Are you planning to work in the U.S. in 2026 under the H-1B visa? This slide presentation breaks down the entire process in a simple, visual format — from eligibility requirements to the critical registration timeline and common mistakes to avoid. Inside you'll learn: • What is the H-1B visa? • Why the 2026 season is important • Who can apply and how Full H-1B 2026 timeline • Common mistakes applicants make • Why hiring a legal expert matters If you're serious about landing a job in the U.S. and want your application to stand out, this slide deck is for you. Learn more at: https://lukebowmanlaw.com • Created by Luke Bowman & Associates – Trusted immigration attorneys helping global professionals secure their American dream.

1. H-1B VISA
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa allowing U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. It
is essential for tech, engineering, healthcare, and academic sectors, enabling skilled professionals to bridge
workforce shortages in the U.S.

2. An H-1B visa applicant must have
a job offer from a U.S. employer
who sponsors the application.
Generally, the H-1B visa is valid for
three years, with possibilities of
extension up to six years.
Definition and Purpose
Introduction to H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa is designed for
foreign workers in specialty
occupations requiring at least a
bachelor's degree.
Sponsorship Requirement
Validity Period

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Applicants must have at least a
bachelor’s degree or its
equivalent in the relevant field.
Relevant work experience may
substitute in some cases.
Educational
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria for Specialty Occupation
The role must involve a
specialty occupation, typically
requiring extensive knowledge
in fields such as IT, engineering,
healthcare, and finance.
Specialty Occupation
Requirement
Employers must adhere to
labor laws, ensuring fair wages
and that hiring foreign workers
does not negatively impact U.S.
workers.
Employer Compliance

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Submitting Form I-129
Applications may enter a lottery if
they exceed the annual visa cap,
usually requiring submissions in
April.
After LCA approval, employers file
Form I-129 with USCIS, including
supporting documents.
The employer initiates by filing a
Labor Condition Application (LCA)
with the Department of Labor.
Petition Filing
Application Process
Lottery System

5. Filing Fees
Application Window
Visa Issuance Timeline
Important Dates and Fees
Fees include a base filing fee, an additional fee for employers with a significant number of H-1B employees, and
potential fees for premium processing.
The H-1B visa application period typically opens in early April, with a cap reached within days.
Normal processing can take several months, while premium processing guarantees a decision in 15 calendar
days.

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Changing jobs requires a new
petition from the employer,
complicating transitions.
Job Changes
The annual limit of H-1B visas
leads to competition, making it
challenging for applicants.
Challenges and Limitations of H-1B Visa
Potential for Abuse
Concerns exist about companies
hiring foreign workers at lower
wages, impacting U.S. labor
markets.
Visa Cap

7. More rigorous investigations into
H-1B petitions have begun,
leading to longer processing times
and potential denials.
Increasing Scrutiny
U.S. immigration policies
regarding H-1B visas have seen
fluctuations, affecting application
processes and eligibility criteria.
Policy Shifts Focus on STEM
Occupations
Recent Changes and Trends in H-1B Visa
Policies
Recent trends emphasize the
importance of H-1B visas in STEM
fields, as these sectors continue to
experience shortages of qualified
candidates.

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Filling Labor Gaps
Complex application processes and
regulations.
The H-1B visa supports U.S.
economic growth.
Impact of the H-1B Visa Program
Navigating Challenges
Skilled foreign workers address
critical labor shortages.
Vital Role in Economy