What if our candidate isn't selected in the H-1B lottery?

We explore alternatives including O-1 visas, cap-exempt employers, E-3/TN/H-1B1 visas (depending on nationality), and OPT extensions to keep your employee working while we pursue other options.

Can we hire someone who is currently on F-1 OPT?

Yes. We guide employers through the STEM OPT extension process, I-983 Training Plan completion, and eventual transition to an employer-sponsored work visa.

How much does it cost to sponsor a worker?

We offer transparent flat-fee pricing. The total cost depends on the visa type and complexity, but you'll know the full amount before we begin.

Do we need to prove we tried to hire a U.S. worker first?

For most nonimmigrant work visas (H-1B, O-1, TN, E-3), no labor market test is required. Green card sponsorship through PERM does require recruitment testing.

Can we eventually sponsor our worker for a green card?

Yes. We plan the green card process early to ensure a smooth transition from temporary to permanent status.

Hire a Skilled Worker

Access global expertise in science, engineering, technology, and other specialized fields.

Overview

How We Help

In today's competitive landscape, securing top talent in science, engineering, and other skilled professions is essential. At Locke Immigration Law, we enable you to hire the best international professionals to drive your company's success.

We cover the full spectrum of employment-based immigration—from transitioning F-1 students on OPT to H-1B sponsorship, and from initial work visas through green card sponsorship for your most valued employees.

Operating on the cutting edge of immigration policy and mindful of evolving adjudicatory trends, we handle the government agencies so you can focus on leveraging your new hire's expertise.

Visa Options

Applicable Visa Types

H-1B Visa

The primary visa for specialty occupation workers in technology, finance, engineering, and more.

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E-3 Visa

Streamlined work visa exclusively for Australian nationals in specialty occupations.

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TN Visa

Fast-track visa for Canadian and Mexican professionals under USMCA.

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H-1B1 Visa

Dedicated visa for Chilean and Singaporean nationals with a rarely-filled cap.

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O-1 Visa

For workers with extraordinary ability—no cap, no lottery.

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Process

From Hire to Integration

Evaluate Options

We assess your candidate's nationality, qualifications, and timeline to identify the fastest and strongest visa pathway.

F-1 OPT Transitions

If your hire is on F-1 student status, we guide the STEM OPT extension, I-983 Training Plan, and transition to an employer-sponsored work visa.

Visa Filing & Lottery

We handle H-1B lottery registration, LCA filings, I-129 petitions, and all supporting documentation.

Long-Term Planning

We track status, manage extensions, and plan the green card process so your employee has a clear path to permanence.

Why Locke Immigration Law

Fortune 500 counsel, working directly on your case

Loren Locke

Managing Attorney

Partner-level immigration counsel to Fortune 500 employers at a national firm — and before that, a U.S. diplomat who decided some 12,000 visa applications at the consulate window.

Fortune 500

Corporate immigration counsel at a national firm

12,000+

Visa decisions as a U.S. consular officer

Since 2008

Working in U.S. immigration

“By far the best immigration lawyer I have ever worked with. Loren was honest and realistic, went above and beyond what I would expect a lawyer's role to be, and has a willingness to do what it takes to help her clients.”

Sudarshan S. — Google Review ★★★★★

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

For Individuals

The Visa Behind This Solution

H-1B Visa — Approved Beyond the Lottery

Specialty occupation work visa enabling U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in fields like technology, finance, engineering, and architecture.

H-1B1 Visa — Approved for Chilean and Singaporean Professionals

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

E-3 Visa — Approved for Australian Professionals

A dedicated work visa exclusively for Australian citizens in specialty occupations.

TN Visa — Approved for Canadian and Mexican Professionals

A fast-track work visa for Canadian and Mexican professionals under the USMCA trade agreement.

Ready to Get Started?

Tell us about your immigration needs and we'll be in touch to discuss how we can help.

Immigration counsel to Fortune 500 employers at a national firm · Adjudicated 12,000+ visas at the U.S. Consulate, Mexico · Working in U.S. immigration since 2008
Featured in Newsweek, Condé Nast Traveler, Daily Mail