Specialty Occupation
A job that requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field, the threshold for H-1B eligibility.
How It Works
To qualify as a specialty occupation, a position must meet at least one of four criteria: (1) a bachelor's degree or higher is normally required; (2) the degree requirement is common in the industry; (3) the employer normally requires a degree; or (4) the duties are so specialized that a degree is required to perform them. Common specialty occupations include software engineers, data scientists, financial analysts, architects, physicians, and engineers. USCIS has increased scrutiny of specialty occupation claims, particularly for entry-level positions and IT staffing roles where the connection between the degree and job duties may be less clear.
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.
- Labor Condition Application (LCA), A DOL-certified form that employers must file before hiring an H-1B worker, attesting they will pay at least the prevailing wage and not adversely affect working conditions for U.S. workers.
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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.