How to Apply for a Temporary Specialty Worker Visa

Applying for a temporary specialty worker visa, also known as the H-1B visa, can be a complex process. Here are the steps you need to follow to apply for this visa:

1. Find a sponsoring employer: To apply for an H-1B visa, you need to have a sponsoring employer in the United States. The employer must submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the U.S. Department of Labor, certifying that they will pay you the prevailing wage for the position you will be filling.

2. Check if you meet the requirements: You must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for an H-1B visa. These include having a bachelor's degree or higher (or equivalent work experience), working in a specialty occupation, and being offered a job that requires your specialized knowledge and skills.

3. File a petition: Once your sponsoring employer has obtained the certified LCA, they can file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. The petition must include various documents, including your academic transcripts, resume, and evidence of your work experience.

4. Wait for approval: USCIS will review your petition and either approve or deny it. If approved, you will receive a notice of approval (Form I-797). This notice will include the dates of your authorized stay in the United States and any limitations or conditions on your employment.

5. Apply for a visa: If you are outside the United States, you will need to apply for an H-1B visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. You will need to bring your Form I-797, along with other required documents, to the visa interview.

6. Enter the United States: Once you have your visa, you can enter the United States and begin working for your sponsoring employer.

It is important to note that the H-1B visa is subject to an annual cap, which means that there are only a limited number of visas available each fiscal year. Additionally, the application process can take several months, so it is important to begin the process well in advance of your intended start date.