H-1B

H-1B US Specialty Occupation Work Visa for Kazakhstan Citizens 2026

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant U.S. visa for specialty occupation professionals. It is intended for Kazakhstan citizens who have a higher education degree or equivalent professional experience and have received a job offer from a U.S. employer for a role requiring specialized knowledge.
The H-1B visa remains available in 2026, subject to annual limits.

What the H-1B visa allows

• Legal employment in the United States in a specialty occupation

• Work only for the specific employer and position listed in the petition

• Residence in the U.S. for the duration of approved employment

• Part-time academic study alongside employment

• Bringing eligible dependents under H-4 status

Employment must match the approved job description.

What the H-1B visa does NOT allow

• Working for an employer other than the sponsor

• Self-employment without proper authorization

• Employment outside the approved occupation

• Staying beyond the authorized period without extension

• Unauthorized work between employers

Any material change requires a new or amended petition.

Who can apply from Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan citizens can qualify for an H-1B visa if they can prove:

• A valid job offer from a U.S. employer

• A position that qualifies as a specialty occupation

• A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

• Professional qualifications matching the job

Both the applicant and employer are evaluated.

What visa officers really check

During the process and interview, authorities evaluate:

• Whether the job truly requires specialized knowledge

• Consistency between education and job duties

• Employer legitimacy and compliance

• Salary level compared to industry standards

• Intent to comply with visa conditions

The focus is on job legitimacy, not personal travel history.

Validity and stay rules

• Initial approval: usually up to 3 years

• Maximum total stay: 6 years

• Extensions possible in limited circumstances

• Entry type: multiple

Overstaying or working without authorization leads to serious consequences.

Petition and lottery system

• The H-1B visa is subject to an annual quota (cap)

• Most applicants must pass the H-1B lottery

• Petition is filed by the employer, not the applicant

• Approval is required before visa application

Selection is competitive and not guaranteed.

Common reasons for refusal or denial

Most issues arise due to:

• Job not qualifying as a specialty occupation

• Insufficient educational match

• Employer compliance problems

• Incomplete or weak petition documentation

• Failure in the lottery selection process

Strong employer preparation is critical.

How to apply

The process includes:

• Employer registers for the H-1B lottery

• Employer files an H-1B petition if selected

• Petition approval by U.S. authorities

• Completing the DS-160 form

• Attending a visa interview

• Receiving a decision

The applicant cannot self-apply.

Important note for 2026

• H-1B visas are available for Kazakhstan citizens in 2026

• Annual quotas and lottery rules apply

• Immigration intent is allowed under H-1B (dual intent visa)

Unsure if H-1B is right for you?

Before pursuing an H-1B visa, it is recommended to assess your professional profile and employer eligibility.
A proper evaluation helps determine realistic chances and alternative options.

Additional conditions

Employment is permitted only for the sponsoring employer and approved role.

The H-1B visa allows dual intent, meaning future immigration applications are permitted.

An interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate is mandatory for almost all applicants from Kazakhstan.