H-1B Visa Guide: Your Quick Start to Working in the US

Thinking about moving to the United States for a tech job or another skilled role? The H-1B visa is the most common route, but the process can feel like a maze. Below you’ll find a plain‑English walk‑through that shows who qualifies, how the filing works, and what you can do today to improve your chances.

Who Can Apply for an H-1B?

The H-1B is meant for people with at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a specialized field. "Specialized" usually means jobs in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, or any role that needs specific knowledge. Your employer must be willing to sponsor you – you can’t file the petition on your own.

There’s a yearly cap of 65,000 visas, plus an extra 20,000 for those with a U.S. master’s degree or higher. Because the demand outstrips supply, a lottery picks the petitions that get processed. That’s why timing and a clean application matter.

Application Process & Practical Tips

Here’s the step‑by‑step rundown most employers follow:

• Job offer and LCA: Your future boss files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor. The LCA confirms that hiring you won’t hurt U.S. workers’ wages.
• Gather documents: You’ll need a copy of your degree, transcripts, detailed job description, and proof of any prior work experience.
• Petition filing: The employer submits Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) to USCIS, along with filing fees and supporting evidence.
• Lottery: If the cap is reached, USCIS runs the lottery. Selected petitions move forward; the rest are denied.
• Approval & Visa stamping: Once approved, you apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate, attend an interview, and get the stamp in your passport.

Tips to boost your odds:

• Target employers with a history of H-1B filings. Large tech firms and consulting companies often have streamlined processes.
• Show strong ties to your field. Detailed project work, certifications, or publications make your petition stand out.
• Consider master’s‑cap opportunities. If you have a U.S. advanced degree, you fall into the extra 20,000 slot.
• Start early. The filing window opens in early March. Getting your paperwork ready weeks before can prevent last‑minute rushes.

While you wait for the lottery, keep the job hunt active. Use job portals that filter for H-1B sponsorship, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and specialized sites like H1Bdata.info. Networking in industry groups or alumni circles can uncover hidden openings that aren’t posted publicly.

Don’t forget to polish your resume for the U.S. market. Focus on measurable achievements, use clear headings, and avoid jargon that’s common only in your home country. A well‑crafted cover letter that explains why you’re a perfect fit for the role also helps the employer justify the sponsorship.

Once you land an interview, be ready to discuss the H-1B process. Employers appreciate candidates who understand the timeline and can provide the required documents quickly. It shows you’re serious and reduces the administrative burden on their HR team.

After you get the visa, the real work begins – staying compliant with the terms of your H-1B. Keep your job description accurate, file extensions before the current visa expires, and consider the path to a green card if you plan to stay long term.

At Discover Fresh Careers, we list thousands of positions that mention H-1B sponsorship. Our filters let you see only the roles that fit your skill set and visa needs, saving you hours of scrolling. Sign up, upload your resume, and let our matching engine connect you with employers ready to sponsor your next move.

Bottom line: the H-1B isn’t simple, but with the right preparation, you can boost your odds dramatically. Get your documents in order, target experienced sponsors, and keep the job search active. The U.S. tech market is hungry for talent – make sure you’re ready when the opportunity appears.