How to Get a US Work Visa (H1B, L1)?
How to Get a US Work Visa (H1B, L1) – Complete 2025 Guide
✅ Quick Summary: US Work Visa Requirements
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Processing Time | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| H1B | Bachelor’s degree + job offer | 3–6 months | 6 years |
| L1 | Worked abroad for 1+ year (same employer) | 1–4 months | 7 years |
| O1 | Extraordinary ability | 2–6 months | 3 years (renewable) |
🔗 Official Portal: USCIS Work Visas
📌 Step 1: Choose the Right Work Visa
1. H1B Visa (For Skilled Workers)
- Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (or 12+ years experience)
- Job offer in a specialty occupation (IT, engineering, medicine)
- Employer files Labor Condition Application (LCA)
- Quota: 85,000/year (65K general + 20K advanced degree)
2. L1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)
- Requirements:
- Worked 1+ year for a foreign branch of a US company
- Transferring as manager (L1A) or specialized knowledge (L1B)
- No quota (Faster processing)
3. O1 Visa (Extraordinary Talent)
- For Nobel winners, athletes, artists, top researchers
- Must prove national/international recognition
📝 Step 2: Employer Files Petition
- Labor Certification (H1B only)
- Employer proves no qualified US applicants (via LCA).
- Form I-129
- Filed by employer with USCIS (460–4,500 fee).
⏳ Processing Time:
- Premium Processing: 15 days ($2,805 extra)
- Standard: 3–6 months
🛂 Step 3: Apply for Visa Stamp (DS-160)
- Complete DS-160 online (CEAC Portal).
- Pay MRV fee (190–205).
- Schedule interview at US embassy.
📌 Interview Documents:
- Passport
- I-797 approval notice
- Employment letter
- Degree certificates
❓ Common Questions
1. Can I change jobs on an H1B?
Yes, but new employer must file a new H1B petition.
2. Can L1 visa lead to a Green Card?
Yes! L1A holders can apply for EB1C (no labor cert needed).
3. What’s the H1B lottery chance?
~30% (Due to high demand).
