Chile / Singapore Citizens

H-1B1 Visa and Labor Condition Application

Securing Work Visas for Citizens of Chile or Singapore

In 2003, the United States entered into free trade agreements with the governments of Chile and Singapore. The H1B1 visa allows U.S. employers to sponsor citizens of these countries for employment-based work visa status for professional positions.

The treaties establish a limit on non-immigrant employee visas issued for each fiscal year:

• A maximum of 1,400 H-1B1 visas for citizens of Chile.
• A maximum of 5,400 H-1B1 visas for citizens of Singapore.

Thirty Years of Exclusive Practice in U.S. Immigration

An experienced immigration lawyer at The Shapiro Law Group can discuss H1B1 requirements or a specific case. Based in Chicago, Illinois, we represent employers throughout the Midwest and across the United States, from smallest businesses to the largest corporations. Contact us online or call us at (847) 564-0712 to arrange a consultation.

H-1B1 Work Visa for Citizens of Chile or Singapore

Under the treaties with Chile and Singapore treaties, effective Jan. 1, 2004, American employers can sponsor professionals for non-immigrant employee visa status to fill positions in the United States. The job must be in a "specialty occupation", which is defined the same as for H-1B professionals.

The sponsored employee must:

• Prove Chilean citizenship or Singaporean citizenship.
• Demonstrate that he/she will perform a position requiring theoretical or practical application of a body of specialized knowledge, and has attained a bachelor’s or higher degree or its equivalent.
• Demonstrate that he/she has either the minimum education or employment experience required to perform a profession or occupation.

The US employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) as a requirement for sponsoring an individual for an H-1B1 visa. The Shapiro Law Group advises and assists with all documentation on behalf of the employer and employee.

Non-Immigrant Restrictions and H-1B1 Extensions

Sponsored citizens of Chile or Singapore granted H-1B1 visas are initially allowed to stay in the U.S. for up to one year. Work authorization may be renewed in one-year increments. H-1B1 visas are “indefinitely renewable,” subject the following important requirement:

• Non-Immigrant Intent: If the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines that an H1B1 non-immigrant intends to obtain permanent residence status (green card), the H-1B1 visa will be denied.

Application for the H-1B1 visa is made through an American Consulate located in Chile or Singapore, after the USDOL approves the U.S. employer’s Labor Condition Application.

H1B1 Consultation at (847) 564-0712

We have represented major corporations, but extend our services to all U.S. employers. Our attorneys possess full knowledge of the Free Trade Agreements, consular processes, and regulatory requirements of U.S. agencies to expedite H-1B1 applications in a timely manner. Contact our Chicago office to discuss your particular needs. We respond promptly to all inquiries.