H-1B1 Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Professional Visa
The H-1B1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category available for citizens of Singapore and Chile who wish to work in the United States in specialty occupations. Here’s everything you need to know about the H-1B1 visa:
Key Features of the H-1B1 Visa:
Eligibility:
The H-1B1 visa is available to citizens of Singapore and Chile who have a job offer in the U.S. in a specialty occupation. The applicant must meet the same requirements as the H-1B visa category but is exempt from the annual visa lottery.
Employer Sponsorship:
To obtain the H-1B1 visa, an employer in the United States must sponsor the applicant by filing a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications, including possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field. The job offer must require specialized knowledge or skills relevant to the applicant’s qualifications.
Cap and Availability:
Unlike the H-1B visa, the H-1B1 visa does not have an annual cap, which means eligible applicants can apply throughout the year without being subject to a lottery.
Duration:
Initially, the H-1B1 visa is typically granted for up to one year, with the possibility of extension in one-year increments. Extensions may be granted as long as the applicant continues to meet visa requirements.
Employment Conditions:
Employers must comply with prevailing wage requirements and provide a working environment that meets labor standards. Additionally, employers must ensure that hiring an H-1B1 worker does not negatively impact U.S. workers.
Dependents:
H-1B1 visa holders’ spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old may accompany them to the U.S. under the H-4 visa category. However, dependents are not permitted to work unless they obtain separate work authorization.
Transition to Permanent Residency:
H-1B1 visa holders may pursue lawful permanent residency (green card) in the U.S. through employment-based immigration channels if they meet eligibility criteria.
Why Choose Visa Aid for H-1B1 Visa Assistance?
Navigating the H-1B1 visa process requires careful attention to eligibility criteria and compliance with regulations. At Visa Aid, we provide expert guidance to both employers and prospective employees, ensuring a smooth and successful visa application process.
Application Process for the H-1B1 Visa:
- Employer Petition: The U.S. employer must file a petition with USCIS for the H-1B1 visa. This petition includes detailed information about the applicant’s qualifications and the job offer.
- Labor Condition Application (LCA): The employer must submit an LCA to the U.S. Department of Labor to ensure the applicant will be employed under fair working conditions and wages.
- Visa Application: Once the petition is approved, applicants must apply for the H-1B1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, providing documents such as the approved petition, passport, and visa application fee.
- Approval and Entry: If the visa is approved, the applicant can travel to the U.S. and begin employment in the specialty occupation.
Contact Visa Aid Today for Expert Visa Assistance
With the H-1B1 visa process being highly detailed, we recommend consulting with experienced immigration professionals. Let Visa Aid assist you in making the process smooth and compliant.
