How to Get an H-1B Visa to Work in the United States?
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.
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
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.
Average times from the approval of the background information sent by the client until the documentation is ready for the Consular Appointment.
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.
Process visibility
You will find all your processes in one place, with summary, estimated date and more.
Additionally, you will be able to see the status of each process in real time, send us information we request, and access other features that will streamline your experience.
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Initial consultation free
We offer you a free consultation to evaluate your eligibility, without commitment or additional costs.