How does the annual H-1B lottery work for Florida professionals?
Each March, USCIS accepts H-1B registrations for a random lottery. The system selects 85,000 petitions: 65,000 for the general pool and 20,000 for applicants with a U.S. master's degree or higher. A selection allows your employer to submit your petition. Some employers, like universities, are cap-exempt and can sponsor H-1B workers year-round.
What are the main H-1B eligibility requirements for a job in Florida?
To qualify, you need a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specific field. The job itself must be a "specialty occupation," which means it requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge. Your degree must directly relate to the duties of the professional role you seek.
What is my Florida employer’s role and who pays the H-1B visa fees?
Your employer acts as your petitioner and must handle the entire application process with USCIS. By law, the company must pay all mandatory government and legal fees associated with the petition. You, the employee, cannot pay for or reimburse your employer for these specific costs. This ensures the employer has a genuine need for your skills.
How can I change jobs in Florida if I already have an H-1B visa?
The H-1B visa has a "portability" feature that allows you to move to a new employer. Your new company must submit a fresh H-1B petition on your behalf. As soon as USCIS confirms receipt of this new petition, you are authorized to start work at the new job. You do not need to wait for final approval.
What benefits can my spouse and children get with my Florida H-1B visa?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can get H-4 dependent status. They can attend school, and in some cases, your spouse may be eligible for work authorization. This usually happens if you have an approved I-140 immigrant petition, which is a step toward a green card.
What is this new $100,000 H-1B fee and will it apply to my case?
This proposed fee would apply only to certain new H-1B petitions for workers who are outside the United States. If you are already in the U.S. on a different visa or you seek an extension of your current H-1B, this fee does not apply. You can read more about the presidential proclamation details.