If you’re someone who works in a technical field, you may have heard of the H1B Visa STEM. This visa program is designed to bring foreign workers with skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to the United States to work for American companies. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the H1B Visa STEM, including its requirements, application process, and benefits.

Key Takeaways

• H1B Visa STEM is a visa program aimed at attracting foreign workers with technical skills to work in the United States.
• There is an annual cap on the number of H1B visas that can be issued each year.
• H1B Visa STEM applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a technical field and be sponsored by an American company.
• The application process can be complex and requires extensive documentation, so it’s advisable to work with an immigration attorney to help you navigate it.
• H1B Visa STEM holders can work in the United States for up to six years and have the option of bringing their family members with them.

Requirements

To be eligible for the H1B Visa STEM, you must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a technical field from an accredited university. Your degree must be related to the job you’ll be performing in the United States. Additionally, you must have a job offer from an American company that is willing to sponsor your visa application.

There is an annual cap on the number of H1B Visas that can be issued each year, which is currently set at 85,000. This cap is divided into two segments, with 65,000 visas available for applicants with a Bachelor’s degree or higher, and an additional 20,000 visas for foreign workers who have earned a Master’s degree or higher from an American university.

Application Process

The H1B Visa application process can be complex and requires extensive documentation. Your sponsoring company must submit an application on your behalf, including proof that you meet the visa requirements and that the job offer is legitimate. You’ll need to provide educational transcripts, work experience documentation, and verification of your identity and eligibility to work in the United States.

The application process is highly competitive due to the limited number of visas available each year. Applications are accepted starting in April of each year, and decisions are typically made by late summer or early fall. If your application is approved, you’ll be issued an H1B Visa that allows you to work in the United States for up to three years. The visa can be extended for an additional three years, for a total of six years.

Benefits

H1B Visa STEM holders enjoy several benefits, including the ability to work for some of the most innovative companies in the world. The visa program is highly competitive, and companies must demonstrate that they are unable to find qualified, American workers to fill the position before hiring a foreign worker. This means that H1B Visa STEM holders are highly valued for their technical skills and expertise.

H1B Visa STEM holders also have the option of bringing their family members with them to the United States on an H4 Visa. This visa allows spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 to accompany the H1B Visa holder to the United States. Additionally, H1B Visa STEM holders can apply for permanent residency in the United States, which can lead to U.S. citizenship.

FAQ

Can I change jobs while on an H1B Visa STEM?

Yes, you can change jobs while on an H1B Visa STEM, but the new company must file a new H1B petition on your behalf. You cannot begin working for the new company until the new petition is approved.

How long can I stay in the United States on an H1B Visa STEM?

H1B Visa STEM holders can work in the United States for up to six years. After six years, you must leave the United States for at least one year before you can apply for another H1B Visa.

Can I bring my family with me to the United States on an H1B Visa STEM?

Yes, H1B Visa STEM holders can bring their spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States on an H4 Visa. Your family members are not allowed to work while in the United States on an H4 Visa.

Conclusion

The H1B Visa STEM program is an excellent opportunity for foreign workers with technical skills to work for American companies and pursue permanent residency in the United States. However, the application process is complex, and the number of visas available each year is limited, so it’s essential to work with an immigration attorney to help you navigate the process. If you meet the eligibility requirements for the H1B Visa STEM, it’s a visa program that’s well worth considering.