English » U.S. Visa Services » Work Permit (Nonimmigrant Visa) » H-1 B Visa "Specialty Occupation" » How long is the H-1B visa usually valid?
How long is the H-1B visa usually valid?
The H-1B via can be issued for an initial period of up to three years. It can, however, also be limited to a shorter period of time by US authorities.
After that, you can apply for an extension of three more years. The maximum time limit for the H-1B visa is six years. If you have applied for an immigrant visa ("green card") before the end of those maximum six years (e.g. EB-2 or EB-3), your H-1B visa may be extended until the green card application is approved, but for no more than one more year, so that the maximum stay will be a total of seven years. During this time visa holders can legally work as H-1B employees.
There is, by the way, no cap on the extension of H-1B visas once they have been approved. This means, extension applications can be filed any time during the year.
Our winners
"Thanks to the American Dream I can now fulfill my life-long dream and start working and living in the USA!..."
More...
"Dear TAD-Team, That photo was taken in Washington D.C. one week ago. Thank you for your help. We are looking forward..."
More...
"This is a once in a lifetime chance to be able to live in America and experience the rich and..."
More...
"Thank you for announcing me a winner. May God bless National Visa Service."
More...
"The American Dream helped me to realise my dream. I have always dreamed about living in the US, but so..."
More...
"Dear The American Dream Team: Thank you so much for your support and the professional counselling."
More...
"I am both lucky and proud to have been chosen to become a future U.S. citizen. I can't wait to..."
More...
"Always expect the unexpected … every now and then. I almost did give up hope after participating in the green..."
More...
"Best wishes to all TAD-GC-Winner. I already have had the first encounters and the first impressions of teh USA (Skagway,..."
More...
"Dear TAD Team, Herewith I would like to thank you for the support on my way to become a green carder..."
More...
Recommendations
Newsletter