H-1B is a nonimmigrant classification issued by USCIS to an alien to work in the United States for a temporary period in a specialty occupation or as a fashion model of distinguished merit and ability. A specialty occupation is one that requires a minimum of a U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent. Occupations in this category include software engineers, systems analysts, computer programmers, other computer professionals, engineers, architects, teachers, accountants, researchers, scientists, etc.

Currently, H-1B worldwide annual quota is 65,000 (out of which 6,800 are reserved for nationals of Singapore and Chile). In addition to this number, 20,000 H-1B visas are available for graduates of master's degree programs of US graduate schools.

H-1B visas are usually granted for an initial period of three years, and can be extended for a further three years. After completion of six years on H1B classification, the alien must remain outside the US for one year before he/she can be given another H1B classification to enter the US again. However, extensions beyond a period of six years will be given if an application for Labor Certification has been pending for a period of 365 days or more, or an employment-based immigrant visa petition is approved on behalf of such alien.

An alien on H1-B classification may work only for the sponsoring employer and only in the job classification/job duties listed on the Petition. If the H1-B alien wants to work for more than one US employer concurrently, each of such employers should have an H1-B Petition approved on behalf of the alien.

An alien on H-1B classification is permitted to travel outside the US and reenter during the validity period of the H-1B visa stamp on his/her passport.

An alien may start the process towards obtaining Lawful Permanent Residence in the US (Green Card) without affecting the H1B status.

For Frequently Asked Questions,  click here.