FORM GUIDE
Form I-129: Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker — Complete Guide (2026)
The foundational form for O-1A, H-1B, L-1, and other work visas.
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Quick Answer
Form I-129 is filed by a U.S. employer or agent to sponsor a foreign worker for a temporary work visa. The filing fee is $460, and premium processing ($2,805) is available for most categories. OpenSphere handles the entire I-129 filing process for you.
What Is Form I-129?
Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, is the form used by U.S. employers or agents to petition USCIS to allow a foreign worker to come to or remain in the United States temporarily in a nonimmigrant status.
This form is the foundation for many work visa categories including O-1A (extraordinary ability), H-1B (specialty occupation), L-1 (intracompany transferee), TN (NAFTA professionals), and others.
I-129 Filing Fees
Fee Type
Amount
Base Filing Fee
$460
ACWIA Fee (H-1B)
$750 - $1,500
Fraud Prevention Fee
$500
Premium Processing
$2,805
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Who files Form I-129?
How long does I-129 processing take?
Can I change status with Form I-129?
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