty occupation requires applying specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree to perform the job. We are approaching H-1B specialty occupation lottery season! The H-1B specialty occupation category is for professional positions that require a bachelor's or higher degree in a specific specialty Jan 24, 2024 · By Sanwar Ali: The Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the H-1B Visa Lottery Process The H-1B visa is useful for skilled professionals worldwide with a job offer to gain entry to the United States. 6 days ago · For H1B workers staffed to a third party, the rule specifies it is the requirements of that third party, and not the petitioner, that are most relevant when determining whether the position is a specialty occupation. This information does not constitute legal advice. Our experienced team has successfully handled petitions for a diverse array of professionals across numerous industries, demonstrating our versatility and deep understanding of the H-1B process. Finding more than one sponsor is not going to help you increase your chance of getting an H1B through the lottery anymore. Aug 30, 2024 · The H-1B Visa is a U. Each fiscal year, the U. Premium Processing Clock Was Stopped For My Case on Aug-3rd and no update from USCIS from then for my H1b Extension. Nov 15, 2023 · Perhaps you’re a worker hoping to get your hands on an H-1B visa or a company looking to support a worker throughout the H-1B visa process. See full list on dol. A specialty occupation is one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. The term “specialty occupation” means an occupation that requires: (1) theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and, (2) attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its Dec 2, 2024 · Even though the information required for an H-1B cap lottery registration is not very extensive, we recommend employers conduct a thorough case evaluation before submitting a lottery entry. You have 12 years of progressively responsible work experience in the specialty. 5 days ago · At a Glance. If selected in the lottery and a petition is being filed, foreign salary doesn't matter, only prospective US salary for the US role which has to meet the general minimum salary in the US location for that type of job. The demand for these visas often surpasses the supply, making the lottery system a critical step in the application process. Employers may file an H-1B petition for an alien to perform services in a specialty occupation, services of an exceptional nature relating to a Department of Defense Jun 17, 2024 · Specialty Occupations. USCIS will also introduce online filing for H-1B petitions. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise. USCIS expressed concerns about attempts to manipulate the selection process, as a significant number of registrations were for workers with multiple registrations. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U. The job must meet one of the following criteria to qualify as a specialty occupation under an H-1B visa: Sep 11, 2024 · Learn about the H1B visa lottery and its potential influence on future TN visa eligibility. position. Demonstrable specialized knowledge pertinent to the job. Mar 4, 2024 · Avoiding a specialty occupation RFE. 3. It is crucial for employers to register within this period to be eligible for the lottery selection. The non-immigrant work visa, the H-1B allows U. Current laws limit the annual number of qualifying foreign workers who may be issued an E-3 visa to 10,500 Australian nationals seeking temporary work in specialty occupations. institution of higher education. labor needs. The H1B Specialty occupation Visa is an employment based work permit that allows you to work for three years, only 60,000 people can get Send “Lottery” if you want us to send you the link to get into the H1B specialty occupation Visa Lottery. For example, under the new definition, an H1B job requirement that says a general MBA or general engineering degree will not be sufficient to qualify for an H1B specialty occupation. Key Dates for FY 2024 H1B Cap Registration. These are jobs that require theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, typically in fields such as IT, engineering, mathematics, science, and healthcare. Fashion models can qualify for H-1B visas if they are of distinguished merit and ability. I feel an individual adjudicator will most likely not deny a petition if the new employer is legit/ the role qualifies on all the barometers of sponsorship particularly specialty occupation. We have sent links to 100s of you already, if you didn’t receive it holla at us now. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) published a Final Rule in the Federal Register (89 FR 103054, 12/18/24) that will bring changes to H-1B eligibility requirements and definitions (including the definition of “specialty occupation”); clarify and expand the criteria for H-1B cap-exempt employment; increase the duration of F-1 cap-gap work The H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows U. However, certain employers, such as universities and research institutions, are exempt from the cap. Lottery System: A random selection process used when the demand for H-1B visas exceeds the annual cap. She got her name in H1b lottery through a small consultancy firm and the consultancy firm is asking us to pay H1b fee to proceed further. Applicants should complete applications accurately, adhere to timelines, and consider alternatives due to low selection odds and The E-3 program allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers from Australia in the U. A “specialty occupation” means an occupation that requires: A theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and Registering for the annual H1B lottery started in 2020. Jun 5, 2024 · Participating in the H-1B lottery registration process requires prospective employees to meet specific criteria, including a job offer in a specialty occupation and the necessary educational qualifications. The H1B visa is a temporary work visa that allows US employeres to hire highly qualified workers for specialty jobs. Feb 16, 2024 · This often requires a credentials evaluation service to confirm that your degree meets the necessary standards. