by Interstride
If you’re from Singapore or Chile, the H-1B1 visa offers a unique post-graduation work opportunity in the U.S., designed exclusively for citizens of these two countries. This guide explains how the H-1B1 visa works, how it compares to the standard H-1B, and how it can support your long-term career and immigration goals.
What is the H-1B1 Visa?
The H-1B1 visa is a sub-category of the H-1B visa, reserved specifically for citizens of Singapore and Chile through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the U.S. It allows qualified professionals to work in the U.S. in specialty occupations—roles that typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Common qualifying jobs include:
- Software developer
- Financial analyst
- Architect
- Engineer
- Economist
- Research scientist
- Accountant
How Many Visas Are Available?
Whether you’re a current F-1 international student or planning to work in the U.S., the H-1B1 visa may be an option worth exploring.
- Singapore: Up to 5,400 visas per fiscal year
- Chile: Up to 1,400 visas per fiscal year
These caps are separate from the standard H-1B cap and are often underutilized, which means less competition.
In 2024, only 939 of the available 5,400 visas were issued to citizens of Singapore, meaning no lottery was required. Demand from citizens of Chile was higher, with 2,133 visas issued. Because this exceeded the 1,400 cap, a lottery was conducted. Applicants not selected were automatically entered into the general H-1B lottery for that year.
H-1B1 vs. H-1B: Key Differences
While the H-1B1 and H-1B visas are closely related, there are important distinctions that international candidates from Singapore and Chile should understand.Â
| H-1B1 (Singapore/Chile) | H-1B (General) | |
| Initial duration | 1 year | 3 years |
| Renewal options | Two 1-year extensions (up to 3 years total) | One 3-year extension (up to 6 years total) |
| Visa cap | 5,400 (Singapore), 1,400 (Chile) | 65,000 (regular), 20,000 (Master’s cap) |
| Lottery system | No | Yes |
| Premium processing | Not available | Available ($2,805 fee) |
| Traveling with family members | Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for H-4 visas | Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for H-4 visas |
| Dual intent allowed | No | Yes |
While the H-1B1 visa is not officially recognized as a dual-intent visa, it may still be possible to transition to permanent residency under certain circumstances.​ The H-1B1 visa offers several advantages for eligible candidates, but it also has limitations that should be considered as part of a long-term strategy. For Singaporean and Chilean international students, the H-1B1 visa can be a strong alternative to the traditional H-1B. It offers predictability, reduced competition, and easier access, but requires careful planning due to its shorter duration and non-dual intent status. Now that you understand the H-1B1, you can make an informed decision about your next steps. Log in to the Interstride career portal to find jobs with employers who sponsor H-1B1 visas. Start your US job search today. No. The H-1B1 has its own separate annual cap (5,400 for Singapore and 1,400 for Chile) and does not require lottery participation, unless the number of applicants surpasses the cap. It depends. Consular processing can take a few weeks. USCIS processing for a change of status takes 2–6 months, and premium processing is not always available. Yes. Switching to an H-1B allows for a longer stay and dual intent, making it easier to apply for a green card. Yes, but it’s more complex. Because the H-1B1 does not permit dual intent, many applicants first switch to H-1B status before beginning the green card process. Consulting an immigration attorney is highly recommended. Yes. Many F-1 students from Singapore and Chile transition to H-1B1 after completing OPT. Applying at a US consulate provides more flexibility in timing. Yes. Like the H-1B, you must have an offer from a US employer for a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. Yes, if you’re changing status (e.g., from F-1 to H-1B1) through USCIS. However, applying at a US consulate is often faster and avoids USCIS delays. Yes. Employers must pay you the prevailing wage for your position and location. Your spouse and children (under age 21 and unmarried) may apply for H-4 visas. Children on H-4 visas can attend school in the US without needing a study permit. However, H-4 spouses cannot work under this status without additional work authorization. Your new employer must file a new H-1B1 petition and also submit a new Labor Condition Application (LCA) and potentially a new petition or consular application. Yes. You may travel in and out of the US with a valid H-1B1 visa stamp. Make sure to carry proper documentation upon re-entry, including your employment letter and valid visa.Pros and Cons Of The H-1B1 Visa
Pros of H-1B1
Cons of H-1B1Â
No lottery – Higher approval odds and a more predictable process
Shorter duration – One-year validity requires frequent renewals (maximum 3 years)
Simple application process – Can apply directly at a U.S. consulate without prior USCIS approval​
Non-dual intent – Applicants must show intent to return home, which may complicate green card transitions
Less competition – A separate cap reduces competition and increases access
No premium processing – Slower processing times compared to H-1B
Is the H-1B1 visa right for you?
FAQs
1. Is the H-1B1 visa subject to the H-1B lottery?
2. How long does it take to get an H-1B1 visa?
3. Can I switch from H-1B1 to H-1B?
4. Can I apply for a green card from H-1B1?
5. Can an international student apply for an H-1B1 while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
6. Is a job offer required to apply for an H-1B1 visa?
7. Can I apply for the H-1B1 visa from within the US?
8. Is there a minimum salary requirement for the H-1B1 visa?
9. Are spouses and children eligible for the H-1B1 visa?
10. What if I change employers on the H-1B1 visa?
11. Can I travel while on the H-1B1 visa?
