Is the H-1B Still a Random Lottery?
No. The H-1B no longer works as a random lottery. It is now governed by a weighted selection system where factors such as salary, seniority, and education determine the probability of selection.
Offered Salary Level
Higher wages receive more points in the weighted selection system
U.S. Master's or PhD
Advanced degrees from U.S. universities access 20,000 additional slots and higher scores
Job Specialty Alignment
Role must closely match the SOC and specialty occupation
Employer Compliance History
Clean immigration and payroll history strengthens the case
Change of Status (COS) in the U.S.
If you already have valid U.S. status, you avoid the $100,000 fee and consular processing risks.
H-1B Visas available per year
85,000
65,000 regular visas + 20,000 additional slots for holders of a U.S. Master's or PhD.
New points-based system
The new system replaces the random draw with a points-based model. This benefits professionals with competitive salaries and advanced degrees earned in the U.S.
We help you negotiate a competitive salary aligned with the prevailing wage level in your area to maximize your score.
When and How to Apply for an H-1B Visa?
Learn about the key stages of the process and the official USCIS registration dates.
H-1B Process Timeline
Official registration period
March 4 – 19
Electronic registration with USCIS takes place exclusively during this annual window. Outside this period, it is not possible to enter the H-1B lottery.
Dual-intent visa
The H-1B is a dual-intent visa: it allows you to work legally in the U.S. and subsequently apply for a Green Card without affecting your immigration status. We guide you through the entire process.
Registration closes March 19
Book your consultation before that date so we can help you with your H-1B process.
What Do You Need to Apply for an H-1B Visa?
Requirements, stages, and timelines from application to your consular appointment
Lottery Submission
Lottery Confirmation
LCA & Submission I-129
Consular Appointment
Basic Requirements
- Job offer from a U.S. employer (sponsor)
- Professional degree (Bachelor's or higher) in the required specialty
- The position must qualify as a "specialty occupation" according to USCIS
Processing
Variable according to USCIS calendar.
With Premium Processing option: 15 business days.
Duration
Initial period of 3 years, renewable up to a maximum of 6 years.
How Much Does the H-1B Visa Cost in 2026?
Breakdown of government fees required by USCIS for the H-1B petition
Already have valid U.S. immigration status?
If you currently hold a valid immigration status in the United States, you are not subject to the $100,000 Presidential Proclamation fee. This benefit applies to those filing a Change of Status (COS) from within the country.
Base Filing I-129 fee
Adjusted fee for H-1B (significant increase from $460 under the USCIS final fee rule effective Apr 1, 2024)
ACWIA Fee (Workforce Training Fee)
$750 for fewer than 25 employees, $1,500 for more than 25 employees. No change reported in 2026 schedule.
Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee
No change reported in 2026 schedule.
Asylum Program Fee
$300 for fewer than 25 employees, $600 for more than 25 employees. No change reported in 2026 schedule.
Public Law 114-113 fee (if applicable)
Applies to employers with 50+ U.S. employees where more than 50% are on H-1B/L-1 status; unchanged.
Premium Processing fee (optional)
New premium processing fee for petitions postmarked on or after March 1, 2026 (increased from $2,805)
Additional Presidential Proclamation Fee (new)
One-time fee of $100,000 imposed on new H-1B petitions filed after Sept 21, 2025. Does not apply if you already hold valid U.S. status and file a Change of Status.
Monitor your process in real time
Access an exclusive platform where you can stay updated on each step of the process.
You will find all your processes in one place, with summary, estimated date and more.
Real people, real results
The voices of those already working in the USA — and the media that covered how they got there.
"Constant support throughout the process. Visability guided and supported me throughout this stage, their team has the necessary experience to successfully carry out this key process for our new challenge."
"Great service from an experienced team! Visability's immigration team has deep knowledge on immigration issues, most of answered were based on previous experiences. This gave me a lot of peace of mind during this delicate process."
"Very fast process and extremely efficient teamwork The service I received was always very personalized, with great attention to details, really. I was informed of the status of my process at every step. Got the Visa in my hand in 3 weeks!"
"Amazing, everything was very fast and well done. The friendliness and willingness to help is quite good. I got my Visa in 1 month."
"Fast, the whole process from confirmation to completion between 2 and 4 weeks. Effective, all external and internal embassy processes were done very well, studied and prepared."
"Very good from the start until the end. Always concerned, attentive, receptive, executives and friendly."
"Working with Visability was incredible. The whole team was in contact with me at all times. They guided me through each step of the process and I am very happy with the results."
The media confirms it
Don't just take our word for it — the press has covered how we help Chilean professionals work in the USA.
Initial consultation free
We offer you a free consultation to evaluate your eligibility, without commitment or additional costs.
Alliances and Memberships
Our alliances allow us to accompany you from the first step to your arrival in USA.