Can I switch from H1B to O1?

Yes \u2014 separate petition; H1B continues until O1 approval.

All three \u2014 different categories: EB-1A (O1), EB-2/3 (H1B), L1 (EB-1C).

Premium processing fee?

$2,805 \u2014 15 business day decision.

Spouse work authorization?

L1B/L2: yes. O1: O3 spouse no work.

All foreign earnings still US taxable; treaty relief possible.

H1B vs L1 vs O1 Visa 2027

H1B: $90K min wage, lottery 65K cap. L1: intra-company transfer no lottery. O1: extraordinary ability no quota. Pick based on situation.

Currently Employed Abroad?

Extraordinary Achievements?

Expected US Salary ($)

PhD or Master's?

H1B Odds

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L1 Score

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O1 Score

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Best Choice

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Current employer	—
Achievements	—
Salary	—
PhD/Master's?	—
H1B lottery odds	—
L1 eligibility	—
O1 eligibility	—
Recommended visa	—

Three major US work visa categories: H1B (specialty occupation, lottery), L1 (intra-company transfer), O1 (extraordinary ability). Each has unique eligibility criteria, costs, processing times, and pathways to permanent residency.

H1B Specifics

Bachelor's or higher in specialty. Master's degree advantage (separate lottery). $90K minimum wage typical. Cap of 65K + 20K master's. Lottery: only 30-35% selected. Max 6 years. Sponsorship by employer required. Average $2,000-$5,000 in fees + attorney $2K-$5K.

L1 Specifics

L1A (executive/manager) or L1B (specialized knowledge). Must work 1+ year for foreign affiliate before transfer. NO lottery. No cap. Up to 7 years (L1A) or 5 years (L1B). Best for multi-national companies. Costs similar to H1B.

O1 Specifics

Extraordinary ability — awards, recognition, publications. NO lottery. NO cap. 3-year initial period + extensions. Common for tech executives, researchers, athletes, artists. Higher attorney costs ($5K-$10K). Requires extensive evidence portfolio.

Last updated May 2026. Sources: USCIS Work Visa Categories.