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) publishes statistics on the employers that file H-1B visa petitions and the occupations that USCIS has approved for H-1B visas. Examples of specialty occupations for H1B visa holders include roles in IT, engineering, finance, medicine, science, and architecture. These updates aim to May 24, 2024 · The H1B specialty occupation visa is a popular choice for skilled migrant workers and American employers alike. visas for foreign workers in specialty fields, capped at 65,000 annually, with an extra 20,000 for advanced degree holders from U. 23, 2023. May 14, 2024 · Unravel the intricacies of the "specialty occupation" designation in H-1B visas. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) releases a cap on the number of H1B visas available. Once the cap is reached, the lottery system selects Hello, this is for my niece, a 28 years Engineering graduate from India, with 4 years of IT development work experience. A “specialty occupation” is defined as an occupation that requires a theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. Labor Condition Application (LCA) : A document filed by the employer with the Department of Labor, attesting to the wages and working conditions for Apr 1, 2024 · Overview of the H1B Visa Lottery Selection Notice The H-1B visa selection notice is a critical document issued by the U. WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U. The intent of the H-1B provisions is to help employers who cannot otherwise obtain needed business skills and abilities from the U. companies’ ability to fill job vacancies in critical fields, strengthening our economy An overhaul of the annual lottery process for H-1B specialty occupation visas in the coming fiscal year, which employers can begin registering for Wednesday, promises improved odds for . Employers must demonstrate that the position they are seeking to fill meets the criteria for a specialty occupation. Nov 7, 2023 · The H-1B program allows employers to hire foreign nationals as workers in specialty occupations that require “the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. Current laws limit the annual number of qualifying foreign workers who may be issued an H-1B1 visa to 6,800 with 1,400 from Chile and 5,400 from Singapore. 4 days ago · Summary: On December 18, 2024, U. To qualify a nursing role for H-1B visa status, sufficient evidence must demonstrate that the role is a specialty occupation. However, due to the high demand and limited availability of H-1B visas, the application process involves a lottery system, injecting an element of chance and uncertainty into the equation. Now this has been stressing me out. These proposals mark a pivotal shift towards a more flexible, skills-first approach, reflecting the evolving needs of the U. The H-1B is a visa in the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 101(a)(15)(H), that allows United States employers to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. H-1B visas are for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. E1 Visa as Treaty Trader; E2 Visa for investors and employees; E3 Visa for Australians in a Specialty Occupation; E2 and E1 Treaty Visa FAQ; US B1 in lieu of H1B visa; US H-1B visa for specialty workers. visa category specifically designed for foreign workers in specialty occupations. WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule that will significantly enhance U. H-1B Cap Currently, Congress has set the cap at 85,000 H-1B slots available annually (20,000 of which are set aside for candidates who have the minimum of a Dec 18, 2023 · The annual limit of 85,000 H-1B visas for fiscal year 2024 has been reached, with over 780,000 employer registrations submitted. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would modernize the H-1B specialty occupation worker program by streamlining eligibility requirements, improving program efficiency, providing greater benefits and flexibilities for employers and workers, and strengthening integrity May 14, 2024 · What is the H1B Visa Lottery? The H1B Visa Lottery is a system used by U. Oct 31, 2024 · The Berardi Difference. H-1Bs are specific to the sponsoring employer, location, and job. H-1B visa criteria. Mar 28, 2024 · This coveted visa allows skilled workers to fill specialty occupations in the US, contributing their talents and expertise to various industries. Recent changes ensure fair selection, allowing each applicant one entry. Allows certain owners of an H1B petitioning entity to self-sponsor, while setting reasonable parameters around H1B eligibility The H-1B program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. The cause is - “Specialty Occupation” . We have sent links to 100s of you already, if H-1B Worker in Specialty Occupation This information is for the University of Houston hiring departments that have hired or are interested in hiring a nonimmigrant. The registration window for the FY 2024 H1B Cap opened on March 1, 2023, at 12:00 PM EST and will close on March 20, 2023, at 5:00 PM EST. Understanding the Second H-1B Lottery for FY 2025. Maximize your chances in the H-1B lottery with Boundless’ strategic