Understanding immigration matters can be complicated, and you are not alone. For the uninitiated, H1B visa is a type of employment-based visa for foreign workers willing to find work in the US. In case of employment-based, the employer must make a job offer to the concerned professional, after proving that equally skilled US workers were not available for the role. The employer is required to file the H1B visa petition. Businesses often need to hire foreign workers for selected roles, and many companies work directly with immigration attorneys. Working with a reliable law firm, or business immigration lawyer in Dallas, can help in many ways. Here are some things to know about the H1B visa in general.
The basics
The H1B visa, like other visas, is issued by The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, and every year there is a cap on that. A total of 65,000 H1B visas are granted in a given year, and additional 20,000 H1B visas are available for qualified people, who have completed their Master’s degree, from a university in the United States. There are deadlines, and employers are required to complete the formalities within that time. The cost of filing – called the filing fee for H1B visa – is to be paid by the employer.
Facts for employees
A foreign worker in the US on a H1B visa can stay in the country for three years, following which their stay can be extended to another 3 years. Also, on the H1B visa, employees can choose to travel in and out of the country as many times as needed H1B visa holders can bring their unmarried children and spouse on the H4 visa, for the same duration. Employees also have the scope to apply for Permanent Residence (Green Card) later, depending on the circumstances.
Do you need an attorney?
Hiring an immigration lawyer does add to the cost of hiring foreign talent, but the advantages are real. First and foremost, understanding immigration laws, which often change, can be hard, and since there are timelines to be adhered to, employers find it easy to work with a lawyer. A skilled immigration lawyer knows the legal aspects, will take necessary steps to complete the extensive paperwork, and ensure that clients get the support they need.
For finding a reliable immigration lawyer, you can check online. The first consultation with an attorney is usually free, and it makes room for discussing relevant aspects.
