National H1B Visa Services for FY 2026
Each year at Oliver-Zhang Law, we help U.S. employers and skilled foreign professionals navigate the complexities of the H-1B visa program. Whether you are an employer seeking top talent or a professional looking to advance your career, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process.
What is the H-1B Visa Program?
The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers with a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in specialty occupations for a temporary period. These occupations must align with the worker’s field of study and require advanced skills and expertise.
How Does the H1B Visa Lottery Work?
Due to high demand, H-1B visas are subject to an annual cap, requiring a lottery system to determine eligibility for cap-subject petitions. Here’s how it works:
- Electronic Registration Process:
Since 2020, USCIS requires employers to complete an online registration with basic information about the employer and each requested worker. - Fee Update for 2025:
Beginning in FY 2025, the H-1B registration fee is $215 per beneficiary. - Beneficiary-Centric Selection Process:
USCIS conducts the lottery among properly submitted registrations. Only those selected can file H-1B cap-subject petitions.
Once selected, a complete H1B visa application must be submitted by the deadline for USCIS evaluation and approval.
Why Choose Oliver-Zhang Law?
Our experienced team has successfully handled H-1B visa applications across diverse industries and states. We pride ourselves on our proven track record of securing visas for skilled employees while minimizing stress for employers.
Client Testimonial:
A person’s professional standing (i.e., the ability to work in the U.S.) is critical. The federal rules on foreign nationals are tricky to navigate, and the team at Oliver-Zhang Law handles the entire process with aplomb. Without them, my colleague’s work status would be in serious jeopardy. With them, it’s a no-brainer—no chaotic overhead, just successful visas. Phew. Amen to OZL!
— J.L. from MA, H1B Employer Applicant
Offer from Oliver-Zhang Law
We offer FREE electronic registration services (a $450 value) when you retain us for your H-1B application. If your petition is not selected in the lottery, we’ll refund your attorney fees in full.
Annual H-1B Visa Cap
The H-1B program has a limit of 85,000 visas per fiscal year, with 20,000 reserved for individuals holding advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.
How Long Can You Hold an H-1B Visa?
An H-1B visa is valid for up to six years, issued in increments of up to three years. Extensions beyond six years may be granted for those pursuing employment-based permanent residency (green card).
H-1B Visa Requirements for Employees
- Education: A bachelor’s or higher degree, or equivalent experience. Degrees must be from accredited institutions in the U.S. or abroad.
- Licensing: An unrestricted state license, registration, or certification authorizing full practice in the specialty occupation and the intended state of employment.
What Qualifies as a Specialty Occupation?
To qualify as a specialty occupation, the position must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent is the minimum requirement.
- The degree requirement is common in the industry or specific to the job’s complexity.
- The employer typically requires a degree for the position.
- Job duties are highly specialized and associated with advanced academic knowledge.
Cap-Exempt H-1B Opportunities
If you’re a nonprofit, educational institution, or government research organization, you may qualify for H-1B cap exemptions. Our attorneys are well-versed in navigating these unique cases to help your organization attract top talent year-round.
F-1 to H-1B Transition Assistance
For F-1 students transitioning to H-1B status, we offer guidance to ensure uninterrupted work authorization and compliance. Our proactive approach safeguards your career progression.
We are Here to Help You Succeed in Your H-1B Journey
With years of experience and a proven track record, our work visa attorneys have successfully handled H-1B applications for businesses across the U.S. We help employers secure the skilled talent they need to stay competitive in the global marketplace.
Our team is here to provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring compliance with all regulations and maximizing your chances of success.
Contact Us Today
Let us help you secure the right visa solution for your business or career goals.
📞 Call: (202)-643-1110
📧 Email: [email protected]