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). ...
Full Answer
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 hard to get a working visa to USA?
You, yourself, as worker, can not get a work visa to the USA for the most part. A US based company that you will need to find, needs to agree to employ you for your skill set and then needs to sponsor an H-1B visa for you. That visa needs to be submitted to the lottery drawing in March.
How to work in the US without a visa?
- You must have a valid passport from your home country with an expiration date at least 6 months beyond your expected departure date
- Your passport must contain a scannable, electronic chip with your biometric information (i.e. ...
- Unless you arrive in the US in your own vehicle, you must have a return ticket to your home country or another foreign country
How to get a business visa for the USA?
- Consulting with business associates
- Traveling for a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or a conference on specific dates
- Settling an estate
- Negotiating a contract
- Participating in short-term training
- Transiting through the United States: certain persons may transit the United States with a B-1 visa
Is getting work visa in USA hard?
It is almost impossible to get a work visa for HR category as there is no dearth of recruiters or HR professionals in US, to warrant an employer to sponsor a work visa for you. As you may know, HR professionals have very limited role to play in the corporate structure in US .
How long does it take to get a US 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.
What is the easiest way to get a US work visa?
Petition Approval Before you can apply for a temporary worker visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, must be filed on your behalf by a prospective employer and be approved by USCIS.
Is it easy to get a work visa?
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 does a US work visa cost?
Visa Types and Application Fee Amounts The application fee for the most common nonimmigrant visa types is US$160. This includes tourist, business, student, and exchange visas. Most petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas, are US$190.
How much does a US work permit cost?
It costs $485 to apply for a Work Permit. Some applicants do not have to pay this fee. It takes an average of 5-7 months to get a Work Permit after you apply.
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.
Which visa allows you to work in USA?
Visa Classifications That Allow You To Work In The United StatesVisa ClassificationDefinitionF-1Foreign academic student, when certain conditions are metH-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, H-3Temporary workerIForeign information media representativeJ-1Exchange visitor, when certain conditions are met10 more rows
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).
Which country gives visa easily?
Germany. Germany is an easy country to get a work visa because of its labor shortage.
How much bank balance is required for US work visa?
The amount of bank balance you should have for applying to the US tourist visa depends on the duration. If it is a 15-day trip, you must have $ 5,000-10,000 in your bank. Is travel insurance compulsory for the US travel visa? No, travel insurance is not compulsory for the US travel visa.
Which country is best for work visa?
The Netherlands is known for the work-life balance that it offers. They are also famed for being flexible with their work visas. Known as the 'Orientation visa', it allows permits for a non-EU citizen and has no restrictions. You can stay in the Netherlands and work for a year once you complete your graduation.
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.
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.
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.
Is a B1 visa a work visa?
B1 visa is the easiest way to come to the United states for short term. In fact B1 visa is not a work visa. It is a business visa. But every company will send their employees to US for some business purpose. So, if you have good terms with your manager and the project you are working for is some how related to US.
Is a work visa country specific?
There are some other work visas also. Some work visas are even country specific. And getting country specific visas are very easy. Click this link to know more. And check if you belong to those countries. Different types of US work visas | Quick guide for 11 types.
Is it easier to get an H1B visa?
Sometimes getting h1b visa is easier than any other visa if you are lucky. But now a days there are so many rules and conditions. Most of the companies are following rules strictly to avoid rejection and getting bad name. If your company files h1b then it is not guaranteed that you are going to get it. I know some people who tried for four consecutive years and still was not lucky enough to get it. Luck plays a big factor in getting H1b visa.
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 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.
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 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.
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!
What is an H2 visa?
The H2-A visas are available for foreign agricultural workers who want to work in the United States on a seasonal or temporary basis, provided that there is a shortage of domestic American workers.
How long do you have to be a sponsor for a work visa?
If they can do that, then they can agree to “sponsor you” for a work visa. They guaranty you a job for 3 years at the prevailing wage. If you don’t meet their expectations, they must pay you way back to your country.
How long does it take to get an H1B visa?
If they offer you a job, you can then apply for a temporary work visa - the H1b visa. The application process is relatively quick - maybe 6 months long - and cost about $3000 in fees. Some people pay a lawyer lots more to fill out the forms, but that really ins’t necessary. The number of H1b visa issued each year is limited by law. Because so many apply, its become something of a lottery - only about 1 in 3 are selected to be processed. This is the one time that visa application fees are refunded - if they are not selected to be processed.
How much does it cost to get a H1B visa?
It costs them about $5000 to get permission. Most jobs that qualify pay more than $100,000 per year. If they offer you a job, you can then apply for a temporary work visa - the H1b visa. The application process is relatively quick - maybe 6 months long - and cost about $3000 in fees.