support. We can assist in assessing and enhancing your eligibility. At Berardi Immigration Law, we pride ourselves on our robust H-1B visa practice. The draft regulations also clarified eligibility for cap exempt visas and included a policy giving deference to previous agency decisions when This week while I checked the status, I saw that an RFE was issued. For instance, we recommend analyzing the proposed position for specialty occupation and salary/prevailing wage H-1B eligibility. The lottery system ensures a fair and unbiased selection process, giving all applicants an equal chance of being chosen. The H-1B visa program has long been a gateway for skilled professionals, particularly from India, to build careers in the U. Citations. This rule, titled “Modernizing H-1B Requirements, Providing Flexibility in the F-1 Program, and Program Improvements Affecting Other Nonimmigrant Workers” will take effect on January 17, 2025. Oct 23, 2023 · Homeland Security DHS to modernize H1B program by the proposed rule would “modernize the H-1B specialty occupation worker program by of having multiple H-1B cap lottery registrations 5 days ago · Clarifies that specialty occupations may require a range of degrees if the required degrees are “directly related” to the position and skills. This dual focus on modernization, flexibility, and worker protections marks one of the most The H-1B visa program plays a critical role in the U. The H1B visa is intended for specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Firms and lawyers sort this out, not applicants. To qualify for an H-1B visa, the position must meet certain criteria such as requiring a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specific field Aug 19, 2024 · Eligibility for the H1B visa lottery requires the applicant to possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specialty occupation related to the job offer. employers to augment the existing labor force with highly skilled temporary workers. 1. The H1B visa program allows U. Nov 2, 2023 · The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to the regulations governing the H-1B nonimmigrant visa classification. USCIS evaluates several factors, including: The specific nature of the petitioner’s business. 17. A foreign worker can be in H-1B status for a maximum continuous period of six (6) years. Do I Qualify for an H1B Visa? You qualify for the H1B visa if you are accepted in a specific job position which has the following requirements: Jan 7, 2016 · As part of those non-immigrant temporary work visa options, the most popular visa type for specialty occupation areas is the H1B Visa. employers alike. As we approach the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) H-1B lottery, it's essential to understand the process, key dates, recent changes, and other possible changes to navigate the system effectively. It is also referred to as Person in Specialty Occupation Visa. This GMS Flash Alert examines three areas of concern the proposals attempt to address: modernize the H-1B program and increase efficiency; provide greater benefits and flexibilities for petitioners and beneficiaries; and improve Jan 4, 2024 · 16. institutions. Due to the high demand for this visa type, USCIS has conducted the H1B lottery for the last 12 consecutive years. Nov 3, 2023 · The H-1B nonimmigrant visa classification is typically used for workers performing services in a specialty occupation. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) indicating that your beneficiary has been chosen in the lottery towards the H-1B numerical cap, including for those with advanced degrees (master’s cap). But what is a specialty occupation? According to the Code of Federal Regulation, a specialty occupation requires: H-1B Specialty Occupation requires for the applicant to have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher, and must meet all job qualifications. Each year, only 85,000 H-1B visas are available, with 20,000 of these reserved Oct 20, 2023 · Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U. gov Mar 6, 2024 · In this guide, we’ll cover some basics about specialty occupations and provide a complete list of which occupations qualify for the H-1B work visa. Jul 26, 2023 · U. Send “Lottery” to out DM to register EARLY for the 2025 Specialty occupation visa lottery (H1B), you can save and be guaranteed an employer spots Specialty Occupation Requirements for H-1B Visa. The main differences between the H-2B visa and H-1B visa are the types of occupations that qualify for each one and the extension availability. Why a Second Lottery? The second lottery was necessitated by the need to meet the FY 2025 H-1B numerical allocations. companies to employ foreign workers in occupations that require specialized knowledge and expertise. These measures aim to streamline the immigration system and attract global talent. Even there isn't any notice received until now explaining the reason. ” 4 The H-1B nonimmigrant classification is a vehicle through which employers may obtain workers on a temporary basis. Jan 17, 2024 · U. H-1B visas are for the employment of foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge. Requests for Evidence generally involve whether or not the position meets the criteria of a specialty occupation. Maybe this is just wishful thinking on my part. US H1B Dec 13, 2024 · That lottery update was finalized in January ahead of the fiscal 2025 visa lottery. The H-1B1 program allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers from Chile and Singapore in the U. This selection is formally acknowledged through the USCIS Form I-797C, or Notice of Action, which signifies a successful lottery outcome and initiates the journey toward filing the H1B visa petition. For more information about the H-1B program, visit our H-1B Specialty Occupations webpage. Whether you’re an employer looking to bring in top talent or a foreign national seeking to work in the United States, understanding the H-1B visa process is essential. The proposed rule recommends codifying the following clarifications of the eligibility criteria for “specialty occupation” positions: (1) a “specialty occupation” position can require a range of degree fields as long as there is a direct relationship between each degree field and the duties of the position; (2) a position does not Dec 21, 2023 · There are several major types of changes in the recent USCIS proposal: one type would change the way the H-1B lottery is administered, so it would impact only those H-1B petitions subject to the lottery; another type of change would impact all H-1B petitions, including those from university and/or non-profit employers, and it would address the Apr 5, 2017 · Based on the USCIS announcement, entry level computer programmers seeking employment with outsourcing firms will likely be denied an H1B visa in the future, as they will no longer been seen as working in a specialty occupation. The definition of ‘specialty occupations’ in this context are those occupations which require a practical and theoretical application of Home | USCIS May 14, 2024 · Criteria for Establishing a Nursing Role as a Specialty Occupation. The H-1B visa is subject to an annual cap, making it highly competitive. Visit this link for more information on education requirements: USCIS – H-1B Specialty Occupations. S. Meeting the H1B master’s cap eligibility can significantly increase the chances of selection in the H1B lottery. Jun 7, 2024 · The H1B visa program in the United States allows employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. Industries include information technology, engineering, mathematics, healthcare and academia. Industry standards and norms. Aug 18, 2024 · This is a work visa lottery that requires minimum HND or Bachelors Degree and it’s a 3-year work permit, renewable once (6 years in total) with thesame employer and a pathway to Green Card. The proposed rule seeks to improve the H-1B program by streamlining eligibility requirements, enhancing program efficiency, providing greater benefits and flexibilities for employers and workers, and Each step must be handled with care to ensure compliance with USCIS regulations and to secure a potential visa for foreign workers seeking to begin work in specialty occupations in the U. Characteristics of H-1B Specialty Occupation Workers - USCIS 5 days ago · Rule will provide greater benefits and flexibilities for U. workforce by authorizing the temporary Oct 4, 2024 · This includes verifying that the job position meets the H-1B requirements, such as being a specialty occupation requiring specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise, such as in IT, engineering, and other fields. Distinguished Merit. In addition, the petition must include evidence to support the contention that the position is a specialty occupation and that the alien beneficiary is qualified to fill the occupation. USCIS received more than 780,000 employer registrations for the visas this year, with more than half of them submitted on behalf of workers with Aug 6, 2024 · The H1B visa allows U. The H1B category is designated for foreign national employees coming to the United States to perform services in a specialty occupation (temporary professional workers) or as a fashion model. 6 days ago · The H-1B program allows companies and other employers in the United States to temporarily employ foreign workers in occupations that require the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. The H1B visa is a temporary worker visa in specialty occupations. Dec 6, 2024 · H1B Visas for Specialty Occupations enable skilled professionals to work in the United States in fields requiring specialized knowledge, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. The final rule is the first step in USCIS' plan to finalize and phase in elements of the proposed rule published on Oct. ” The proposed rule would change the way USCIS conducts the H-1B cap registration process (H-1B lottery). including, but not limited to, architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical The H1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign professionals with a Bachelor’s degree to work in a specialty occupation. Understanding the non-transferability of the lottery selection tied explicitly to the named beneficiary is essential. Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer. The lottery system is designed to select applications randomly when the number Jan 5, 2024 · The H1B visa program has an annual cap, with 65,000 visas available under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 reserved for individuals who have earned a master’s or higher degree from a U. , to make sure everything runs smoothly while applying for an H-1B visa. 5 days ago · By Ann Lee On December 17, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the final implementation of the long-anticipated H-1B modernization rule. I mailed my attorney and I was told that they are working on producing paper work to support my case that my role (Sr. A specialty occupation is: An occupation which requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge . Due to its breadth, the H-1B classification is the most commonly sought Individuals working in a specialty occupation may be eligible for H-1B status without being selected in the H-1B lottery if they are employed by a cap-exempt employer. It is one of the criteria for qualifying for the H-1B visa program. visas for professionals with specialty occupations. 