If you are researching h1b1 visa sponsorship, this guide explains eligibility requirements, employer obligations, salary rules, and how the H1B1 program differs from the standard H1B visa.
The H1B1 visa is a nonimmigrant work visa available exclusively to citizens of Chile and Singapore under free trade agreements with the United States.
Contents
What Is H1B1 Visa Sponsorship?
H1B1 visa sponsorship refers to a U.S. employer supporting a qualified professional from Chile or Singapore for temporary employment in a specialty occupation.
Like the H1B visa, the role must require at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
Key Differences Between H1B and H1B1
- Available only to citizens of Chile and Singapore
- Separate annual quota (6,800 visas per year)
- Generally issued for one year at a time (renewable)
- No dual intent protection like H1B
Because of the separate cap, H1B1 visa sponsorship may offer an alternative option when H1B lottery selection is uncertain.
Employer Requirements
To provide h1b1 visa sponsorship, employers must:
- Offer a specialty occupation position
- Pay the prevailing wage
- File a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA)
- Provide proof of a valid employer–employee relationship
Unlike H1B, employers do not file Form I-129 before visa issuance when applying directly at a U.S. consulate abroad.
Employee Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of Chile or Singapore
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field
- Have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer
- Meet specialty occupation criteria
- Pass visa interview requirements
Professional licenses may be required for regulated occupations.
Application Process
- Step 1: Employer files Labor Condition Application (LCA)
- Step 2: Applicant completes DS-160 visa form
- Step 3: Attend visa interview at U.S. embassy or consulate
- Step 4: Receive visa approval and enter the United States
In some cases, change of status may be filed within the U.S.
Duration and Extensions
H1B1 visa sponsorship typically allows initial employment for one year. Extensions are possible in one-year increments as long as eligibility continues.
Because H1B1 does not formally recognize dual intent, applicants must maintain nonimmigrant intent.
Costs Involved
- Visa application fee
- Labor Condition Application filing (no fee)
- Optional legal representation fees
Employer obligations differ slightly from standard H1B filing procedures.
Common Challenges
- Proving specialty occupation qualification
- Maintaining nonimmigrant intent
- Ensuring wage compliance
- Understanding differences from H1B regulations
Careful preparation significantly improves approval outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is H1B1 the same as H1B?
No. While similar, H1B1 has separate quotas and eligibility limitations.
Can H1B1 lead to a green card?
H1B1 does not formally provide dual intent, but some individuals later transition to other visa categories.
Is there a lottery for H1B1?
The H1B1 category has its own quota but is rarely fully used, making lottery selection less common.
Final Thoughts
H1B1 visa sponsorship provides a valuable pathway for professionals from Chile and Singapore to work in the United States. Understanding employer responsibilities, wage requirements, and nonimmigrant intent rules is essential for approval.