adminLast reviewed: 25 October 2026. The H-1B fee situation is changing quickly because of court cases.
Searching for visa sponsorship in the USA brings up many confusing claims. This guide explains the main employer-sponsored routes and where they stand in October 2026.
Quick answer
- H-1B is for specialty occupations. Since 27 February 2026, registrations are weighted by wage level, with Level IV getting four entries and Level I one.
- The $100,000 H-1B fee was extended by a proclamation signed 18 September 2026 until 21 September 2027, but courts have blocked it. A Massachusetts court vacated it on 8 June 2026, and a California court barred enforcement on 30 September 2026. USCIS is not collecting it while the orders stand, and the government has appealed (9 October 2026).
- EB-3 green cards for skilled and other workers have long waits.
- H-2B seasonal visas are capped at 66,000 a year.
Routes compared
| Route | For | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| H-1B | Degree-level specialty jobs | Employer registers; selection is a weighted lottery |
| H-2B | Seasonal non-farm workers | Annual cap; employer must prove a temporary need |
| EB-3 | Skilled, professional and other workers | Employer sponsors; long backlog |
| L-1 | Intra-company transfers | Must have worked for the overseas company |
Checking a sponsor
- Ask for the employer’s legal name and address.
- Search for the company on the official USCIS employer data hub.
- Make sure you are never asked to pay the employer fees. In many cases the law requires employers to pay petition costs.
- Ask for the job offer in writing with the pay.
Travel and entry restrictions
A presidential proclamation effective 1 January 2026 restricts entry for nationals of certain countries, with Nigeria among them in some categories. Check the current State Department country page for your nationality.
Red flags and scams
- Anyone asking you to pay for a job offer, a visa slot or a “guaranteed” green card.
- Job adverts with very high pay for beginners, or no interview.
- Contact only through WhatsApp, Telegram or a free email address with no company website or address.
- Fake government sites. Official US immigration sites end in .gov. USCIS never asks for payment by gift card or crypto.
If you think you have been targeted, stop paying, keep all messages and receipts, and report it to the Federal Trade Commission or your local police. You can also email us at info@careerjobss.com.
Sources and references
- The Job Seek: H-1B $100,000 fee extended but blocked (21 October 2026)
- US Department of State: Visa Bulletin
- USCIS: Working in the United States
This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. US rules, fees and court decisions change often. Always confirm the current position on USCIS.gov or with a licensed immigration attorney before making decisions. Corrections are welcome at info@careerjobss.com.
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