What is the H1 visa and how does it work?

What is the H1 visa and how does it work?

What Is the H1 Visa? The H1 visa is a work permit visa that lets foreign nationals with special skills and education work in the United States. It’s not a green card visa that will let you stay indefinitely, but it can last for up to six years. H1 visas are popular because they are easier to get than green cards.

How do I check the status of my H-1B visa application?

The USCIS is the official governing body and processor of H-1B visas. If you have already applied for an H-1B visa, you can check the status of the application by checking with the USCIS website. The USCIS uses the H-1B Visa Status Tracking System to determine the status of your application.

What is an approved petition for H1B visa?

This approved petition is a work permit which allows you to obtain a visa stamp and work in the U.S. for that employer. The H1B visa is issued for a specialty occupation, requires theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge and requires the visa holder to have at least a Bachelors degree or its equivalent.

What is the H1 visa for software engineers?

H1 visa allows U.S. employers to hire temporary workers in specialty occupations such as software engineers. H1 visa allows the holder’s spouse and minor children under the age of 21 years to accompany them to the U.S. on H4 visa.

Can a H-1B visa holder become a permanent resident?

H-1B and path to permanent residency. Even though the H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa, it is one of the few temporary visa categories recognized as dual intent, meaning an H-1B holder could legally have an immigration intent (apply for and obtain the green card) while still being a holder of the H-1B visa.

How much does it cost to apply for a H1B visa?

US Embassies take time to process each request, so the earlier you make the appointment, the better it will be for you. Pay the H1B visa fees. The application fee is $190. Submit required documents for H1B Visa. Attend the H1B interview.

How do I extend my H-1B visa after 6 years?

To get an extension after six years, H-1B visa holders must apply for employment -based permanent residence. This is also known as a green card. Aliens working on projects for the Department of Defense may receive H-1B status for up to 10 years. You can get an H-1B restamping at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate after approval.