H-1B Specialized Worker Visa Application Process and Fee Structure

Whether you are outside or inside the U.S., the process of applying for an H-1B visa is the same.

First, the employer must obtain a certified Labor Condition Application (“LCA”) from the Department of Labor. The LCA sets the “prevailing wage” for the position, which is the minimum wage rate the employer can offer to the foreign national.

Next, you will fill out Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, plus its supplements, and obtain the required supporting documentation. You can also file Form I-907 for premium processing, for an additional fee, so USCIS guarantees communication with you within 15 days of filing your application. Note: “communication” does not mean approval. It could mean approval, but it could also mean a request for additional information or a denial.

The supporting documentation needed for the application includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Copy of the Registration Selection Notice
Certified LCA
Letter from the US employer
Evidence of the employer’s business and ability to pay the prevailing wage
Detailed job description
Documents showing the terms and conditions of employment
Copy of the beneficiary’s degree(s), with translations, if applicable
If the degree is foreign, an evaluation stating that it is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher
Copy of the beneficiary’s resume
Copy of the beneficiary’s passport
Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) if the beneficiary is in the United States
If already in the U.S., evidence of lawful status

What are the fees for filing an H-1B petition?

You can expect different fees while filing your H-1B petition. The fees will vary depending on the U.S. employer. The visa fees are as follows:

The basic fee for filing Form I-129 is $460.
American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) fees: either $750 (when the number of employees is 25 or less) or $1500 (when the number of employees is 26 or more).
Anti-fraud fee to prevent or detect H-1B fraud is $500 (if applicable)
Public Law 114-113 fee of $4,000 (if applicable)
Optional: Form I-907 for premium processing is $2,500.

If you need to talk to an experienced immigration attorney. We’ve helped hundreds of people traverse the complicated immigration and citizenship process. We would love to help you as well. Call (617-744-7919) or email hello@cambridgeimmigrationlaw.com to get in touch.

Or please use our online scheduling tool to request an appointment. We look forward to partnering with you on your immigration journey.

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Cambridge Immigration Law is a boutique immigration firm dedicated to helping individuals, families, and employers navigate the U.S. immigration system with clarity, care, and confidence.