Eligibility Requirements

The H-1B Temporary Worker visa is designed for individuals coming to the United States to work in a "specialty occupation". 

Specialty Occupation

A specialty occupation is defined as one that requires, “theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree, or its equivalent, is a minimum requirement.” The hiring department must provide documentation to prove that the job requires someone with specialized qualification and that the international employee meets those qualifications.

Wage Requirements

In addition to position requirements, there will be minimum wage requirements specific to each H-1B petition.  The hiring department will work with International Programs on the minimum requried wages for the specific position as set by the U.S. Department of Labor

USCIS

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) makes the final decision as to whether the individual and position qualifies for the H-1B visa classification. International Programs files the H-1B petition with USCIS for consideration and adjudication.

Employer Specific

Each H-1B petition is employer specific, this means that each USCIS approved petition that was submitted by IP authorizes the employee to work only in the position specified by the petition.  An individual who has an H-1B approved from another employer is not eligibile to work at KU until a new H-1B petition has been filed by IP at KU.  An H-1B worker may work for more than one employer at the same time, however, each employer must file a separate H-1B petition.