Unlock professional growth with the H-1B visa
The H-1B visa lets skilled professionals with a degree work in specialty occupations across the U.S. This employer-sponsored status provides work authorization for up to six years. Professionals in Putnam County use this pathway to accept roles in fields like technology, finance, and healthcare that match their qualifications.
A key advantage is dual intent, which lets you pursue permanent residence. Your spouse may join you, and with an approved I-140 petition, they can apply for work authorization. While the new H-1B fee rule has added some complexity to the process, the visa remains a strong option for professionals.
Check your H-1B eligibility
You may qualify for the H-1B visa if you meet the following core requirements:
- Hold a bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent in a field that is directly related to your proposed job.
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a specialty occupation, such as an engineer, analyst, or researcher.
- Work with an employer who will sponsor your petition and get a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) for you.
- Understand that most petitions are subject to the annual lottery, though some employers like universities are cap-exempt.
How Lighthouse accelerates your H-1B petition
Lighthouse combines purpose-built technology with legal expertise to prepare your H-1B petition. An H-1B visa lawyer oversees your case from evaluation to USCIS submission, so you can focus on your work.
A clear path forward
Our platform helps you explore your visa options. It walks you through each requirement, explains what you need, and shows how to strengthen your case. Submit your details through a simple form, and we will follow up with guidance on potential paths.
Expert legal review
Experienced H-1B attorneys review your petition to ensure it meets strict USCIS standards. This detailed check minimizes the risk of delays or RFEs. Your H-1B visa lawyer also provides guidance on complex situations, which gives you access to legal expertise from start to finish.
Total process transparency
Always know where you are in the process. The Lighthouse platform provides your petition status, lists any outstanding items, and shows upcoming deadlines. We give you clear timelines and explain what happens next, so you can plan with confidence.
Designed for technical experts
Lighthouse supports professionals in technology, engineering, and research. Our team has deep knowledge of specialty occupation roles, from software engineers to data scientists, and understands the specific requirements and qualifications for a successful H-1B petition.
Manage your petition with Lighthouse
Our platform gives you one central place for your H-1B petition. Upload critical documents, talk with your case team, and review personalized forms. Edit and sign everything through our secure digital system before you submit the final application.
Get our complete H-1B visa guide
Explore our detailed guide to learn about the entire H-1B process, from requirements to final approval, including:
- Step-by-step application process
- H-4 visas for dependents
- Job changes and portability
- Timelines and associated costs
- The 2026 H-1B Fee Rule
Frequently asked questions
The process starts with online registration in early March. USCIS then runs a lottery for 85,000 slots and announces results by March 31. If selected, your employer files a petition from April 1. With approval, you can start work on October 1. Some employers, like universities, are cap-exempt and can file anytime.
You typically need a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent for a role that requires specialized knowledge. This role is a "specialty occupation." Relevant professional work experience can sometimes substitute for a formal degree. The key is a direct link between your qualifications and the complex duties of the job your Putnam County employer offers.
Your employer acts as your sponsor and files the H-1B petition. They must prove the job is a specialty occupation and that they will pay you the required wage for your role in Putnam County. The law requires the employer to pay all government filing fees and legal costs; you cannot cover these expenses yourself.
Yes, H-1B status is portable. Your new employer must file a new H-1B petition on your behalf. As soon as USCIS issues a receipt notice for this new petition, you can legally start work at the new company. You do not need to wait for the final approval, which allows for career mobility.
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can get H-4 dependent visas to accompany you. They can attend school in the U.S. In some cases, your spouse may also be eligible for work authorization. This usually happens after you reach a certain stage in the green card process, which provides more stability for your family.
This significant new fee only applies to certain H-1B petitions for workers who are outside the United States. If you are already in the U.S. on a different visa and your employer files for a change of status, you are exempt. The same is true for extensions. More details are in this presidential proclamation summary.
Begin your H-1B journey with us
Lighthouse combines a platform with legal expertise from an H-1B visa lawyer, giving you clear guidance and a team to manage your case through USCIS submission.