⚠️ Informational only. Immigration rules change. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
How to Choose: H-1B vs H-1B1
H-1B and H-1B1 are related but distinct programs. H-1B1 is a specialty occupation work visa reserved exclusively for nationals of Chile and Singapore under their respective bilateral trade agreements with the US. H-1B1 has a dedicated annual quota of 6,800 visas (1,400 for Chile, 5,400 for Singapore) which is rarely exhausted — meaning Chilean and Singaporean nationals can apply at US consulates without the USCIS lottery. H-1B1 does not require employer USCIS petition for new applications (consular processing is standard). Key differences: H-1B1 does not carry dual intent (cannot support a concurrent green card), while H-1B explicitly does. H-1B1 is issued in 1-year increments (vs H-1B's 3 years). For Chilean and Singaporean nationals who want to work in the US without the lottery risk, H-1B1 is a superior near-term option. For those committed to permanent residence, H-1B (or EB directly) is strategically better.
H-1B
Visa TypeNonimmigrant
Duration3 yrs (extendable to 6)
SponsorshipRequired
Annual CapYes (85,000/yr lottery)
Green Card PathGreen card possible
Premium ProcessingYes ($2,965)
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage required
H-1B1
Visa TypeNonimmigrant
Duration1 yr (renewable)
SponsorshipRequired
Annual Cap6,800/yr (rarely hit)
Green Card PathNo dual intent
Premium ProcessingNo
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage required
Approval Rate Comparison
H-1B Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| 2024 | 320,000 | 8500.0% |
| 2024 | 460,000 | 9300.0% |
| 2024 | 780,000 | 1090.0% |
H-1B1 Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| No data available |
Get Your H-1B Eligibility Report
AI-powered analysis with real employer data, prevailing wages, and RFE risk scoring
Run H-1B Analyzer ($49) →
⚠️
Some data on this page may be outdated. We're working on refreshing it. For the latest official figures, check the
source links.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between H-1B and H-1B1?
H-1B is Nonimmigrant while H-1B1 is Nonimmigrant. H-1B requires required, while H-1B1 requires required. Duration: H-1B lasts 3 yrs (extendable to 6) vs H-1B1 lasting 1 yr (renewable).
Can I switch from H-1B to H-1B1?
Switching between visa types typically requires filing a new petition or change-of-status application with USCIS. Each situation is different. Consult an immigration attorney to evaluate your specific circumstances.
Which is better for a green card — H-1B or H-1B1?
No dual intent has different green card implications. Green card possible is a nonimmigrant path that may lead to a green card. Your best path depends on your qualifications, nationality, and employer situation.