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This is a question many ask themselves, and that we hear a lot. So much news coverage is centered around the high-profile H-1B visa that you may want to learn more about the H-1B process, which provides temporary work authorization for individuals working in professional positions. But perhaps you are discouraged because you do not have a university degree.
Don't be discouraged. The H-1B regulations require a foreign worker to have a college degree or its equivalent. It's a difference that is definitely worth exploring. Let's say that Paul, who is an avid computing enthusiast, worked for ten years before going off to college to pursue a degree in Computer Science. Let's also imagine that Paul was unable to complete his studies, finishing only two of his school's four-year program. He then went to work with a consulting firm as a systems analyst.
Even though Paul does not have a college degree, it is possible that his experience, when added to his education, may be equivalent to a four-year Bachelor's Degree from a United States university. It is important to carefully analyze Paul's professional and educational credentials. The precise requirements are found in the Code of Federal Regulations at 8 CFR § 214.2(h)(4)(iii)(D).
As part of our representation, we recommend that clients provide us with resumes/C.V.'s, employment letters, licenses, certification, diplomas and credit transcripts. The general rule is that three years of experience equals one year of university education. Therefore, if the two years that Paul spent in college only equal two years in a U.S. institution of higher learning, then he will have to show that he has at least six years of relevant experience to demonstrate an equivalency to a four year bachelor degree.
Having a college degree is definitely a great achievement. Experience, however, also counts, and it should not dissuade anyone from looking into the H-1B visa.
Contact Jacob L. Ratzan, P.A. at 786-406-1744 or info@ratzanlaw.com if you have any questions about the H-1B visa, or about immigration laws in general.
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