he U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially announced the eligibility criteria and next application period for the H-1B visa, a key pathway for skilled foreign professionals seeking employment in the United States.
Purpose of the H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa is designed for professionals in specialized occupations who have the required qualifications to perform jobs that require advanced knowledge in specific fields. This visa enables foreign workers to contribute to the U.S. economy, particularly in industries such as technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and research. The visa is also available for distinguished high-fashion models and professionals working on Department of Defense (DOD) research projects.
Eligibility Criteria for H-1B Visa (Specialized Occupations)
To qualify, both the job role and the applicant must meet strict standards:
✔️ Job Requirements:
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- The job must require theoretical and practical application of a specialized body of knowledge.
- A bachelor’s degree or higher in a directly related field is mandatory.
- The position must fall under at least one of the following classifications:
- A bachelor’s degree or higher (or its foreign equivalent) is a standard requirement in the industry.
- The job duties are so specialized and complex that they require expertise equivalent to a U.S. degree.
✔️ Applicant Qualifications:
Applicants must meet at least one of the following:
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- Hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited institution in the required field.
- Possess a foreign degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s or higher degree.
- Have a state-issued unrestricted license, registration, or certification to practice in the field.
- Have progressive work experience or specialized training equivalent to the required degree.
Important: Employers must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) (Form ETA-9035/9035E) with the Department of Labor before submitting Form I-129 for an H-1B petition.
H-1B2 and H-1B3 Visa Categories – Who Qualifies?
USCIS also oversees two additional visa classifications:
✔️ H-1B2: Research & Development for the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
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- Requires a bachelor’s or higher degree.
- Must be accompanied by a DOD project manager’s verification letter confirming the applicant’s role in a government research project.
- No LCA required.
✔️ H-1B3: Haute Couture & Fashion Models
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- Reserved for internationally recognized high-fashion models.
- Requires an LCA from the Department of Labor plus Form I-129.
What You Need to Do Now?
With the strict application timeline and updated eligibility requirements, applicants must prepare well in advance. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
✔️Check your eligibility and gather all required documents.
✔️ Consult an immigration expert or attorney to ensure compliance.
✔️ Employers should complete the Labor Condition Application (LCA) early.
✔️ Mark your calendar and submit your registration before March 24, 2025!
⏳ Don’t wait until the last minute! The H-1B visa process is highly competitive, and early preparation is key to success!
H-1B Visa Application Deadline: March 24, 2025.
Apply: https://www.uscis.gov/es/trabajar-en-los-estados-unidos/h-1b-para-profesionales-con-trabajos-especializados.
