- Applications can be submitted in person at a U.S. embassy.
- Applications can also be submitted online at the U.S. visa website.
- Print the confirmation page to bring to the interview if you submit online.
How to get an US visa without a job offer?
- through immediate family member who is a US citizen, sponsoring you
- through a real marriage to a US citizen (actually extension of item 1. ...
- by winning the DV-1 lottery if your country is eligible
What visa do I need to work in the USA?
- U.S. Green Card Holder
- Exchange Visitor Visa
- Temporary Work Visas (Non-Agricultural)
- Temporary Worker Visas (Skilled Workers)
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Visas
Is it easy to get a work visa in the USA?
Obtaining a US Work Visa
- Have a job offer from a US-based employer. Before you even start the process of a work visa application, you need to have had a concrete offer from a US-based ...
- An approved petition by the USCIS. ...
- There are some types of visas that require additional approval from the Department of Labour (DoL). ...
How do you apply for a work visa?
- A Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- An Employment Authorization Document (work permit), or
- An employment-related visa (allows work for a particular employer)
- Each of these documents has different application requirements depending on your specific circumstance and whether you are applying for temporary or permanent visas.
How can I get a work permit in USA?
How to apply for a Work Permit (in 5 easy steps)Step #1 - Apply for an immigration status that will allow you to work. ... Step #2 - Prepare Form I-765. ... Step #3 - Prepare your supporting documents. ... Step #4 - Pay the filing fee. ... Step #5 - Submit Your Work Permit application.
How long does it take to get a U.S. work visa?
about two to seven monthsHow Long Does It Take to Get a Work Visa? In general, it takes about two to seven months for the USCIS to process a work permit application. The time your work visa processes will highly depend on the type of visa you applied for. However, with extensive backlogs, there are longer wait times for obtaining work visas.
Is getting U.S. work visa easy?
Don't be intimidated by a long visa process—it'll pay off (sometimes literally). The work visa application process varies depending on your nationality and destination, but usually you'll need to first secure a job offer and sponsorship. Depending on your destination, you may also need to prove residency.
How much money is required for work visa in USA?
Working visa USA cost: non-petition based visa fees The application fee for nonimmigrant visa applications is $160.00. This includes the following visas: B visa for visitors & tourists.
Can you get a US work visa without a job offer?
A short answer is No. Unfortunately, you can't apply for a work visa without a job offer. Your prospective employer must be willing to sponsor you for the visa and petition on your behalf.
Can a company sponsor me to work in USA?
What is a US Visa Sponsorship? To be able to go to the US to work, you must first find a job. The employer must be willing to hire someone who is not from the US. The company you plan to work for must know that you are not a US citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR).
Can I move to USA without a job?
Some permanent work visas that do not require a job offer and a sponsor in the United States are the EB-1, O-1 and EB-5 visas.
How long is a work visa good for?
Non-Immigrant Work Visas H-1B visas are valid for the length of the employment contract, up to six years. Extensions beyond six years are unusual unless either the worker or employer pursues an adjustment of status from non-immigrant to immigrant, which would signal the intention of applying for a green card.
What is the easiest visa to get for US?
For many, a "B" visitor visa is the easiest and most appropriate one to get. (See 8 U.S. Code §? 1101.) The B visa a nonimmigrant visa for persons desiring to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1) or for pleasure or medical treatment (B-2).
How long can you stay in America with a work visa?
six yearsUnder U.S. law, a foreign worker with an H-1B visa can stay in the U.S. for a maximum of six years (plus extensions in certain circumstances, discussed below). The H-1B visa and status is initially valid for three years and can then be extended for another three years.
What documents are required for US work visa?
Here are the required documents for a US visa:An online nonimmigrant DS-160 application form. You can file the form DS-160 here.Your valid passport. ... One photograph. ... Receipt proving payment of $160 for a nonimmigrant US visa application. ... Social media details.
How much does a 10 year US visa cost?
How much does a U.S. Multiple Entries Visa R B1/B2 cost? The cost for U.S. 10 YEAR MULTIPLE VISA FEES AND APPLICATION R B1/B2 is USD 160.00. NOTE : Additional fees may be added by the United States government after you receive your visa and interview.
How long does the work permit take?
Processing Times In general, it takes about 150–210 days (5–7 months) for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process Form I-765. Previously, USCIS processed work permit applications within 90 days, but a growing backlog has caused additional delays.
How much does it cost to get a h2b visa?
How Much Does an H-2B Visa Cost? As of January 2021, the USCIS processing fee for an H-2B petition is $460. If you need to apply for a US visa at an embassy or consulate abroad, the visa fee is $190. Certain other fees might apply, depending on your nationality.
Can I work while waiting for my work permit?
If you received work authorization while your green card application is pending, there are no restrictions on your employment, and you can work for any employer. Of course, your employment must comply with both state and federal laws and regulations.
