Last Updated on December 14, 2025 by JR

H-1B1 Visa FAQs (Chile & Singapore)

Is H-1B1 the same as H-1B?

No. H-1B1 is a separate specialty-occupation category specifically for eligible citizens of Chile or Singapore.
It has different procedures and is often handled through consular processing.

Do I need a USCIS petition before applying for an H-1B1 visa?

Often, no. Many H-1B1 applicants apply directly through a U.S. consulate using employer documentation.
In some situations (for example, certain changes or extensions of status in the U.S.), a USCIS filing may be used.

Is a Labor Condition Application (LCA) required for H-1B1?

Yes. The employer generally must complete the required LCA steps (ETA 9035/9035E) for H-1B1 employment.
Applicants commonly present the certified LCA at the visa interview.

Is H-1B1 “dual intent”?

Generally, no. H-1B1 is typically treated as subject to the nonimmigrant intent framework (INA 214(b)),
unlike H-1B which is associated with dual intent.

How long is H-1B1 valid?

H-1B1 employment is commonly structured in one-year increments. Extension strategy depends on the facts and compliance requirements.

Can my spouse work in the U.S. if I have H-1B1?

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may qualify for H-4 dependent status. Work authorization is not automatic.
The H-4 employment authorization category is tied to specific eligibility rules connected to certain H-1B principals,
so if spouse work authorization is a key issue, it should be evaluated carefully based on your exact situation.

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H-1B1 Visa Lawyer for Chile & Singapore Professionals

The H-1B1 is a temporary work visa category for certain
Chilean and Singaporean professionals with a U.S. job offer
in a specialty occupation. My office helps employers and applicants confirm
eligibility, prepare documentation, and avoid common pitfalls.

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What is the H-1B1 visa?

H-1B1 is a specialty-occupation work category for eligible citizens of Chile or Singapore.
The U.S. Department of State describes H-1B1 as not a petition-based visa
for application procedures (many applicants apply through a U.S. consulate), although
USCIS filings can be relevant in certain change/extension scenarios.

Key requirements (high-level)

Citizenship: Chile or Singapore
Job offer: Specialty occupation position with a U.S. employer
Credentials: Degree (or equivalent) closely related to the role
LCA: Employer must generally complete Labor Condition Application (LCA) steps

Important planning issue: nonimmigrant intent

Unlike H-1B, H-1B1 is generally treated as subject to the nonimmigrant intent framework
under INA 214(b), so how you present ties, plans, and timing can matter—especially for
consular processing.

Family members

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may seek H-4 dependent status.
If your spouse needs work authorization, planning is critical: employment authorization
rules are narrow and are tied to specific eligibility categories (commonly associated with
certain spouses of H-1B principals).

Talk to an H-1B1 visa lawyer

If you are a Chilean or Singaporean professional with a U.S. job offer, schedule a free consultation
to confirm eligibility and the most efficient filing strategy.

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Not sure H-1B1 is the right fit? Compare other options here:

20 Non-Immigrant Visas (Free Consultation)
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