Foreign Degree Credential Evaluation for H1B Visa

Who Needs It?

The H1B visa is one of the most popular non-immigrant work visas, providing extensive opportunities for employment in the United States.

This visa allows foreign professionals in “specialty occupations” to work in areas like accounting, architecture, engineering, medicine, health, and more.

H1B Visa Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an H1B visa, foreign nationals must:

• Hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification in their field of expertise.
• Possess an unrestricted license to practice in the U.S., for professions requiring state licensing, such as teaching or pharmacy.
• Be sponsored by a U.S. employer. Note: Self-employment is not permitted under the H1B visa.

U.S. Bachelor’s Degree Criteria for H1B

Under U.S. immigration law, specialty occupations must:

1. Require a bachelor’s degree as the minimum qualification for entry.
2. Ensure that the applicant’s degree is directly related to the occupation.

What If You Have a Foreign Degree?

If your degree was earned outside the U.S., you can still qualify. U.S. regulations allow foreign degrees to be evaluated for equivalency to U.S. degrees.

• A 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited foreign institution is typically regarded as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
• If your education was completed outside the U.S., a Credential Evaluation will likely be required to prove equivalency.

Credential evaluations are crucial for demonstrating that your foreign degree meets the educational standards required for the H1B visa.

Combining Work Experience with Education

If your degree is less than 4 years, USCIS permits:

• Combining multiple degrees.
• Using progressive work experience alongside academic study. For example, three years of work experience can be considered equivalent to one year of U.S. university education.

What Is an H1B Credential Evaluation?

An H1B Credential Evaluation assesses whether your foreign education and/or experience meet U.S. academic standards.

Key Features of a Credential Evaluation:

1. Detailed descriptions of academic qualifications, including:
   • Degree earned.
   • Year of completion.
   • Institution attended.
   • Major field of study.
2. A statement confirming your foreign degree’s equivalency to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
3. Information about the institution where the degree was obtained.

Note: Credential evaluations that include work experience must be conducted by qualified evaluators affiliated with a college or university.

Why Is Credential Evaluation Essential for H1B Visas?

Since the H1B visa requires applicants to possess either a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, credential evaluations are necessary to confirm that your foreign degree meets these standards.

How to Obtain a Credential Evaluation for H1B Visas

You can secure a credential evaluation through the following methods:

1. University Assessment: An authorized university official who can grant college-level credits for training or experience can evaluate your credentials.
2. Recognized Programs: Utilize programs such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or PONSI to demonstrate equivalency.
3. Credential Evaluation Services: Work with a reputable credential evaluation service specializing in foreign education assessments for H1B visas.
4. Professional Certifications: Obtain certifications from accredited professional associations that validate your expertise in your specialty field.
5. USCIS Determination: USCIS may assess your qualifications based on a combination of education, training, and work experience.

Real-Life Scenarios

Scenario 1: Harry’s Success Story

Harry, a British national, wanted to work as an electrical engineer in the U.S. He had completed an apprenticeship 18 years ago, which included classroom education and hands-on training. Based on his extensive experience and apprenticeship, evaluators determined his qualifications were equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Harry’s H1B petition was approved, and he is now successfully working in the U.S.

Scenario 2: Michael’s Costly Mistake

Michael, a software engineer from Sweden, assumed his computer science degree from a reputable university would suffice for an H1B visa. He skipped obtaining a credential evaluation, thinking it unnecessary. However, USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE), revealing that his degree was not accredited by his country’s education system. As a result, his H1B application was denied, causing significant delays and expenses.

Conclusion

A comprehensive and accurate credential evaluation for H1B visa application. It ensures that your foreign degree meets U.S. educational requirements, helping to avoid delays, RFEs, or denials.

Take the Next Step

Don’t leave your H1B application to chance. Obtain a credential evaluation from a trusted provider before filing your petition. Contact our experts today for a consultation and ensure a smooth and successful application process.