H-1B Sponsorship Overview

The H-1B classification allows you to employ a foreign national in a specialty occupation. This means the position must require at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a specific field as a minimum requirement.

H-1B status is used for positions that require specialized knowledge and is commonly used for faculty and professional staff.

Key Points

• H-1B is employer-specific and tied to the approved position
• You must obtain approval before the employee can begin work
• Initial approval is granted for up to 3 years, with a general maximum of 6 years
  
  

How the Process Works

All H-1B requests are handled in partnership with the SUNY-approved immigration law firm.

To begin, you must:

• Submit an Immigration Counsel Referral Request in accessVIS
• Obtain required department and Dean-level approval

VIS will review your request and refer the case to immigration counsel for processing.

Department Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

• Ensuring the position qualifies as a specialty occupation
• Providing accurate job, salary, and funding details
• Covering required legal and government filing fees
• Notifying VIS of any changes to the position
  
  

When to Contact VIS

You should contact VIS early if:

• You plan to hire or retain a foreign national employee
• You are unsure if H-1B is the appropriate visa type

Early planning is important, as H-1B processing involves multiple steps and government review.

Important Reminder

You must ensure that the employee does not begin work until H-1B authorization is in place. Working without authorization can result in serious immigration and compliance issues.