H-1B status is reserved for individuals performing services in a specialty occupation, meaning the position must meet certain requirements of job complexity and/or degree level. At the NIH, H-1B status is offered to those holding Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) employment positions, i.e. Research Fellows/Clinical Fellows and higher. The Division of International Services (DIS) will file an H-1B petition with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of qualified prospective and current employees. Employees are responsible for learning, understanding, and complying with applicable U.S. immigration laws and regulations. It is important to take the necessary steps to maintain your H-1B status, as failure to do so can have significant consequences. Requirements to maintain status include, but may not be limited to, the following items: