H-1B Extension
Renewal of H-1B status beyond the initial 3-year period, typically to a maximum of 6 years, with possible extensions beyond 6 years if a green card application is pending.
How It Works
H-1B visas are initially granted for 3 years and can be extended for another 3 years, for a maximum of 6 years. After 6 years, the worker must leave the U.S. for at least one year before obtaining another H-1B. However, exceptions exist under AC21: if an I-140 has been approved or if a PERM application was filed at least 365 days before the 6-year limit, the worker can extend in 1-year or 3-year increments beyond 6 years. These extensions are critical for workers from countries with long green card backlogs (India and China), where waits can exceed 10 years.
Related Terms
- H-1B Visa, A nonimmigrant work visa allowing U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in "specialty occupations" that require at least a bachelor's degree, the primary visa for skilled tech, engineering, and professional workers.
- Green Card (Permanent Residency), Lawful permanent resident status in the United States, the ultimate goal for most H-1B workers, granting the right to live and work permanently without employer sponsorship.
- PERM Labor Certification, The first step in the employment-based green card process, the employer must prove to the Department of Labor that no qualified U.S. worker is available for the position.
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About This Definition
This definition is part of the H1BVisaTracker H-1B Visa Glossary, 26 terms explaining H-1B sponsorship, work visas, and employment-based immigration in the United States. Written for international workers, employers, and immigration professionals.