How can a Canadian get a US work visa?
Obtaining the O-1 Visa as a Canadian Citizen The employer in the U.S. makes the initial application by filing Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Workers with the USCIS, along with supporting documentation proving that the applicant fulfills the requirements for the O-1 visa.
What form do I need to file for a temporary worker visa?
Some temporary worker visa categories require your prospective employer to obtain a labor certification or other approval from the Department of Labor on your behalf before filing the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, with USCIS. Your prospective employer should review the Instructions for Form I-129 on the USCIS website to determine whether labor certification is required for you.
Where to schedule a visa interview?
You must schedule an appointment for your visa interview, generally, at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of your place of permanent residence.
What form do I need to bring for an L visa?
L Visa Applicants – If you are included in an L blanket petition, you must bring Form I-129S, Nonimmigrant Petition Based on Blanket L Petition, to your interview.
What is the purpose of a visa interview?
During your visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.
How long does a passport need to be valid for a visa interview?
Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview: Passport valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ).
What is a visa for a foreigner?
A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website.
What form do I need to schedule an interview?
You will need to provide the receipt number that is printed on your approved Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797, to schedule an interview.
When will the US suspend work visas?
On June 22, President Trump signed an Executive Order on suspending some US Work Visas until December 31, 2020.
What do you need to demonstrate at an immigrant visa interview?
Financial Support. At your immigrant visa interview, you must demonstrate to the consular officer that you will not become a public charge in the United States.
Do You Need a US Work Visa?
If you want to ensure your best chances at getting an approval on your US work visa application , then we recommend you book a consultation with us to understand your options. We have helped thousands and thousands of workers successfully enter the US on a work permit, and we can help you too!
What is a business visitor visa?
This business visitor visa is known as a nonimmigrant visa which is available for individuals approved to participate in work and study-based exchange visitor programs, including by business sponsors. This permit allows visitors to experience life in the US before returning to their home countries.
What is a permanent resident?
Permanent residents, other known as green card holders, are non-US citizens who are authorized to live and work permanently in the United States. Many people obtain their green card through a family based green card or employment based green card. Each year many applicants are awarded green cards in employment based categories.
Why is a work permit necessary?
Working in the U.S. is a sought-after goal for people from across the globe. In most cases, foreign nationals wishing to work in the United States will be required to apply for a U.S. work visa.
What happens if you get rejected for a work permit?
With so many applicants each year from around the world vying for U.S. Work Permits, it is important to get experienced legal help that will ensure your application package has the best chance of being accepted. Missed or incorrect details can result in a failed bid, which can be heartbreaking if they could have been easily avoided if prepared by an immigration professional . The stakes are high. If your application is refused, your case will be permanently recorded on the U.S. Immigration database. Therefore it is essential to get it right the first time!
How to get a work visa in the US?
Steps to Obtaining a Work Visa in the US. Step 1: Petition for nonimmigrant workers, Form I-129. An employer must submit Form I-129 on your behalf and this must be approved by USCIS before moving forward. Step 2: Complete the online visa application. Once USCIS approves the Form I-129, you can apply for the visa.
What is a permanent worker?
Permanent Workers: Are authorized to live and work permanently in the States.
What is an employment authorization document?
An Employment Authorization Document (work permit), or. An employment-related visa (allows work for a particular employer) Each of these documents has different application requirements depending on your specific circumstance and whether you are applying for temporary or permanent visas.
What is a temporary worker?
A Temporary Worker: Works in the US for a temporary period of time. Once in the States, this worker is restricted to employment and activity for which their visa was issued. Depending on their situation, this visa may be eligible for renewal.
What does "transfer" mean in the workplace?
To transfer and work at a branch, parent, or affiliate of the current employer in a managerial or executive capacity, or for a position requiring specialized knowledge. For persons with extraordinary ability or achievement in the sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, motion picture, and television fields.
How to get a work visa in the US?
To get a work visa in the US, start by searching VisaHQ.com to find out what the requirements are for the country you're a citizen of. Then, download and complete form DS-260, which you can find at the U.S. Department of State website. Afterwards, submit the form and agree on a time to meet with an immigration officer when they contact you. Make sure to bring along all the required documents, and consider hiring an interpreter if you're not fluent in English. For tips on what to do if your application is rejected, read on!
How much does a temporary worker visa cost?
Be sure to plan ahead so you will have the visa before you need to travel. The current fee for a temporary worker visa is $190.00.
How to make an appointment for a passport?
Note that appointments are required. Call the National Passport Information Center 24/7 at 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment.
What do you bring to the airport?
Bring your passport and any other information or documents they request.
How much does it cost to renew a passport?
Currently, for an adult (over 16) a U.S. passport costs $135 for a first time passport and $110 for a renewal. It takes 4-6 weeks for a passport to be processed in the U.S. Expedited service costs an additional $60 and reduces the processing time to 3 weeks.
