USCIS requires proof that the offered job requires specialized knowledge and a bachelor's degree (or higher) in a specific field of study. To meet this requirement:

 

• The job title and duties should correspond with a degree in a specialized field (e.g., a Software Developer role requires a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related field).
• If the degree is in a different field, provide expert opinion letters or work experience evaluations to establish how the beneficiary's education and prior experience qualify them for the role.

3. Prove the Job Exists Either In-House or at a Client Site:

USCIS scrutinizes whether an H-1B employer actually has work for the beneficiary at the time of filing. To confirm the availability of work, the employer must show:

• In-House Employment: If the job is performed within the petitioner's company, provide organizational charts, project descriptions, work assignments, and payroll records.
• Third-Party Worksite Employment: If the job is at a client site, additional documentation is required, including:
• End-Client Letter (confirming the beneficiary's assignment, duration, and job duties).
• Master Services Agreement (MSA) (contract between the H-1B employer and the end client).
• Purchase Orders and Work Orders (to show actual project availability).

Providing these documents upfront will prevent RFEs related to third-party worksite placement.

4. Ensure Compliance with the H-1B Modernization Final Rule:

Under the H-1B Modernization Final Rule, petitioners must prove compliance with the updated specialty occupation criteria:

A. Specialty Occupation Definition:

• The Software Developer position qualifies as a specialty occupation because:
• The job requires specialized knowledge.
• A Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a relevant field (e.g., Computer Science, Information Technology) is a minimum requirement for the role.
• The job duties align with industry standards and the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) requirements.

B. Bona Fide Job Offer:

• The employer must prove that the job offer is genuine and non-speculative.
• Evidence includes:
• Offer letter detailing the job duties and required qualifications.
• Employment agreement with the beneficiary.
• Project documentation confirming the availability of work as of the requested H-1B start date.
• Supporting evidence such as contracts, project statements, and work assignments (attached as Exhibit D).

C. Labor Condition Application (LCA) Compliance:

• A certified LCA from the Department of Labor (DOL) must match the H-1B petition details (job title, location, salary, and SOC code).
• The LCA ensures that the employer complies with wage and working condition requirements (attached as Exhibit C).

D. Employer's Legal Presence and Ability to Pay:

• USCIS may request evidence that the H-1B petitioner is a legitimate U.S. employer and is financially capable of paying the proffered wage.
• Supporting evidence includes:
• Company registration documents (state incorporation papers).
• Business tax returns, bank statements, or financial statements.
• Employer identification number (EIN) and lease agreements (attached as Exhibit E).

E. Deference Policy – Requesting USCIS to Follow Prior Approvals

• If a previous H-1B petition for the same employer and beneficiary was approved, request deference based on USCIS's prior determinations.
• This means that, if no material changes have occurred, USCIS should approve the petition without additional scrutiny.

5. Reduce the Risk of an H-1B RFE with Proper Documentation: