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🇺🇸 United States

H1B Visa

Specialty occupation visa for workers in professional roles requiring at minimum a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Subject to annual cap of 85,000 (65,000 regular + 20,000 US master's). MAJOR 2026 CHANGES: New wage-weighted lottery system (effective Feb 27, 2026) favors higher-paid positions - Level 4 wages get 4x selection odds vs Level 1. $100,000 supplemental fee required for new petitions (effective Sept 21, 2025) - exempts extensions, amendments, and change of status from within US. Requires employer sponsorship, LCA, and specialty occupation proof. Valid 3 years initially, extendable to 6 years. Premium processing: $2,965 (as of March 1, 2026). Dual intent visa.

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Processing Time

3-6 months (standard), 15 business days (premium)

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Cost

$1,385 base + $500 fraud fee + $600 asylum fee + $100,000 supplemental (new petitions) + optional $2,965 premium

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Duration

3 years initial, up to 6 years total

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Work Rights

Tied to sponsoring employer only

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Path to Permanent Residence

Yes

Requirements

  • 1Job offer in specialty occupation
  • 2Bachelor's degree or equivalent in related field
  • 3Employer files LCA with DOL
  • 4Employer files I-129 petition
  • 5Pay prevailing wage for occupation and area
  • 6$100,000 supplemental fee (new petitions from abroad)

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