The United States of America is one of the top countries for study and work in the world. In fact, jobs in the US. are the most sought after. But, before you consider moving there for work, it is important to understand the country’s work visa system. The US offers different kinds of visas for different occupations, allowing you to live there for definite periods of time. Read on if you’re curious about working in the US. and want to know more about the country’s work visas.
Why do you need a work visa for the US?
People from across the globe want to procure a well-paying job in the US. Therefore, if you’re a foreign national looking to work in the US, you have to apply for a work visa. The US offers different types of work visas. You need to choose the right one for you based on the type of work and stay period. Also, a free work visa in the US is one of the ways you can apply for permanent resident employment-based green cards.
What are the different types of work visas in the US?
Depending on your skillset and the kind of work you are seeking, there are different options of work visas for temporary employment. These include worker visas, business visitor visas, and investment visas. Here are some of the most common work visas in the US.
● L-1 visa
The L-1 work visa is best suited for those who are planning to expand their business or are being transferred to an American business. These are available to employees working under companies based outside the US but have subsidiaries or branches in the country. There are two different types of L-1 visas.
● H-1B visa
The H-1B visa is a free work visa in the US that allows individuals of other nationalities to work under special occupations. This visa is only valid for those who are highly skilled and can work in professional occupations. Individuals who apply for this visa are usually highly educated. But, this is not a necessity. Individuals with tons of experience in a particular industry can also apply.
● H-2B visa
The H-2B work visa in the US is suitable for both skilled and unskilled workers who work in non-agricultural fields. This visa is given out based on employment in the country as well as the working conditions of similarly employed citizens of the country.
● E2 and E1 visas
E1 and E2 visas are perfect for those who want to invest in companies in the US. The difference between the two is based on the country you are migrating from. People who apply for these visas are typically investors and traders.
● EB Green Card Permit
The EB Green Card class visas are employment visas that provide permanent residency. There are many different types of EB Green Card work visas based on skill, experience, proficiency, and occupation.
Other common work visas include seasonal agricultural worker H2-A visa and the Exchange Visitor Visa: J-1 Visa.
What are the work visa permit requirements in the US?
Applying for a free work visa in the US is no piece of cake. There are lots of criteria that need to be met. Read on to a few of these.
● Your passport(s) should be valid for 60 days beyond the date of expiration mentioned on the visa.
● You must prove that you can support yourself financially and will not be a public charge to the country.
● You must complete your medical examination forms
● You must submit all necessary documents such as the DS-260, Immigrant Visa, and Alien Registration Application along with your civil documents.
Individuals applying will also be required to visit the local embassy or consulate for an interview. Typically, the processing time for a work visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for, as well as the area where the application is being processed.
