Specialty Occupation Visa

For professionals from Chile and Singapore working in specialty occupations in the United States

The H-1B1 visa allows qualified professionals from Chile and Singapore to work in the United States in specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge and advanced education.

This visa category was established under free trade agreements between the United States and the governments of Chile and Singapore to promote professional mobility and economic cooperation.

The H-1B1 visa provides a pathway for qualified professionals to work in the United States while contributing their expertise in fields such as technology, engineering, finance, healthcare, and research.

Understanding the H-1B1 Visa

The H-1B1 visa is closely related to the H-1B visa but is reserved exclusively for citizens of Chile and Singapore.

Like the H-1B category, the H-1B1 visa is designed for specialty occupations, meaning positions that require theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge.

Typical professions that qualify include:

• Engineers and technology professionals
• Financial analysts and accountants
• Scientists and research professionals
• Architects and design professionals
• Healthcare specialists

Unlike the H-1B visa, the H-1B1 category has a separate annual quota specifically allocated to Chile and Singapore, which often results in greater availability.

Key Requirements for the H-1B1 Visa

Applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for H-1B1 classification.

Citizenship Requirement

Applicants must be citizens of Chile or Singapore.

Specialty Occupation Position

The job offered in the United States must qualify as a specialty occupation, typically requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field.

Educational Qualifications

The applicant must possess a relevant academic degree or equivalent credentials required for the position.

Employer Sponsorship

A U.S. employer must provide a job offer and agree to sponsor the visa.

Labor Condition Application

The employer must obtain a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the U.S. Department of Labor before the visa application can proceed.

Duration of H-1B1 Status

H-1B1 status is typically granted for up to one year at a time.

Extensions may be granted if the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements and maintains employment with the sponsoring employer.

Because extensions can be requested repeatedly, the visa may be renewed while the professional continues to work in the qualifying position.

Family Members

Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may accompany the H-1B1 visa holder under H-4 dependent status.

H-4 dependents may live and study in the United States. In certain circumstances, H-4 spouses may also apply for employment authorization.

H-1B1 Application Process

The application process for the H-1B1 visa may differ slightly depending on whether the applicant is applying from outside or inside the United States.

1. Labor Condition Application

The employer files a Labor Condition Application with the U.S. Department of Labor confirming wage and working conditions.

2. Visa Application

Applicants typically apply for the H-1B1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate by submitting Form DS-160 and supporting documentation.

3. Visa Interview

The applicant attends a visa interview where eligibility for the H-1B1 classification is reviewed.

4. Entry to the United States

Once approved, the applicant may enter the United States to begin employment with the sponsoring employer.

Applicants already in the United States may request a change of status through USCIS.

Comparing the H-1B1 Visa With Other U.S. Immigration Options

Professionals seeking employment in the United States may qualify for several visa categories depending on their nationality and qualifications.

The table below compares the H-1B1 visa with other commonly used professional work visas.

For qualified professionals from Chile and Singapore, the H-1B1 visa offers a specialized pathway to work in the United States without the lottery process associated with the H-1B visa.

Working With an Immigration Attorney

H-1B1 petitions require proper documentation demonstrating that the position qualifies as a specialty occupation and that the applicant meets the necessary professional qualifications.

Immigration counsel can assist with:

• Determining whether a position qualifies for H-1B1 classification
• Preparing the Labor Condition Application and supporting documentation
• Organizing the visa application materials
• Preparing applicants for the visa interview process

Professional guidance can help ensure the application is properly prepared and aligned with immigration requirements.