What are H1B and L1 Visas?

About H1B Visa:

• It is a multiple entry non-immigrant visa which allows foreign workers employed by US companies to work in the United States. 
• The workers under H1B visas should be engaged in specialised occupations such as science, medicine, engineering and mathematics.
• H1B applicants must have at least a US bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Generally this visa is granted for a period of three years and can be extended for an additional three years for special circumstances.
• H-1B visa requires the employer to apply on the person’s behalf.
• Holders of H1B visas can sell or buy property and invest in the stock market in the United States.

About L1 Visa:

• L1 Visa is an Intra-Company Transferee Visa.
• It allows large multinationals (need not be a US company) – with operations across various countries – to shift employees in specialized positions on a temporary basis to the US.
• There are two types of L1  visas – L1A and L1B. 
• Managers and executives come under the category of L1As while L1Bs encompass workers with specialized knowledge. 
• There is no education requirement for the L1 visa.
• L-1A visa holders are allowed a maximum stay of seven years in the U.S while s L-1B visa holders are allowed a maximum stay of  five years.

Q1) What are the eligibility criteria for H1B Visa?

• To be eligible for the visa, you must meet the following requirements:
• A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree (or a foreign equivalent)*
• Degree requirements for the job ( ex: M.D. for a surgeon)
• Work must be one that requires a professional in a specialty occupation
• Deep knowledge in the required field
• Employer must show the lack of qualified US applicants for the position

Source: After mass layoffs, thousands of Indian techies struggle to find new jobs in US

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