USA Skilled Workers Visa Application Form

The United States offers several visa options for skilled workers, with the most common being the H-1B visa.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you successfully complete the H-1B visa application form.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the H-1B visa, which include:

• Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a specialty occupation.
• Specialty Occupation: The job must require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field.
• Educational Qualifications: You must have the necessary degree or equivalent work experience in the related field.
• Employer Sponsorship: Your employer must be willing to sponsor you and file the petition on your behalf.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents before starting the application:

• Passport: A valid passport.
• Educational Credentials: Degree certificates, transcripts, and any professional licenses.
• Job Offer Letter: A formal job offer from your U.S. employer.
• Resume/CV: Detailed curriculum vitae or resume.
• Previous Employment Letters: Letters from previous employers detailing your work experience.
• Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, to be filled out by your employer.

Step 3: Employer Files Form I-129

1. Labor Condition Application (LCA):
   • Your employer must first file an LCA with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) using Form ETA 9035E.
   • The LCA ensures that your employer will pay you the prevailing wage and that your employment will not negatively impact the working conditions of U.S. workers.
2. Prepare Form I-129:
   • Once the LCA is approved, your employer will prepare Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker).
   • This form includes information about you, the employer, the job, and your qualifications.
3. Submit Form I-129:
   • Your employer submits the completed Form I-129 to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the required supporting documents and filing fees.

Step 4: Wait for USCIS Decision

USCIS will review the petition and may request additional information or documentation. If the petition is approved, you will receive Form I-797 (Notice of Action), which indicates that you are eligible to apply for the H-1B visa.

Step 5: Apply for the H-1B Visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

1. Complete Form DS-160:
   • Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to complete Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
   • You will need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph as part of the DS-160.
2. Pay the Visa Application Fee:
   • Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. The amount varies by country, so check the specific fee for your location.
3. Schedule a Visa Interview:
   • Schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Wait times for interview appointments can vary, so schedule as early as possible.

Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview

1. Prepare for the Interview:
   • Gather all necessary documents, including:
     • Form I-797 (Notice of Action)
     • Form DS-160 confirmation page
     • Visa application fee receipt
     • Passport
     • Passport-sized photograph
     • Educational credentials
     • Job offer letter
     • Resume/CV
     • Previous employment letters
2. Attend the Interview:
   • Attend the visa interview at the scheduled time. Be prepared to answer questions about your job, qualifications, and employer.
   • The consular officer will review your application and supporting documents.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa

If your visa is approved, the consular officer will place a visa stamp in your passport. You will receive your passport with the visa either immediately or within a few days, depending on the consulate’s procedures.

Step 8: Travel to the United States

• Travel Arrangements: Make travel arrangements to the United States.
• Port of Entry: At the port of entry, present your visa and Form I-797 to the immigration officer.
• I-94 Form: You will receive an I-94 Form (Arrival/Departure Record), which indicates your authorized stay in the U.S.

Step 9: Start Your Employment

• Report to Employer: Report to your employer and start your employment as per the terms of the H-1B visa.
• Maintain Status: Ensure you maintain your H-1B status by complying with all visa conditions, including working only for the sponsoring employer and updating USCIS with any changes in employment status.

Step 10: Extension or Change of Status

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial period granted or change your status to another visa category, you must file the appropriate forms with USCIS well before your current visa expires.

By following these steps carefully, you can successfully fill out the USA Skilled Workers Visa application form and move closer to achieving your dream of working in the United States.

Ensure you stay informed about any changes in the application process and seek professional advice if needed.