H-1B specialty occupation
For: Jobs that require at least a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a specific specialty
- A US employer files a petition (Form I-129) after a Labor Condition Application is certified by the Department of Labor
- Bachelor's or higher degree in the specialty, or equivalent experience
- Annual cap of 65,000 (plus 20,000 for US master's graduates); cap-subject cases need a selected electronic registration
- Since 21 September 2025 certain petitions for workers outside the US need an extra $100,000 payment (subject to ongoing court orders – see USCIS)
- Length
- Up to 3 years, extendable to a total of 6 years
Source: USCIS – H-1B Specialty Occupations (uscis.gov).
What the source says
"The H-1B classification has an annual numerical limit (cap) of 65,000 new statuses or visas each fiscal year" … "An additional 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries who have earned a master’s degree or higher from a U.S. institution of higher education are exempt from the cap." … "you may generally be admitted for a period of up to 3 years. This initial period of admission may generally be extended for an additional period of up to 3 years, for a total period of admission of 6 years." … "must be accompanied by an additional $100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility."