H-1B Temporary Workers

H-1B status is used for people who will perform services in a specialty occupation on a temporary basis. At Emory, it can be used to bring faculty, researchers, or other highly specialized professionals to the US.  

Emory does not sponsor part-time H-1B as the rules are different and require a great deal of documentation by the hiring department.  Also, there is a greater audit risk with part-time H-1Bs.   

To qualify for H-1B status, you must already have the degree, certificate, or license that enables you to practice your profession in the state of Georgia, if applicable.

Keep in mind that H-1B is a temporary non-immigrant status. You must be coming to fill a position temporarily, although the position itself may or may not be temporary.

Specialty occupations

To qualify as a "specialty occupation," the position must meet both of these requirements:

  1. A bachelor's or higher degree in a specified field is normally required.

  2. The job duties require specialized and complex knowledge.

Length of stay

H-1B status is initially granted for up to 3 years. You can apply for extensions, but the maximum stay is 6 years. H-1Bs may enter the U.S. up to 10 days prior to the start date on the I-797 approval notice and may be granted a 10 day grace period after the end date on the I-797 approval notice. To confirm the grace period given, check the I-94 each time. The 10-day grace periods aren’t automatically given and are up to DHS discretion. H-1Bs cannot work during the grace periods.

Dependents

You can bring your spouse or unmarried children under the age of 21 with you to the United States as H-4 dependents. 

Dependents in H-4 status cannot be employed, but they can study in the US. More info >>

Maintaining H-1B status

H-1B scholars have a number of immigration responsibilities, including reporting any changes in your employment, keeping your local address updated with USCIS, and more. What you need to do >>