H-1B · SPECIALTY OCCUPATIONS

H-1B | Specialty Occupations

The H-1B visa is the premier non-immigrant work visa for professionals in "specialty occupations" that require theoretical or practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge. This category is essential for international talent in fields such as STEM, finance, architecture, law, and the arts seeking to build a career in the United States.

30+ yearsCombined immigration-law experience
5,000+Clients served
500+Matters handled annually
98%Case success rate
5.0Google rating
100%Committed to your immigration goal

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes; every case depends on its own facts and law.

Key Advantages

01

Dual Intent Tolerance

Unlike many other non-immigrant visas, the H-1B allows you to maintain your status while simultaneously pursuing a Green Card (such as EB-2 or EB-3).

02

H-1B Portability (Transfer)

You have the flexibility to change employers. Once a new H-1B petition is filed and a Receipt Notice is issued, you can legally begin working for the new employer immediately.

03

Dependents

Your spouse and children under 21 can accompany you under the H-4 visa category.

04

Predictable Timeline

With the Premium Processing option, you can receive a decision on your petition within 15 business days.

The Lingtu Approach: Precision & Strategy

Lingtu Law focuses each H-1B petition on the issues USCIS reviews most closely, including specialty occupation analysis, wage level strategy, SOC code selection, and degree-to-position mapping.

01

Specialty Occupation Defense

We work closely with employers to draft detailed job descriptions that prove the complexity of the role, ensuring it meets the requirement for a bachelor's degree or higher.

02

LCA & Wage Strategy

Our attorneys evaluate prevailing wage levels and select the most appropriate SOC codes to minimize the risk of a Request for Evidence (RFE).

03

Complex Evidence Mapping

For candidates with degrees that do not perfectly match their job title, we provide expert mapping of coursework and experience to satisfy USCIS standards.

H-1B Transfer Process (Moving to a New Employer)

01

Day 1: Onboarding & Document Collection

The new employer initiates the process, and the employee provides their passport, most recent H-1B approval notice, I-94, and recent pay stubs.

02

Days 2–10: LCA Filing & Approval

The attorney files the Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor, which typically takes 7–10 business days for approval.

03

Day 15–30: Petition Submission

The attorney submits the I-129 Transfer Petition package to USCIS.

04

Submission + 3 Days: Start Working

Upon receiving the USCIS Receipt Notice (I-797C), you may legally start working for the new employer—you do not need to wait for the final approval.

Eligibility Requirements

For the Employer

  • U.S. Entity: The company must be established in the U.S. and have a valid EIN.
  • Physical Location: The employer must have a physical commercial address.
  • Wage Compliance: The employer must offer a salary that meets or exceeds the prevailing wage for the specific position and location.

For the Employee

  • Academic Qualifications: You must hold a bachelor's degree or higher (from the U.S. or a foreign equivalent).
  • Valid Status: You must hold a valid passport and, if currently in the U.S., maintain valid legal status.

Legal Fee Structure

Legal fees are quoted after an attorney reviews the facts, complexity, and scope of the H-1B matter.

Full Representation

Attorney assessment required

  • Includes: Full case preparation, LCA filing, and Petition submission.
  • Includes: Handling of a standard Request for Evidence (RFE).
  • Expert Opinion Letter requirements and related professional costs are discussed during the assessment.
  • A fully refundable option is available: the Expert Opinion Letter is covered in full and the Service Fee is refunded if the H-1B application is denied.

USCIS Official Filing Fees (Current for 2026)

Please note that USCIS filing fees are separate from legal fees:

Small Company (≤25 employees)

  • $2,010

Big Company (>25 employees)

  • $3,380

Premium Processing (Optional)

  • $2,965 (15-day adjudication)

H-1B Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Legal guidance, in the language you know best.

Your initial inquiry is confidential. Our team will contact you within one business day to arrange an attorney review.

Schedule a ConsultationCall 415·547·9999Monday–Friday, 9:00–18:00 Pacific Time