Form I-129 · Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
Form I-129 walkthrough
A plain-English walkthrough of what the form asks and why. It explains the form; it does not replace it or the official instructions, which are the authority.
USCIS will accept only the 09/09/26 edition starting November 9, 2026. Until then the 02/27/26 edition is also accepted. The edition date and filing notices were checked on the official page on October 26, 2026. The section-by-section walkthrough below is our plain-English explanation and has not yet been compared line by line with the official instructions, so this page stays marked as a draft.
Who files
An employer petitioning for a worker in H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, H-3, L-1, O-1, O-2, P, Q-1 or R-1 status. Also used for extensions or changes of status, including E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B1 and TN.
What it does
Asks USCIS to approve a temporary worker for a specific job.
Where
By mail to the address for your reason for filing, or online for some classifications. USCIS changed some mailing locations on October 7, 2026; forms sent to a prior location are accepted if postmarked on or before November 9, 2026.
Cost
See the USCIS Fee Schedule (Form G-1055, edition 10/16/26). Fees change and USCIS rejects a request without the correct fee, so confirm the amount on the official fee page or fee calculator before you pay.
Walk through the form
Section names and numbers can change between editions. Follow the official form as you read.
-
1The employer and the workerWho and for what.
What it asks
- Employer details and tax IDs
- Worker’s details and passport
- Classification requested and dates
Evidence to gather
- Employer records
Tip: Use the supplements that apply to your classification.
-
2The jobWhat the worker will do.
What it asks
- Title, duties and wages
- Work location
- Dates of intended employment
Evidence to gather
- Offer letter or contract
- Approved labor condition application, where required
Tip: Job details must match the supporting documents.
-
3Fees and special rulesExtra charges and notices.
What it asks
- 9-11 Biometric Fee on covered H-1B and L-1 petitions (from September 9, 2026)
- Any other fee for your classification
Evidence to gather
- Fee payments
Tip: The $100,000 H-1B payment guidance was vacated by a June 8, 2026 court order; check the official page for current status.
-
4Supporting evidence and translationsWhat you send with the form.
What it asks
- Every document in another language needs a full English translation
- The translator signs a statement that they are competent and the translation is accurate
- Send copies unless the instructions ask for originals
Evidence to gather
- Civil documents for each person named
- Certified translations
Tip: Follow the evidence list in the official instructions for your exact category.
-
5Sign, submit and what comes nextThe last steps.
What it asks
- Read the statement carefully before you sign
- Sign personally. USCIS rejects unsigned forms
- Pay the current fee shown on the official fee schedule
- Keep a full copy of everything you send
Evidence to gather
- Receipt notice from USCIS after filing
- Any request for more evidence, with its deadline
Tip: Keep your receipt notice and answer any request before its deadline.
Common mistakes
- Using the 02/27/26 edition on or after November 9, 2026
- Missing supplements
- Using an old edition of the form, or mixing pages from different editions
- Mismatched names or dates across documents
- Missing signatures or translations
What happens next
After approval the worker gets a visa abroad or changes status in the U.S.
Official sources
- USCIS – Form I-129 (USCIS · checked: 2026-10-26)
- USCIS – Fee Schedule (G-1055) (USCIS · checked: 2026-10-26)
The official form and its instructions are the authority. If this page differs, follow the official source.
Move to America is an independent information and preparation service. We are not a government agency, not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government, and not a law firm. Nothing here is legal advice, and we cannot guarantee any visa or immigration outcome.