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An H-1B visa is initially granted for up to 3 years and can be extended for another 3 years, for a maximum total of 6 years.
Extensions Beyond 6 Years:
- Possible if you have an approved I-140 petition (Green Card petition)
- You can extend in 1-year increments
- No maximum limit if I-140 is approved
Important: The 6-year limit applies to H-1B status, not the visa stamp. You can renew your visa stamp multiple times as long as your status is valid.
When going for H-1B visa stamping at a U.S. consulate, bring:
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- H-1B approval notice (I-797)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Recent passport photos
- Employment verification letter
- Pay stubs
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Previous visa documents (if any)
Yes, you can change employers on H-1B through the H-1B transfer process:
- New employer files a new H-1B petition
- You can start working for new employer once petition is filed (portability rule)
- No need to wait for approval if previous H-1B was valid
- Premium processing recommended for faster approval
Important: Make sure your new employer files the petition before your current H-1B expires.
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