The application must be initiated by the sponsor/employer to get permission from USCIS to hire a participant from a foreign country.
Step by step Q1 visa application process
- File a petition
- Complete Form DS-160
- Pay Fees
- Schedule an Interview
- Attend Visa Interview
STEP 1: File a petition
The employer should file a petition Form I-129 Petition for Q1 visa holder with USCIS. This form is filed to obtain permission from the US government to hire a foreign worker with below mentioned documents.
The employer should file a petition Form I-129 Petition for Q1 visa holder with USCIS. This form is filed to obtain permission from the US government to hire a foreign worker with below mentioned documents.
- The employer should prove that they have an international cultural exchange program in their business, with brochures or other promotional materials of the program and also detailed activities and locations as to where the participant will share their cultural information.
- Documents of the participant’s eligibility to be a part of the program with his age and education certificates.
- The employer should submit documents to prove that they are financially stable to pay the Q1 visa holder with documents like financial statements, previous payments to similar positions etc...
- After filling all the sections, the employer must submit the petition at the closest service center in the area that they are. Once USCIS receives it, they will issue your case number. A number through which the employer can check your petition status
- USCIS will review the petition and conclude whether the visa to be granted or denied. If USCIS approves the petition for foreign workers, they will issue a Form I-797 for the employee to start application procedures.
- Complete Form DS-160-form
- After successfully completing the application, you will receive a confirmation number a 10-digit number.
- This confirmation number is required for setting up of visa interview appointment. Set up the visa interview
- Applicant -Visa Application Fee of $190 for all H visa categories
- Applicant -Based on the country there is a Visa Issuance fee.
STEP 4: Documents required to apply for H-1B visa
- A copy of current passport with all pages and any previous passports available.
- Receipts of payments made for all applicable visa fees
- To complete the form, the applicant needs a photo in the acceptable format. Photo Requirements
- Letter from the employer with your job description
- Copy of Form I-797.
- The DS-160 confirmation page and code.
- The visa interview confirmation letter.
- Educational qualifications and previous work experience documents like diploma certificates and work experience certificates.
- Medical examination and vaccination documents
- Any criminal records or police certificate
All applicants must attend an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in their home country where they are applying. The necessary checks on all documents will be made and interview will be scheduled by NVC.