Do I need a work permit to work in the US?
You might be confusing it with companies saying that applicants need a “work permit” to be authorized to work in the US. I’ve definitely seen that. But that’s not a work visa. Because the only one that can get a work visa for you is the company that hires you.
Can HR professionals sponsor a visa?
As you may know , HR professionals have very limited role to play in the corporate structure in US . The simple answer to your question is that it is both easy and difficult. If the qualifications you have are short in supply in US, employers are willing to sponsor a work visa for you.
Can a company sponsor an immigrant?
But that company has to get accredited first to be allowed to sponsor immigrants. And then they have to spend thousands of dollars and wait months for the immigrant to even work one day for them. Most companies just don’t bother with that complicated process, so they don’t hire foreigners.
Is an H1B visa a lottery?
This is the one time that visa application fees are refunded - if they are not selected to be processed. H1b is not an immigration visa.
What is a temporary work visa?
What Is a US Temporary Work Visa? A temporary worker is an individual seeking to enter the United States temporarily for a specific purpose. Nonimmigrants enter the United States for a temporary period of time, and once in the United States, are restricted to the activity or reason for which their nonimmigrant visa was issued.
What are the requirements for a visa?
All visa applicants, except H-1B and L, will generally need to show proof of compelling ties to your home country to demonstrate your intent to return after your temporary stay in the United States. Examples of compelling ties include: 1 A residence abroad which you do not intend to abandon 2 Your family relationships 3 Your economic situation 4 Your long term plans
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.
How to change status of nonimmigrant?
If you are working in the US and want to change your status to another nonimmigrant category you must file a request with USCIS on the appropriate form before your authorized stay expires. In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were lawfully admitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, your nonimmigrant status remains valid, you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed any crimes that would make you ineligible.
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 a professional immigration expert. 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 apply for an EAD?
There are 4 main steps to apply for an EAD (electronic authorization document): Filing the I-765, pay the fees, upload photos, and provide documents proving you’re eligible. Before doing any of these steps it is important to know you are eligible or else you could be wasting time and money.
How long is a work permit valid?
How long the work permit lasts depends on your current immigration status, or what type of visa you are here on. Most EADs are valid for one year. However, no person will be given a work permit that lasts longer than their permitted stay in the United States.
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 is a temporary worker visa?
Temporary worker visas are for persons who want to enter the United States for employment lasting a fixed period of time, and are not considered permanent or indefinite. Each of these visas requires the prospective employer to first file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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.
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.
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 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.
How many visas are given to skilled foreigners every year?
Every year 65,000 visas are given to technically skilled foreign nationals. You could be the next one. Every year in the last week of April, they announce results through lottery. If the number of applications are less than 65,000 . Then there will be no lottery.
How to enter the US and live happy forever?
Most efficient and easiest way to enter the United State and live happy forever. The only thing you have to do is find a US citizen or a green card holder for you. In this world of technology, it is not tough to find someone in the United States.
Estonia
Estonia is one of the easiest European countries to get a work visa for digital nomads. It offers an excellent visa program allowing you to stay in Estonia for a year as a tourist while working remotely.
Norway & Svalbard
Norway provides a visa for digital nomads who want to live and work in Svalbard. Svalbard is an independent territory from Norway, and it’s one of the easiest countries to move to because you don’t actually need a visa. However, to get to Svalbard, you have to go through Norway, and you may require a visa for Norway- hence the digital nomad visa.
Australia
Australia provides several working visa programs. Because there are so many visa options available, this makes it easy to get a work visa because you have higher chances to qualify for at least one visa type. However, meeting the qualifications and criteria is not that easy.
New Zealand
New Zealand has several working visa categories. This makes it easier for you to search and find a visa that suits your specific set of skills. The best part about a New Zealand work visa is that people over 50 have several options they can choose from.
Germany
Germany is an easy country to get a work visa because of its labor shortage. Due to an aging population, Germany is focused on bringing in more immigrants to fill in the labor market. However, to get a work visa for Germany, you have to be a skilled individual and have work experience.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has an excellent program for entrepreneurs and start-up business ideas. If you have a business idea that meets the qualifications, you can apply for a one-year residency. During this time, you will meet with a mentor, work on your business, and make sure it’s a success.
South Korea
For native speakers of the English language, South Korea is one of the easiest countries to get a work visa to. This is because of its E2 teaching visa, which allows you to move to South Korea and teach English with only a bachelor’s degree. To qualify for an E2 Korean visa, you have to a native of one of the following countries:
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 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 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.
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) .
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.
