The H-1B visa allows skilled foreign workers to work in the United States for up to 6 years. It is popular in fields like IT, engineering, and healthcare. This guide covers:
Who qualifies for an H-1B visa
Step-by-step application process
Documents you need and How to find employers who sponsor H-1B visas.

 What is the H-1B Visa?

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa for professionals in specialty occupations.

Key Facts:

• Allows you to work in the US for 3 years (can be extended to 6 years)
• Requires a job offer from a US employer
• Employer must file the petition for you
• Limited to 85,000 visas per year (65,000 for general applicants + 20,000 for advanced degree holders)

Who Needs an H-1B Visa?

• IT professionals (software engineers, data analysts)
• Engineers (mechanical, electrical, civil)
• Doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers
• Accountants, financial analysts
• University professors and researchers

3. H-1B Visa Requirements

A. Job Requirements

The job must require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field.
The salary must meet the prevailing wage for that job in the US.

B. Applicant Requirements

You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience (3 years of experience = 1 year of college).
Your degree must be related to the job.
You must be offered a job by a US employer.

C. Employer Requirements

The employer must prove they could not find a qualified US worker for the role.
They must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the US Department of Labor.

Step-by-Step H-1B Visa Process

Step 1: Find an H-1B Sponsor

• Search for companies that hire foreign workers.
• Job websites like Shortage Jobs, Indeed, and LinkedIn list H-1B sponsors.
• Look for job postings that say “H-1B sponsorship available“.

Step 2: Get a Job Offer

• Apply for jobs that match your skills.
• During interviews, ask if the company sponsors H-1B visas.

Step 3: Employer Files Labor Condition Application (LCA)

• The employer submits the LCA to the US Department of Labor.
• This proves they will pay you the correct wage.

Step 4: Employer Files H-1B Petition

• The employer submits Form I-129 to USCIS.
• Must be filed between April 1-7 (for October 1 start date).

Step 5: Lottery Selection (If Needed)

• If too many applications are received, USCIS holds a random lottery.
• Only selected applications are processed.

Step 6: Visa Approval & Interview

• If approved, you apply for the visa at a US embassy/consulate.
• Attend a visa interview with:
  Passport
  Approval notice (Form I-797)
  Job offer letter
  Proof of qualifications

Step 7: Enter the US & Start Working

• The visa is valid from October 1.
• You can stay for 3 years, with extensions up to 6 years.

5. Documents Needed for H-1B Visa

For the Employer:

Job offer letter
Labor Condition Application (LCA) approval
Company tax and financial documents

For the Worker:

Passport (valid for 6+ months)
Degree certificates (or equivalency evaluation)
Resume/CV
Previous work experience letters
Pay slips (if any)

For the Visa Interview:

Form DS-160 confirmation
Visa appointment letter
Passport-sized photos
Proof of ties to home country (optional)

H-1B Visa Costs

Total Cost: Between 1,100−1,100−2,650 (depending on company size).

7. Finding H-1B Sponsorship Jobs

Here are Top Websites for H-1B Jobs:

1. Shortage Jobs – Find jobs with visa sponsorship
2. H1B Salary Database to find Lists companies that sponsor H-1B
3. MyVisaJobs to Tracks H-1B employers
4. Indeed  Search for “H-1B sponsorship” jobs

Top Companies That Sponsor H-1B Visas:

Google, Microsoft, Amazon (tech jobs)
Deloitte, PwC (accounting/finance)
Hospitals & universities (healthcare/education)

Pro Tip: Apply to large companies (they have more visa experience).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for an H-1B visa myself?
A: No, only a US employer can file the petition for you.

Q: What is the H-1B lottery?
A: If USCIS gets too many applications, they randomly pick which ones to process.

Q: Can my family come with me?
A: Yes, your spouse and children under 21 can get H-4 visas.

Q: Can I change jobs on an H-1B?
A: Yes, but your new employer must file a new H-1B petition.

Q: What happens after 6 years?
A: You must leave the US or apply for a green card if eligible.

If you meet the requirements, the H-1B visa is a great way to work in the US. Looking for H-1B sponsorship jobs? visit out job boad shortagejobs.com for the latest opportunities!