Usually fits
H-1B · Specialty occupation, lotteryO-1 · If you have a proven track record
A US employer wants to hire you for a specialty occupation (bachelor's level or higher).
How the process works
- 1Employer registers you in March for the H-1B lottery (USCIS).
- 2If selected, the employer files the petition (I-129) with a Labor Condition Application.
- 3After approval: visa interview at the US consulate in Amsterdam.
- 4Start work on October 1 at the earliest.
Timeline
6–9 months (lottery in March, start in October)
Cost (indicative)
$2,000–6,000 in government fees paid by employer; lawyer $2,500–5,000
Validity
3 years, renewable once to 6 years
Spouse & children
H-4 for spouse and children; spouse usually needs an EAD (I-765) to work.
Pitfalls
- •Lottery odds are around 25–35%: have a plan B.
- •Your visa is tied to your employer; if laid off you have 60 days.