238 likes, 490 comments - olusolaamusan on September 1, 2024: "Send “Lottery” if you want us to send you the link to get into the H1B specialty occupation Visa Lottery. In addition, there are limits on the number of visas issued annually, with caps for general applicants and those with a U. The H1B visa has an annual cap and a lottery system. Now, employers must submit an electronic registration in March if they would like to be entered in the annual H1B lottery which takes place in April. To qualify for an H-1B visa, the job must be in a specialty occupation, which is defined by the requirement for specialized knowledge and the application of that knowledge in the role. employer must demonstrate the need for the specialized knowledge the applicant brings. Aug 22, 2024 · New regulations and changes to the lottery process have been implemented. S Specialty Occupation Requirement. If so, this article will walk you through everything you need to know to navigate the H-1B visa process, from meeting the eligibility criteria to navigating the H-1B application steps, supporting dependents, and everything in between. After the initial selection process, USCIS determined that additional registrations were required to reach the cap, specifically in the regular cap (non-Master’s cap). Oct 20, 2023 · USCIS seeks to update regulations with proposed rulemaking to improve program efficiency and integrity. master’s degree or higher. May 14, 2024 · Documentation proving the employment qualifies as a specialty occupation. H-1B Electronic Registration Process; We Can Help! Canadians in certain occupations should consider the TN visa if the H-1B cap is full and if the applicant falls within one of the listed occupations. Understanding the H1B Cap May 7, 2024 · Definition: A non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows U. 5 days ago · DHS is changing the definition of “specialty occupation” to ensure that the H1B job position requires relevant education in that specialized field. The H1B visa classification for Specialty Occupations allows U. May 14, 2024 · Selection in the H1B visa lottery is the first step for obtaining an H1B visa. To be eligible for the H-1B route, the occupation requires: Theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and; Attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. H-1B is employer-specific and position-specific, and individual may only work for the employer who sponsors his/her status and only in the position set forth in the position. Aug 9, 2024 · These specialty occupations span a wide range of industries. The H1B lottery is a critical mechanism used by USCIS to determine which registrants will proceed in the visa Jan 15, 2024 · The H-1B lottery for FY2025 is set to open soon, with USCIS predicting a higher selection rate. Essentially, a “specialty occupation” is a role requiring at least a bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, in a field related to the U. Key Facts Eligibility: Jobs must be specialty occupations, typically requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. The second round of H1B lottery is meant to allow the US employers to hire international skilled professional for speciality occupations and help meet the annual quota of H1B visas. Feb 1, 2024 · The final rule introduces several changes to the H-1B lottery process that will take effect before the Fiscal Year 2025 registration system opens for the H-1B lottery on March 6, 2024. What is a “specialty occupation” for the purposes of the H-1B Visa? A “specialty occupation” for the purposes of the H-1B Visa is a job that requires theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge. However, with an annual cap of 85,000 visas and demand far exceeding supply, many qualified applicants are left disappointed each year as their chances are determined by a lottery system. Dec 26, 2016 · It is easy to let the time slip by, and if you are planning to apply for an H1B specialty occupation position for fiscal year 2018, you only have four months to complete all of the necessary steps before the annual lottery in April 2017. Not enough petitions were filed to reach the numerical allocation for the regular cap during the initial selection process hence resulting in the second round of International employees in specialty occupations typically need to register with USCIS and be selected in the lottery before applying for an H-1B visa. Before this lottery registration, employers filed H1B petitions for their prospective employees after receiving their certified LCA. To qualify for it, you must meet one of the following three education requirements: You hold a bachelor's or higher degree in the specialty occupation from an accredited college or university. Specialty Knowledge: A specific, advanced, and specialized knowledge that is required for a particular occupation. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will conduct its annual H-1B Cap Lottery to award H-1B slots for professional workers in specialty occupations. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would modernize the H-1B specialty occupation worker program by streamlining eligibility requirements, improving Jan 4, 2024 · A 'specialty occupation' for an H-1B visa refers to a job that requires specialized knowledge and a minimum of a bachelor's degree. USCIS held an initial lottery in March, allowing selected employers to submit full H-1B petitions by June 30 for 85,000 visas available next fiscal year. The second H-1B visa lottery conducted by USCIS for fiscal year 2025 was a response to the overwhelming demand for this coveted visa category. 