The deadline for this year’s H-1B non-immigrant professional visa to the US is approaching, with updated filing requirements for 2020.

An overhaul of the initial H-1B process includes a new electronic registration system, with a significant boost to H-1B candidates with US masters’ degrees.

US firm Tully Rinckey says it has seen an increase in employer demand around H-1B visas, but is encouraging clients to start the process early.

Occupations

The H-1B non-immigrant visa allows US companies to employ credentialed professional workers in specialty occupations in fields including, but not limited to, computer technology, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, science and medicine.

There is a 65,000 annual limit for new H-1B visas, with an additional 20,000 reserved for advanced degree professionals who have a US Masters’ degree or higher.

A lottery will be held if demand exceeds the annual limit.

However, the application period now takes longer and it is advisable to apply as soon as possible.