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Talzent | 5 Min 24 June May 2024

What is the difference between H-1B Direct and H-1B Lottery Visas?

As an educator considering a move to the United States, it’s crucial to understand the different pathways available for obtaining an H-1B visa. At Talzent, we specialize in recruiting talented teachers from around the world and placing them in schools across the USA. Our comprehensive support includes assisting with H1B direct placements, ensuring you have a smooth transition to your new role. 

We hope to help you understand the key differences between H-1B Direct and H-1B lottery visas, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for your journey.

  • H-1B Direct Visa
    The H-1B Direct visa, also known as the Cap-Exempt H-1B, is a type of H-1B visa that is not subject to the annual cap imposed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This makes it a more reliable and timely option for certain applicants.
  • Key Features
  • Cap-Exempt: This visa is not limited by the annual cap of 85,000 visas, which includes 20,000 reserved for advanced degree holders from U.S. institutions.
  • Eligibility: Typically, educational institutions, non-profit organizations affiliated with educational institutions, and governmental research organizations can sponsor H-1B Direct visas.
  • Timeline: Applications can be submitted at any time of the year, providing greater flexibility.
  • Processing Time: Often, the processing time is quicker compared to the H-1B Lottery visa due to the absence of the cap.
  • H-1B Lottery Visa
    The H-1B Lottery visa, or Cap-Subject H-1B, is the standard H-1B visa that most private employers use to hire foreign workers. This visa is subject to an annual cap, making the process more competitive and uncertain.
  • Key Features
  • Annual Cap:Limited to 85,000 visas per fiscal year, with 65,000 for general applicants and 20,000 for those with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.
  • Lottery System: Due to high demand, USCIS conducts a lottery to randomly select petitions for processing.
  • Filing Window: Applications must be submitted during a specific period, typically in April, for employment starting in October.
  • Uncertainty: Given the lottery system, there is no guarantee of selection, making this a less predictable option.
  • How Talzent Supports Your H-1B Visa Journey?
    At Talzent, we understand the unique challenges that come with relocating to a new country for work. Our mission is to make this process as seamless as possible for educators.
    Here’s how we support you:
  • H-1B Placements: We partner with cap-exempt institutions, such as universities and non-profits, to offer you a more secure and timely visa option. This allows us to place you in educational roles without the constraints of the H-1B cap and allows us to place you any time.
  • Ongoing Support: Our commitment to your success doesn’t end once you arrive in the USA. We provide continuous support to help you adjust to your new environment, including professional development resources and community connections.

Conclusion

Navigating the H-1B visa process can be complex, but understanding the differences between the H-1B Direct and H-1B Lottery visas can help you make an informed decision.