The H-1B visa is a temporary or non-immigrant "specialty occupation" US visa, which means the holder is employed in a position that requires specialized skills or knowledge. Jobs that suit the H-1B visa typically need a university degree or equivalent (which can mean 3 years' of progressive work experience for each year that would normally be spent at university). The position should be one that would normally require that level of experience. The H-1B visa is valid for three years, with one possible additional three-year extension, making six years' maximum stay in total. The H-1B program is highly regulated and numerically limited. Having a skilled immigration attorney represent the employer to navigate the complex Labor Condition Application and H-1B petition process before the U.S. Departments of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is very helpful and of value to many companies.