What is an H1B Visa Lottery?

America is the land of opportunity, so migrants often seek employment opportunities in the states. There are various types of visas that migrants can apply to obtain a job in the United States. Our legal team at Revilla Law Firm, P.A. has put together important information you should know about H1B visas if you’re seeking employment opportunities in the United States.

What is an H1B Visa?

An H1B visa is a work visa issued by the United States government. On average, the U.S. issues 65,000 H-1B visas every year to people living in other countries. Approximately 6,800 are specifically reserved for people living in Singapore and Chile. If a visa is left unfilled, the openings are not awarded. Instead, they are reserved for the following year. Note, that out of the 65,000 total, 20,000 are specifically for people who have completed their master's degree from an accredited university in the U.S.

What Are the Requirements?

Since the H1B visa is a work visa, certain criteria must be met for approval. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, they must possess extensive knowledge in the field they wish to work in, and the employer who is hiring them needs to demonstrate that they cannot find a suitable candidate locally.

If approved, the visa is good for a minimum of three years. In some cases, it may be extended up to six, or even ten years. Year extensions depend on the type of work that's being performed.

Note, that if at any time you are fired and do not find another job, you will have to go back to your own country or face deportation.

What About My Family?

Under the H1B visa, family unification is allowed. Spouses and children under 21 must complete an H4 application in their home country. Once approved, family members are able to obtain a social security number, work, and have a U.S. bank account. Children are also allowed to attend school. It's important to note that once the H1B visa holder's visa expires, family members will need to return to their home country as well. If you've filed for an H1B visa and been denied, or if you need help understanding the process, we can help.