What employers need to know about H1B visas?
William Smith
Updated on March 31, 2026
Employers need to review the details of the proposed job to ensure it meets the requirements of the H-1B visa program. The job must require a bachelor’s degree or higher and specialized knowledge in the field of the occupation. They’ll also need to determine the pay rate for the H-1B worker.
Are universities subject to H1B cap?
Only institutions that meet the statutory description in 20 U.S.C. 1101(a) qualify for H1B cap exemption purposes. Notably, this means that “for profit” colleges and universities do not qualify for H1B cap exemption purposes.
Are universities exempt from H1B cap?
Most institutions of higher education (colleges and universities) are exempt from the H-1B numerical limitations, and can therefore file H-1B petitions at any time throughout the year, regardless of whether the H-1B cap has already been met for that particular year. …
How much does H1B visa cost?
Standard H1B Filing Fee is currently – $460. The standard H1B filing fee is for the 1-129 petition. H1B visa base filing fee is set to increase by 21% from $460 USD to $555. The proposed fee increase will be effective from October 2nd, 2020.
Who is subject to H1B cap?
The regular H-1B visa cap dedicates 65,000 petitions to foreign workers with the required skills and qualifications. An additional 20,000 petitions are allotted to individuals holding advanced degrees at a master’s level or beyond. However, in some cases, H1B applications can be filed without going through the H1B cap.
Who is exempt from H1B cap?
The statute describing who is eligible for an H1B cap exemption is found in section 214(g)(5)(A)-(B) of the INA. Under section 214(g)(5)(A), an alien who is employed or has received an offer of employment from an institution of higher education or a related or affiliated nonprofit entity is exempt from the H1B cap.
What is the new rules for H1B visa?
The new rules mandate that H-1B workers at the lowest wage level must receive at least the 35th percentile of the prevailing wage for their job type and location, an increase from the 17th percentile earlier. Workers at the highest wage level must receive the 90th percentile.
Is it easy to get H1B visa?
How Difficult Is It To Get an H1B Visa? H1B visa requirements can be difficult to meet because you must first be hired by a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor you. H-1B visas are employer-sponsored, which means foreign workers cannot apply for H1B on their own.