At Zepeda Law Firm, we help workers and employers across Texas understand and apply for the H-1B visa. This temporary, employment-based visa gives skilled foreign workers the chance to work in the U.S. in jobs that require a college degree or higher.
Whether you’re a business looking to hire international talent or a foreign professional hoping to work in the U.S., we’re here to walk you through the process and help you take the next step with confidence.
What Is the H-1B Visa and Who Qualifies?
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in “specialty occupations.” These are jobs that require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field. Common industries include technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and education.
To qualify for an H-1B visa, you generally need:
- A valid job offer from a U.S. employer
- At least a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) in a related field
- Proof that the job requires your level of education and training
Each year, there’s a limit on the number of H-1B visas issued. If demand exceeds supply, the government runs a lottery to select which petitions will be reviewed. Timing, documentation, and accuracy matter. That’s where we can help.
How the H-1B Visa Process Works
The process starts with the employer. Before anything is filed with immigration authorities, the employer must submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor. This confirms that the job meets wage and work condition requirements.
Once the LCA is certified, the employer files Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is subject to the lottery, it must be selected before processing can begin. If approved, the worker will receive a Notice of Approval.
What happens next depends on where the worker is:
- If already in the U.S., they may be able to change status without leaving.
- If outside the U.S., they will apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate abroad. This typically includes a visa interview.
The process involves multiple steps, and both employers and workers need to follow specific rules. We help ensure every document is filed correctly and on time.
How to Find an Employer to Sponsor Your H-1B Visa
One of the biggest challenges foreign workers face is finding a company willing to sponsor them. While we don’t place workers with employers, we can offer guidance on where to look and what to consider.
Here are a few tips that may help:
- Focus on industries known for hiring foreign professionals, such as tech, healthcare, and finance
- Use job boards that filter for H-1B-friendly companies
- Check the H-1B Sponsor Database to see which companies have filed H-1B petitions in the past
- Build a professional network in your field and attend industry events
- Be clear with potential employers about your need for visa sponsorship
Once you receive a job offer, we can step in and assist with the legal side of the process, working closely with you and your employer.
Can You Change Jobs on an H-1B Visa?
Yes, but there’s a process involved. If you want to change employers while on an H-1B visa, the new employer must file a new H-1B petition with USCIS. This is often referred to as an H-1B transfer.
Here’s what you need to know:
- You can’t begin working for the new employer until USCIS receives the new petition
- In most cases, you won’t need to go through the lottery again
- You can remain in the U.S. while the petition is pending
We regularly help H-1B workers make career moves while maintaining valid status. If you’re thinking about changing jobs, talk to us first so we can help you avoid delays or issues with your visa.
How Zepeda Law Firm Can Help You
We work with both employers and foreign professionals to guide them through the H-1B visa process. Our approach is straightforward and responsive. We’ll review your qualifications, help you prepare all required documents, and make sure each step is handled properly.
Whether you’re filing your first H-1B petition, seeking a transfer, or responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE), we’re here to support you. Our goal is to make the process more manageable so you can focus on your career or business goals.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Worth H-1B Visa Attorneys
If you’re ready to apply for an H-1B visa or have questions about your options, we’re ready to help. Call Zepeda Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward your future in the United States.