Last updated 28 October 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Specialty occupation visa H1B in USA for Belarusian citizens
Visa for professionals in specialty fields
Specialty occupation visa — what you need to know
For professionals in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise, sponsored by a U.S. employer. Typically valid for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 6 years.
A job offer is required in a specialty field that requires a relevant higher education degree
There is no single salary threshold: the employer must pay at least the higher of the two rates — the one established for the occupation and location, or the one applied to comparable employees of the company
Most new applications fall under the annual quota and pre-selection
A weighted lottery applies: priority is given to candidates with higher salaries
The applicant cannot file the petition independently; the U.S. employer files Form I-129 and obtains LCA certification from the Department of Labor
Process: The employer registers you in the lottery (March) → Lottery selection (by March 31) → Employer files LCA (DOL) → Filing I-129 (USCIS) → Approval → Consular processing or change of status → Start of work from October 1
It is possible to relocate with a spouse and unmarried children under 21 under H-4; the spouse may obtain a work permit if an immigrant petition I-140 has been approved
It is possible to apply for a Green Card in parallel if there is a separate immigration basis
H-1B allows changing employers, provided a new petition is filed
Universities, nonprofit research organizations, and related entities do not participate in the lottery and may file petitions year-round
Eligible individuals:
- Professional worker
- Expert
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 3 months to 5 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Strong ties to the country of origin and compelling reasons to return there, ensuring compliance with the terms and duration of stay.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
H
Type of visa
Nonimmigrant visa — R
Category
Temporary worker visas