6 days ago · This has already been implemented in the FY2025 H1B lottery and it will be continued to be implemented in the FY2026 H1B lottery. Impacts to International Students OPT to H-1B Transition 5 days ago · The DHS has modernized the H-1B program to clarify specialty occupation requirements, improve flexibility for employers and workers, and strengthen program integrity. With the H-2B visa, it can be extended for a Jul 30, 2024 · US Citizenship and Immigration Services will conduct a second randomized lottery for H-1B specialty occupation visas to meet the fiscal year 2025 cap, the agency announced. . USCIS is also Schedule a Consultation - Call (619) 819-9204 - Law Offices of Jacob J. This visa category is divided into two segments: CAP-Subject and CAP-Exempt. It gives overseas graduate-level workers the opportunity to be sponsored in a highly skilled job role, not only gaining vital work experience, but getting the chance to enjoy life in the USA. An example is a software engineering position requiring a degree in computer science. Specialty Occupation: Ensure that the job offered under H-1B classification is a specialty occupation related to your field of study. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields such as architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine, and May 14, 2024 · FY 2025 H1B Visa Lottery. analyst in Financial planning in a F200 company) is a specialty occupation. A beneficiary-centric lottery reduces system gaming, while extended start dates and cap-gap provisions for F-1 students offer flexibility. H-2B Visa versus H1B Visa. Additionally, the U. Additionally, lawyers must keep track of deadlines and respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) issued by USCIS to avoid delays or denials. Proposed changes aim to increase fairness and efficiency in the process, including a beneficiary-centric selection system. To be consistent with current guidance, updates regulations on when amended or new petitions must be filed if there is a change in work location. on a nonimmigrant basis in specialty occupations. labor market and the diverse The H1B visa for the professionals in specialty occupations have three main requirements that needs to be satisfied: evidence must be provided to the USCIS to show that (1) the job position offered under the H1B visa petition qualifies under the definition of a specialty occupation (which is a professional job position that requires at least a 6 days ago · The H-1B program allows companies and other employers in the United States to temporarily employ foreign workers in occupations that require the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. To avoid an RFE for your H1B petition, especially those questioning the specialty occupation criteria, you must carefully document your job’s requirements and your qualifications to fill the role. Meanwhile few days back for my dependent H4 extension received an RFE for more documents like address proof etc. Key changes include updated rules for cap-exempt organizations, automatic extensions for F-1 students changing to H-1B, and stricter compliance measures such as site visits and bona fide job verification. Apr 5, 2021 · The H-1B specialty occupation visa is sort of like the “parent” visa to the other two categories of H-1B visas (H-1B2 and H-1B3). “Specialty Occupations” for H-1B Visas. Jan 10, 2024 · H1B visas are for specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Employers that may be exempt from the H-1B cap requirement include qualifying higher education institutions or related nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and Oct 1, 2024 · The H1B visa is a temporary non-immigrant worker visa that makes it possible for US businesses and organisations to employ graduate-level or otherwise specialist foreign nationals in speciality occupations. Apr 1, 2022 · If you were selected in the 2024-25 H-1B visa lottery, contact VisaNation attorneys for filing your H-1B petition. Stricter Specialty Occupation Criteria: The proposed changes in the definition of a "specialty occupation" and criteria could limit eligibility for H-1B applicants, especially those with degrees in fields that are not directly related to their intended positions. employer, and a prevailing wage determination. Learn more about specialty occupation requirments. employers to engage skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations. Contact Us. The H-1B Visa allows these professionals to live and work in the Nov 11, 2024 · The H-1B visa program is a critical pathway for U. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Feb 2, 2024 · Beginning March 6, 2024, U. Roles in industries such as technology, finance, architecture, and healthcare. The H1B Visa Lottery is a system used by U. employers and specialty occupation workers, helping to meet U. businesses use the H-1B program to temporarily employ foreign workers in a specialty occupation that requires theoretical or technical expertise in a certain field, such as science, engineering, or computer programming. Selected registrants can submit full petitions for the visas for fiscal year 2024 starting April 1. USCIS has notified employers with selected registrations that they can move forward with visa petitions. ) Jun 5, 2024 · The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced a set of proposed H–1B visa program changes poised to significantly alter the landscape of specialty occupations and the eligibility criteria for skilled foreign workers. H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa - San Diego Immigration Lawyer Dec 13, 2023 · Employers have submitted enough petitions for H-1B specialty occupation visas to reach the annual limit of 85,000 for fiscal year 