H-1B Visa

H-1B Visa Attorney in Bethesda, Maryland

A type of employment visa, H-1B visas are one of the most common work-related visas requested by professionals seeking employment in the United States. At the Law Offices of Howard T. Mei in Bethesda, Maryland, we can guide you through the process of obtaining an H-1B visa. For additional information, please review the points below or contact our office to schedule an appointment.

H-1B Visa FAQ

Section 1010(a)(15)(H)(i)(b) of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA), 8 USCA §1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b), classifies a nonimmigrant as an alien who is coming to the United States temporarily to perform services in a “specialty occupation” for which he or she is qualified.

1. What is H-1B Visa?
H-1B visa is the most commonly sought working visa for professionals who come to the United States to perform specialty positions.

2. What is the professional position for H-1B visa?
Generally, the professional position (specialty position) includes the following, but is not limited to: Architects, computer professionals, engineers, lawyers, accountants, business managers, and science researchers. A specialty position is defined as (1) theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and (2) attainment of a bachelor’s degree or higher degree in the specific specialty, or its equivalency.

3. How do I qualify for the H-1B visa?
First, you will need a bachelor degree or its equivalency. Second, you will need a job offer for a specialty position from an employer in the United States. Third, your educational background and/or working experience need to be related to the position offered.

4. How long is the processing time to get the visa?
It depends on the case load of the government. You can also use Premium Processing for an additional filing fee to the government and the application will be adjudicated in 15 calendar days.

5. How long can I stay in the United States if the visa is issued to me?
The H-1B visa will be issued for three years and can be extended for six years. If there is a permanent residency application pending, you might be able to extend the visa to more than 6 years.

6. How many times can I change the employment?
There are no limits on how many times you can change your employment during the 6 years time period of your H-1B visa.

7. Can my family join me after I get my H-1B?
Your spouse or children can get H-4 visas.

8. What documents should I prepare?
You should have your college diploma, transcripts, and a copy of your passport ready. We will also need to know your prospective employer’s business name, address, telephone number, and fax number.

H-1B for Fashion Models

This is a special category of H-1B visa. The basic requirements for the visa include:

(1) The alien has achieved national or international recognition and acclaim for outstanding achievement in his or her field as evidenced by review of major newspapers, trade journals, magazines, or other published materials;

(2) The alien has performed and will perform services as a fashion model for employers with a distinguished reputation;

(3) The alien has achieved recognition for significant achievement from organizations, critics, fashion houses, modeling agencies, or other recognized experts in the field; or

(4) The alien commands a high salary or other substantial remuneration for services evidenced by contracts or other reliable evidence.

Contact an H-1B visa lawyer at the Law Office of Howard T. Mei today for more information on filing for a H-1B visa.

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