After the H1B visa is approved, the applicant can proceed with scheduling a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in their home country. Upon successful completion of the interview, the applicant will receive their H1B visa stamp, allowing them to travel to the United States and begin their employment.
Read on for more information
After the H1B visa is approved, the applicant enters the next phase of the process, which involves scheduling a visa interview at the United States embassy or consulate in their home country. This interview is a crucial step in obtaining the H1B visa stamp that allows the applicant to travel to the United States and commence their employment.
During the visa interview, an immigration officer will assess the applicant’s eligibility for the H1B visa. The officer may ask questions regarding the applicant’s background, job offer, qualifications, and intentions for visiting the United States. It is important for the applicant to prepare thoroughly for the interview by gathering all the necessary supporting documents and understanding the requirements for the H1B visa.
Upon successful completion of the interview, the applicant will be issued the H1B visa stamp on their passport. This stamp serves as proof of their legal authorization to enter the United States and work for the employer who sponsored their visa. It is essential to note that the H1B visa stamp does not dictate the duration of authorized stay on its own. The actual duration of stay is determined by the approval of the I-797 Notice of Approval, also known as the I-797 form and the accompanying I-94 Arrival/Departure Record issued at the port of entry.
Here’s a quote from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to provide further insight into the significance of the H1B visa approval:
“The H1B visa program is the primary method for employers to recruit and hire skilled foreign nationals in specialty occupations to work in the United States.”
Interesting facts about the H1B visa process:
- The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means its primary purpose is to allow skilled foreign workers to temporarily work in the United States rather than obtain permanent residency.
- The annual quota for H1B visas is limited, with a set number of visas available each fiscal year.
- The H1B visa is typically granted for an initial period of three years and can be extended for an additional three years, making a total of six years in most cases.
- Employers who wish to hire foreign workers on H1B visas must demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position by completing a labor condition application before filing the H1B petition.
- The spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of H1B visa holders are eligible for an H4 visa, allowing them to accompany the primary visa holder to the United States.
Here’s a table showcasing the general steps in the H1B visa process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Employer sponsorship | An employer files a petition with the USCIS on behalf of the foreign worker, requesting H1B visa approval. |
| USCIS processing | The USCIS reviews the petition, determines eligibility, and issues a decision. |
| Visa interview | The applicant schedules a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. |
| Document preparation | The applicant compiles supporting documents, such as passport, photographs, education certificates, and employment offer letter. |
| Visa interview | The applicant attends the interview, where the immigration officer assesses eligibility. |
| Visa approval | Upon successful interview, the applicant receives the H1B visa stamp on their passport. |
| Travel to the U.S. | The applicant can then travel to the United States and begin their employment with the sponsoring employer. |
| Visa extension (optional) | If needed, the applicant can apply for an extension of their H1B visa to continue their stay in the United States. |
Please note that this information is intended as a general overview of the H1B visa process, and specific circumstances may vary for each individual case. It is advisable to consult official government websites or seek legal advice for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
See the answer to “What happens after H1B visa is approved?” in this video
The speaker congratulates H-1B beneficiaries on their approval but emphasizes the importance of H-1B compliance. They advise understanding job details, keeping records, and consulting an attorney for any changes. They discuss H-1B extension, checking I-94 records, and starting the green card application. They also mention options in case of job loss within a 60-day grace period.
Here are some other responses to your query
If everything went well, your H1B Visa stamping would be completed and you get your Passport with H1B Visa foil glued in the passport. Sometimes, there may be additional processing required and consulate may issue 221g form for Administrative processing.