How to make sure everything is complete on a job application?
Have a friend or family member look over your application and application materials to make sure everything is complete.
When to apply for a visa for a new country?
Apply for your visa as soon as you know you will be moving abroad.
What determines the type of student visa you need?
Your course of study, the school you plan to attend, or the exchange program you will be with will determine the type of student visa you will need.
What happens if you violate your work visa?
If you violate the terms of your work visa, it could be revoked. You could be deported, arrested, or denied re-entry into the U.S.
What is ESTA in travel?
Fill out the (ESTA) online application. ESTA determines the eligibility of a visitor to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.
What is an F-1 visa?
F-1 visa classification is for a full-time international student pursuing academic studies.
What is transit C visa?
Transit C visa classification is for foreign nationals traveling through the U.S. to another country and stopping briefly in the U.S. as part of their travel to the next foreign destination.
Can an international student apply for a student visa?
An international student can apply for a student or exchange visitor visa only after being accepted by a school certified in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Students’ records are kept in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Learn more about SEVP and SEVIS, and about the SEVIS fee.
Do you need an authorization to travel under VWP?
If you plan to visit the U.S. under the VWP, you must get an approved travel authorization prior to your trip. Authorization approvals are determined using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .
How to apply for an immigrant visa?
To be considered for an immigrant visa under some of the employment-based categories below, the applicant's prospective employer or agent must first obtain a labor certification approval from the Department of Labor. Once received (if required), the employer then files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the appropriate employment-based preference category. (NOTE: Persons with extraordinary abilities in the Employment First preference category are able to file their own petitions.) When filing the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, see the detailed form instructions, as well as more detailed requirements information on the USCIS Permanent Workers webpage.
How long do you have to wait to get an immigration visa?
Immigrant visas cannot be issued until an applicant's priority date is reached. In certain heavily oversubscribed categories, there may be a waiting period of several years before a priority date is reached. Check the Visa Bulletin for the latest priority dates.
Why do immigration cases take so long?
Employment based immigrant visa cases take additional time because they are in numerically limited visa categories. The length of time varies from case to case and cannot be predicted for individual cases with any accuracy. Some cases are delayed because applicants do not follow instructions carefully. Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional time after the consular officer interviews the applicant.
Where does the NVC send the visa application?
NVC then sends the file, containing the applicant’s petition and the documents listed above, to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where the applicant will be interviewed for a visa. The applicant, attorney, and third-party agent, if applicable, will receive appointment emails, or letters (if no email address is available), containing the date and time of the applicant's visa interview along with instructions, including guidance for obtaining a medical examination.
What form do I need to file for an alien worker?
The prospective employer must provide a job offer and file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with the USCIS.
What is an unskilled worker?
Unskilled workers (Other workers) are persons capable of filling positions that require less than two years training or experience that are not temporary or seasonal.
How long does it take to become a skilled worker?
Skilled workers are persons whose jobs require a minimum of 2 years training or work experience that are not temporary or seasonal.
What are the categories of foreign workers?
There are several categories of foreign workers permitted to work in the United States, such as permanent immigrant workers, temporary (non-immigrant) workers, and student/exchange workers. 1. The categories of workers permitted to work in the U.S. include:
What is an employment authorization document?
The Employment Authorization Document is proof to your employer that you are legally allowed to work in the United States. The following categories of foreign workers are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document: 4. Other workers depending on circumstances.
What is an EAD for a non-citizen?
1. This permit is officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which enables a non-citizen to work in the U.S. 2. It is the responsibility of both employers ...
Why do I need to file an I-765?
EAD cards are replaced for many different reasons. If a card is lost, stolen, or contains incorrect information , it may be necessary to file a new Form I-765 and pay a filing fee. 5 In some cases, a fee waiver can be requested for all fees.
What is a temporary worker?
Temporary (Non-Immigrant) Workers: A temporary worker is an individual seeking to enter the United States temporarily for a specific purpose. Non-immigrants enter the United States for a temporary period of time, and once in the United States, they are restricted to the activity or reason for which their non-immigrant visa was issued.
Can dependents work in the US?
Other workers depending on circumstances. Additionally, many beneficiaries and their dependents are eligible to work in the United States. Typically, the government grants this eligibility to a certain employer as a result of the beneficiaries' or dependents' non-immigrant status.
Do you have to provide a copy of birth certificate to an employer?
Employees must present original documents (not photocopies) to their employer as part of the hiring process. The only exception occurs when an employee presents a certified copy of a birth certificate. Employers must verify the employment eligibility and identity documents presented by employees and record the document information on an I-9 form for every employee.
What is a U.S. Visa?
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
Find out what visa type is appropriate for you
The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Visa Appointment Wait Time
A wait time listed as "999 calendar days" indicates that the Consular Section is only providing that service to emergency cases. Please check the Embassy or Consulate website for further information.
