H-1B1 Visa

A streamlined work visa for citizens of Chile and Singapore under the U.S. Free Trade Agreements.

Overview

About This Visa

The H-1B1 visa is a nonimmigrant work visa created by the U.S.-Chile and U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreements. It is available exclusively to citizens of Chile or Singapore for specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor's degree.

The annual cap is 1,400 for Chileans and 5,400 for Singaporeans—a total of 6,800 visas that rarely fill, making them available year-round. Unlike the H-1B, applicants typically apply directly at a U.S. Consulate rather than through a USCIS petition.

H-1B1 visas are issued for 18 months and the holder is admitted for 1 year at a time, renewable indefinitely. Unlike the H-1B, the H-1B1 does not allow dual intent—applicants must show no intent to permanently immigrate.

Eligibility

Who Qualifies for an H-1B1?

Eligible fields include architecture, engineering, IT, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, and the arts.

  • Citizen of Chile or Singapore

  • Job offer in a specialty occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree

  • Qualifications matching the specialty occupation requirements

  • Employer has certified Labor Condition Application (LCA)

Process

The H-1B1 Process

1

Labor Condition Application

Employer files Form 9035E via the FLAG system, certifying prevailing wage. Typically certified within 7 business days.

2

Consular Application

Applicant applies directly at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy with the certified LCA, offer letter, and evidence of qualifications.

3

Visa Interview

Attend the consular interview with all required documentation. If approved, the visa is placed in your passport.

4

Enter the U.S.

Travel to the United States and begin work for your sponsoring employer.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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