by Interstride
If you’re from Singapore or Chile, the H-1B1 visa offers a unique post-graduation work opportunity in the US, designed exclusively for citizens of these two countries. This guide breaks down how the H-1B1 visa works, its benefits and limitations compared to the standard H-1B visa, and how it can support your long-term career and immigration goals.
What is the H-1B1 visa?
The H-1B1 visa is a sub-category of the H-1B visa, specifically reserved for citizens of Singapore and Chile through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with both countries. It allows qualified professionals from Singapore and Chile to work in the US in specialty occupations—positions that typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Common qualifying jobs include:
- Software developer
- Financial analyst
- Architect
- Engineer
- Economist
- Research scientist
- Accountant
How many visas are available?
Whether you’re a current F-1 international student or planning to come to the US for work, the H-1B1 visa may be an option for you.
- Singapore: Up to 5,400 visas per fiscal year
- Chile: Up to 1,400 visas per fiscal year
These caps are separate from the standard H-1B cap and are often underutilized, which means less competition. In 2024, only 939 of the available 5,400 visas were issued to citizens of Singapore. This means no lottery was needed. The demand from citizens of Chile was higher, with 2,133 visas issued. Since the Chilean applicants that year exceeded the 1,400 H-1 B1 cap, a lottery was performed. Any applicants who did not win the H-1B1 lottery were automatically entered into the general H-1B lottery for that year.
H-1B1 vs. H-1B: Key Differences
While the H-1B1 and H-1B visas are closely related, there are important distinctions that international candidates from Singapore and Chile should understand. Below is a breakdown of how the two visas compare in terms of eligibility, duration, and long-term options.
| H-1B1 (Singapore/Chile) | H-1B (General) | |
| Initial duration | 1 year | 3 years |
| Renewal options | Two 1-year extensions (total of 3 years) | One 3-year extension (total of 6 years) |
| Visa cap | 5,400 (Singapore), 1,400 (Chile) | 65,000 (regular), 20,000 (Master’s cap) |
| Lottery system | No | Yes |
| Premium processing | Not available | Available ($2,805 fee) |
| Traveling with family members | Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for H-4 visas | Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for H-4 visas |
| Dual intent allowed | No* | Yes |
While the H-1B1 visa is not officially recognized as a dual-intent visa, it’s possible to transition from H-1B1 status to a green card under certain circumstances.
Pros and cons of the H-1B1 visa
The H-1B1 visa offers a range of advantages for eligible candidates, especially in terms of access and simplicity. However, it also comes with some limitations that are important to consider when planning your long-term career and immigration strategy.
| Pros of H-1B1 | Cons of H-1B1 |
| No lottery – Higher approval odds and predictable process | Shorter duration – One-year validity requires frequent renewals (maximum 3 years) |
| Simple application process – Can apply directly at a US consulate without prior USCIS approval | Non-dual intent – Applicants must show intent to return home, which may complicate green card transitions |
| Less pressure – A separate cap reduces competition and increases access | No premium processing – Slower processing times compared to H-1B |
Is the H-1B1 visa right for you?
For Singaporean and Chilean international students, the H-1B1 visa is a powerful alternative to the traditional H-1B. It offers predictability, less competition, and easier access, but requires careful planning due to its shorter term and non-dual intent status.
Now that you understand the H-1B1, you can make an informed decision about your next steps. Log in to the Interstride career portal to find jobs with employers who sponsor H-1B1 visas. Start your US job search today.
FAQs
1. Is the H-1B1 visa subject to the H-1B lottery?
No. The H-1B1 has its own separate annual cap (5,400 for Singapore and 1,400 for Chile) and does not require lottery participation, unless the number of applicants surpasses the cap.
2. How long does it take to get an H-1B1 visa?
It depends. Consular processing can take a few weeks. USCIS processing for a change of status takes 2–6 months, and premium processing is not always available.
3. Can I switch from H-1B1 to H-1B?
Yes. Switching to an H-1B allows for a longer stay and dual intent, making it easier to apply for a green card.
4. Can I apply for a green card from H-1B1?
Yes, but it’s more complex. Because the H-1B1 does not permit dual intent, many applicants first switch to H-1B status before beginning the green card process. Consulting an immigration attorney is highly recommended.
5. Can an international student apply for an H-1B1 while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
Yes. Many F-1 students from Singapore and Chile transition to H-1B1 after completing OPT. Applying at a US consulate provides more flexibility in timing.
6. Is a job offer required to apply for an H-1B1 visa?
Yes. Like the H-1B, you must have an offer from a US employer for a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.
7. Can I apply for the H-1B1 visa from within the US?
Yes, if you’re changing status (e.g., from F-1 to H-1B1) through USCIS. However, applying at a US consulate is often faster and avoids USCIS delays.
8. Is there a minimum salary requirement for the H-1B1 visa?
Yes. Employers must pay you the prevailing wage for your position and location.
9. Are spouses and children eligible for the H-1B1 visa?
Your spouse and children (under age 21 and unmarried) may apply for H-4 visas. Children on H-4 visas can attend school in the US without needing a study permit. However, H-4 spouses cannot work under this status without additional work authorization.
10. What if I change employers on the H-1B1 visa?
Your new employer must file a new H-1B1 petition and also submit a new Labor Condition Application (LCA) and potentially a new petition or consular application.
11. Can I travel while on the H-1B1 visa?
Yes. You may travel in and out of the US with a valid H-1B1 visa stamp. Make sure to carry proper documentation upon re-entry, including your employment letter and valid visa.
