Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature and apply them to technology. H-1B physicists work at national labs (cap-exempt), quantum computing startups, semiconductor companies, and AI research labs.
Physics is a clear specialty occupation requiring a bachelor's degree in physics, applied physics, or engineering physics. PhD physicists qualify for O-1A (extraordinary ability) or NIW (National Interest Waiver) as alternatives to H-1B. National laboratories (DOE-funded) are cap-exempt and sponsor researchers directly. Quantum computing, semiconductor physics, and AI hardware research are high-growth areas for physicists in industry.