2024, US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Wednesday. This blog post answers the question of whether H1B lottery entry could signal immigration intent, thereby impacting your chances of obtaining a TN visa later on. What is the H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa? The H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows U. Aug 28, 2024 · To be eligible for an H1B visa, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field, a job offer from a U. Equally, it provides US sponsors with Oct 19, 2024 · The H1B visa lottery manages high-demand U. Getting an H1B Visa is not easy. Nearly 12% of H1B visas have been given to programmers in the past, and are those that typically replace US workers in Effective January 17, 2025, these changes will impact employers, workers, and HR professionals across multiple visa categories, including H-1B (for specialty occupations) and H-2A/H-2B (for temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers). This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the criteria that define a specialty occupation, guiding you on how to qualify based on educational background, industry standards, and expertise recognition. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule to amend the regulations governing the H-1B specialty occupation program. Every year A specialty occupation is one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. economy, allowing American companies to hire highly skilled foreign workers in specialized occupations. Implications of Missing the Filing Deadline. H1B is a nonimmigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign professionals for specialty occupations. There are a total of 85,000 visas available each year, including 20,000 slots reserved for candidates who earned a Master's degree or higher from a U. What Are the Specialty Occupations for H1B? Jobs eligible for H1B sponsorship must meet the definition of specialty occupations, which require: At least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to allocate the limited number of H1B visas available each year. Aug 5, 2024 · US Citizenship and Immigration Services has selected a sufficient number of entries to reach the H-1B fiscal year 2025 cap after running a second lottery for the specialty occupation visas, the agency announced Monday. The H-1B visa is commonly used for occupations requiring highly specialized skills and expertise, and the USCIS assesses whether the position qualifies for the visa. The H-1B program is capped at 85,000 new visas each year. For an H1B visa, you need a job offer from a US employer who’s willing to sponsor you. Since the establishment of the H-1B program in 1990, Congress has set an annual cap on the number of available visas. Your H-1B Expert Opinion Letter from ProfVal can help USCIS agents ascertain: i) whether your position meets specialty occupation requirements (an H-1B is a specialty occupation visa) and ii) whether or how you or your candidate’s credentials meet the criteria for the position offered. Schedule a (beneficiaries) to work in specialty occupations. The E-3 (Australia) program allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers from Australia in the U. In order to be eligible for an H-1B (specialty occupation) visa, the following general requirements must be met: An occupation which requires “theoretical and practical application of a body of highly H1B Specialty Occupation visas are a popular choice for skilled migrant workers and U. Proposed regulations aim to change the lottery system and give workers an equal chance. It’s imperative to file a properly supported Form I-129 petition before the deadline indicated on the selection notice. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. H-1B Specialty Occupations: The occupation requires: Theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and; Attainment of a bachelor's or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. The H-1B specialty occupation visa is a nonimmigrant (temporary) classification that applies to May 13, 2024 · H-1B Specialty Occupations, DOD Cooperative Research and Development Project Workers, and Fashion Models; We Can Help! You may have questions regarding the H1B visa lottery. , and replied back to them with the requested Salaries don't matter for the lottery. Feb 2, 2023 · So let’s take a tour of the new H-1B visa rules, h1b extension new rules, h1b specialty occupation new rules, etc. Applicants must demonstrate theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields such as in IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, science, medicine, and more. Securing an H-1B visa, however, is not a straightforward process. It is the largest visa category in the United States in terms of guest worker numbers. Jan 13, 2022 · USCIS grants H-1B visas to qualifying persons trained and employed in specialty occupations. Important: The lottery registration window for the FY 2025 H-1B cap season will open on March 6, 2024 . Duration: 3 days ago · USCIS has revamped the H-1B program, focusing on stricter "specialty occupation" definitions, third-party placement rules, and increased site visits. The time to start is now, and with pending program … Continue reading "The Complete 2018 H1B Visa Guide" Mar 27, 2023 · US Citizenship and Immigration Services received enough online registrations for specialty occupation H-1B visas to carry out a random lottery to pick recipients, the agency announced Monday. Employers face heightened scrutiny and must adjust recruitment strategies, emphasizing job-specific An employer can sponsor an employee for an H-1B visa to temporarily work in the United States in a specialty occupation. wgtieo fqgucv szv isnz rwzeg hpz uxqfc bxzvn bhot nvjd