Work Visas

Employment-based visas allow qualified foreign nationals to live and work in the United States. There are several categories of work visas, each designed for specific types of employment and professional qualifications.

Common Work Visa Categories

• H-1B (Specialty Occupation): For professionals in fields that require at least a bachelor’s degree, such as technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare.
• L-1 (Intracompany Transfer): For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a U.S. office in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role.
• O-1 (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability or achievement in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
• H-2B (Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers): For temporary or seasonal non-agricultural workers when qualified U.S. workers are unavailable.
• TN (USMCA Professionals): For citizens of Canada and Mexico in designated professional occupations under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Key Considerations

• Most work visas require employer sponsorship
• Processing times and annual caps vary by visa category
• Some categories allow dual intent, permitting you to apply for permanent residency while on a work visa
• Spouses and children may qualify for derivative status

What You Should Know

Navigating work visa options requires understanding the specific requirements and limitations of each category. An immigration attorney can evaluate your qualifications, identify the best visa category for your situation, and guide you through the application process.