The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign workers to work in the United States for a specific period. It is popular with companies that need skilled workers to fill specific positions. However, the H-1B visa application process can be expensive, and it's critical to budget accordingly to avoid any surprises. In this article, we'll break down the costs associated with the H-1B visa and provide tips on how to budget for them. Hopefully, you will not face unexpected bills later.
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H-1B Visa Fees: A Breakdown of Costs
The H-1B visa application process involves several fees that applicants must pay to the U.S. government. The government fees associated with an H-1B visa can vary depending on the type of employer and plan of action. A standard filing fee for an H-1B application ranges anywhere from $460 to $8960 USD.
H-1B visa fees include:
I-129 Filing Fee
I-129 is the form used to apply for various non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B visa. As of 2023, the standard filing fee for an I-129 Petition for Non-immigrant Workers is $460.
ACWIA Fee
The American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) fee is paid by the employer sponsoring the H-1B visa. The fee is $750 for employers with 1-25 full-time employees and $1,500 for employers with 26 or more full-time employees. This fee is used to fund training programs for U.S. workers.
Fraud Protection Fee
The fraud prevention and detection fee is a mandatory fee that must be paid when filing certain H-1B visa applications. The fee is designed to help fund initiatives to prevent and detect fraud and abuse in the H-1B program. As of 2023, the fraud prevention and detection fee for H-1B visa applications is $500.
This fee is in addition to the standard filing fee for the H-1B visa application. Employers are required to pay the fraud prevention and detection fee for each and every H-1B petition they file, as well as for any H-1B extensions or transfers to a new employer. It's essential to note that the fraud prevention and detection fee is non-refundable, even if the H-1B application is denied.
Public Law 114-113 Fee
Public Law 114-113, also known as the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016, introduced an additional fee for certain H-1B and L-1 visa applications. This fee called the "Public Law 114-113 fee" or "ACWIA fee," is assessed on companies that employ 50 or more employees in the United States and have more than 50% of their workforce on H-1B or L-1 visas.
The fee is $4,000 for H-1B visa applications and $4,500 for L-1 visa applications. The fee applies to initial H-1B or L-1 visa petitions, as well as to extensions of stay or changes of employer for individuals already in the United States on H-1B or L-1 visas. It's important to note that the Public Law 114-113 fee is in addition to the standard filing fee and the fraud prevention and detection fee for H-1B visa applications. This fee is used to fund various training and education programs for American workers in high-demand industries.
Premium Processing Fee
The premium processing fee is optional and allows applicants to have their application processed within 15 calendar days. The fee is $2,500 and is paid by the employer sponsoring the visa. If the application is not processed within 15 calendar days, the fee is refunded. However, if the application is denied, the fee is not refunded.
Visa Issuance Fee
The visa issuance fee is paid by the applicant and varies depending on the applicant's country of origin. The fee ranges from $190 to $520 and is non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied.
Attorney Fees
Many applicants hire an immigration attorney to help them navigate the H-1B visa application process. Attorney fees vary but can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Factor in Other Costs Beyond Filing Fees
Employers may be responsible for other costs and expenses such as processing fees, attorney fees, and document authentication. Depending on the circumstances you and your employer are facing, these additional costs can add up quickly. Therefore, it’s wise to speak with an attorney or advisor prior to filing the application to get an understanding of any unexpected charges when applying for an H-1B visa.
How to Budget for H-1B Visa Fees
The H-1B visa application process can be expensive, and it's important to budget accordingly. Here are some tips on how to budget for H-1B visa fees:
Research the Fees
Start by researching the fees associated with the H-1B visa application process. Make a list of all the fees and their associated costs.
Talk to Your Employer
Talk to your employer about the H-1B visa application process and the fees associated with it. Make sure they are aware of the costs and ask if they will cover any of the fees.
Set a Budget
Set a budget for the H-1B visa application process based on the fees you have researched. Make sure to include all fees, including attorney fees.
Consider Payment Plans
Some immigration attorneys offer payment plans for their services. Consider this option if you're unable to pay the full amount upfront.
Calculate Travel and Lodging Expenses Accordingly
Prospective H-1B visa holders should plan for additional expenses such as travel and lodging when applying for an H-1B visa. These costs vary depending on how far the applicant has to travel and how long they will stay in their destination country. It is recommended to research what accommodation is available in their destination prior to applying so that they can make an informed estimate of their budget.
Save Money
Start saving money as soon as possible to cover the H-1B visa application fees. Consider cutting back on expenses or taking on extra work to save more money.
Be Prepared for Unforeseen H-1B Visa Costs during Processing Time
When you plan your budget for an H-1B visa, it is significant to consider additional costs during the processing time. These can include fees such as legal advice and assistance, courier services, visa application fees, additional travel costs, and any other expenses associated with the preparation and submission of your application. Make sure to add these fees to your budget prior to commencing the H-1B visa process.
Look for Scholarships or Grants
There are scholarships and grants available for immigrants pursuing higher education or training programs in the U.S. Consider applying for these scholarships or grants to help offset the H-1B visa application process costs.
Conclusion
The H-1B visa application process can be costly, but it's crucial to budget for these expenses to avoid any surprises. Researching the fees, talking to your employer, setting a budget, considering payment plans, saving money, looking for scholarships or grants, and being prepared for other expenses can help you navigate the H-1B visa application process with ease. With careful planning and preparation, you can successfully obtain an H-1B visa and pursue your career goals in the United States.
Grape Law: Your Partner in the H-1B Visa Application Process
Navigating the H-1B visa application process can be complicated, but Grape Law can help. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through the process, from preparing your application to navigating the interview process. We understand that the H-1B visa application process can be expensive, which is why we offer payment plans to help make our services more accessible. With Grape Law on your side, you can feel confident about your H-1B visa application and focus on pursuing your career goals in the United States. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
