H-1B Specialty Occupation vs H-1B1 Specialty Occupation

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to your nationality and long-term goals. The H-1B is the standard path for skilled workers worldwide, but the H-1B1 offers a streamlined alternative if you're a Singapore or Chile national. Both require employer sponsorship, but they differ significantly in cost, processing speed, and immigration trajectory.

1. 01

   Your nationality

   Pick H-1B

   Choose H-1B if you're not a Singapore or Chile citizen. It's open to all nationalities with employer sponsorship.

   Pick H-1B1

   Choose H-1B1 only if you hold Singapore or Chilean citizenship. It's restricted to these two countries.

2. 02

   Avoiding the lottery

   Pick H-1B

   Choose H-1B if you're comfortable with the annual cap and lottery system affecting your odds.

   Pick H-1B1

   Choose H-1B1 if you want to skip the lottery entirely. It's exempt from the H-1B cap.

3. 03

   Cost and speed

   Pick H-1B

   Choose H-1B if you can budget $2460 and wait 3-6 months for processing to be complete.

   Pick H-1B1

   Choose H-1B1 if lower cost ($460) and faster processing (1-3 months) are priorities for you.

4. 04

   Long-term PR pathway

   Pick H-1B

   Choose H-1B if you want a realistic path to permanent residence within approximately 5 years.

   Pick H-1B1

   Choose H-1B1 if you don't need a PR pathway. It's a short-term work visa alternative.