The H-1B visa program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability.
October 29, 2025
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definition
U.S. Department of Labor description of the H-1B program's scope.
A specialty occupation for H-1B purposes is defined as one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelorâs degree or its equivalent.
October 29, 2025
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definition
Legal/administrative definition used to determine H-1B eligibility.
Certain universities and related nonprofit institutions are exempt from the annual federal H-1B numerical cap, allowing them to file H-1B petitions year-round.
October 29, 2025
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policy
Cap-exempt status enables higher-education employers to sponsor H-1B workers without being subject to the H-1B fiscal-year lottery.
The H-1B visa program permits U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for 'specialty occupations'.
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definition
General description of the H-1B immigration category used by U.S. employers.
The H-1B visa program in the United States allows employers to sponsor foreign-born workers for skilled or specialty-occupation positions.
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descriptive
Description of the H-1B visa program's purpose in U.S. immigration and labor policy.