Employment Visa Options for Foreign Workers

Employment-based immigration allows foreign nationals to enter the United States legally to live and work. While some employment-based visas require an American employer to sponsor foreign nationals, others allow individuals to self-petition.

The type of employment-based visa you will apply for depends on the kind of work you perform, your educational background, and other factors. You may also benefit from exploring your options through our family immigration services, which support relatives seeking lawful status in the United States.

H-1B Visas

H-1B visas are temporary work visas that allow workers in specific fields to enter the country and work for an American employer for up to six years. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience, and an American employer must sponsor them. Employers in the U.S. often sponsor these visas to hire workers in fields such as finance, technology, engineering, science, and medicine.

H-2B Visas

H-2B visas are temporary work visas that allow American employers to hire foreign workers during peak periods or for seasonal work. Employers of workers in non-agricultural fields can apply for these visas if they work in industries such as landscaping, construction, and hospitality. Applicants must have a current job offer from an American employer, and the employer must show that there are not enough American workers to fill the position.

O Visas

O visas are non-immigrant work visas for foreign nationals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, athletics, or film or television. To qualify, applicants must show an exceptional ability in their field through international or national acclaim. Applicants must also provide thorough documentation of their recognition and achievement, such as publications, awards, or media appearances.

P Visas

P visas are non-immigrant work visas for performers, entertainers, and athletes who want to enter the U.S. temporarily to coach, compete, or perform. Applicants must provide evidence of their achievements, qualifications, and recognition in their field. They must also have a legitimate invitation or job offer from an American organization. The organization must also provide evidence of its involvement in the program or event.

L Visas

L visas are non-immigrant temporary work visas that allow companies doing business in the United States and abroad to transfer their employees to an American location from a foreign country. Employees must have worked for the company in a foreign country for at least one continuous year within the last 3 years. Additionally, they must be working in an executive or managerial capacity or possess specialized knowledge. They must be transferring to the U.S. to perform these same employment duties.

Our Immigration Lawyer in New York Can Help

The above are just a few types of employment visas available in the United States. At Nunez Law, our immigration lawyer helps applicants and sponsoring employers through the process to make it as easy as possible. Call us today at 917-708-1072 or use our online form to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.