United States
Work Visa
The U.S. work visa program offers international individuals the opportunity to legally work and contribute to the diverse American workforce. Designed to address specific needs and skills shortages, these visas provide a pathway for foreign professionals, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs to engage in various industries across the nation. Typically, foreign applicants who wish to acquire a work visa must secure sponsorship from either a permanent resident or an employer.
To apply for a work visa in the US, the employer must submit a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Work visas in the US are categorized and granted based on the specific manner in which the applicant plans to work in the country. With different categories, the U.S. work visa system plays a vital role in fostering innovation and global collaboration while maintaining regulatory compliance.
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The primary categories for United States Work visas is as follows:
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work permit visa granted to foreign workers employed by a US employer to work in the US under a specialty occupation. The visa is typically valid for a maximum of 6 years. It is important to note that an individual cannot directly apply for an H-1B visa; it must be petitioned by the US employer on behalf of the foreign worker.
Specialized occupations that may qualify for the H-1B visa include:
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Science
- Medicine
- Other specialty skills
These occupations require a high level of expertise and typically involve specialized knowledge and skills. The H-1B visa program is designed to address skill shortages in these fields by allowing US employers to hire foreign workers who possess the necessary qualifications and expertise not readily available in the domestic workforce.
- The visa holder has the option to apply for a green card before their H1-B visa expires.
- They are also allowed to bring their spouse and children under 21 years of age to stay with them on an H4 visa. While on an H4 visa, the holder can pursue studies in the US but is not eligible to work. Their stay in the country is contingent on the presence of the H1B visa holder.
Eligibility
- The foreign worker should be at least a graduate.
- The degree of the employee should match the specialized occupation and should also be experienced to handle it.
Employees in specialized job roles and the subsequent subcategories are as follows:
- H-1B1: Skilled laborers from Chile and Singapore working in specialized positions as part of the Free Trade Agreement.
- H-1B2: Experts employed in specialty roles linked to Department of Defense Cooperative Research and Development initiatives or Co-production projects.
- H-1B3: Fashion models possessing exceptional skill and expertise in their field.
The H-1B Visa Caps for 2024 Fiscal Year are as follows:
- 65,000 visas allocated for the H1B regular pool.
- 20,000 visas specifically reserved for individuals with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.
Key Dates for H-1B Visa Lottery
The crucial dates for the H1B visa registration process in the USA are as follows:
- March 1 – Employers (petitioners) can begin creating an H1B registrant account at noon US Eastern time.
- March 1 to March 18 – H1B registration period. The registration window opens and closes at noon US Eastern time.
- March 25 – By this date, the USCIS will have notified the selected entrants.
- April 1 – If your employer’s petition was selected, this is the earliest date when you may submit an application for an H1B visa for the respective Fiscal Year.
Please note that the mentioned fees and costs are accurate as of January 2023 but are subject to change, and it’s advisable to verify them before commencing any application.
- If you require assistance regarding H1B visa filing costs and fees, please feel free to contact us.
H1B Visa Application Process
Step by step process on how to apply H1B visa:
1. Finding an H1B Sponsor/Employer
2. Electronic registration for H1B Lottery by Sponsor/Employer
3. USCIS notifies employers regarding registration selection results – Lottery Selection Results
4. Employer will file for Labor Conditions Approval (LCA) & submit Form I-129 – H1B Petition to USCIS
5. USCIS will send the H1B Petition Approval notices
6. H1B Applicants with approved petitions go for stamping as needed at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country
Supporting Documents for H-1B Visa Filing
1. Education records like diplomas, degrees, training & other evidence for that specialty occupation.
2. Maintain the copies & documents which will be the proofs for the contract between the employer & employee.
3. Certificates or affidavits by the current & previous employers stating the employee recognition & ability for that occupation.
4. Establishing proper documentation to have a clear employer-employee relationship.
5. Proper employment offer letter.
Visas Online Express will provide complete support and end to end assistance in documentation work & filing H1B visa.
H1B Visa Fees & Cost
There are a number of H1B visa costs and fees that will need to be covered as part of either an initial H1B registration or application, or when applying to extend of change status. Some of these costs are to be paid by the employer or sponsoring company, while premium processing fees is the responsibility of the employee.
1. $10 registration fee.
2. Basic filing fee $460 (I-129).
3. USCIS anti-fraud fee $500.
4. ACWIA Education and Training.
5. Employers with 25 or fewer employees – $750.
6. Employers with more than 25 employees – $1,500.
7. Premium Processing Fee is Optional $2500.
financial requirements
When it comes to H-1B visa dependents, such as spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21, it’s important to consider the financial aspect in a broader context. H-4 dependents (spouses and children) are allowed to accompany or join the H-1B visa holder in the U.S., but they are generally not permitted to work. The H-1B visa holder is expected to demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and their dependents during their stay in the United States.
This includes covering living expenses, housing, education (if applicable), and other essential needs. While there may not be a specific requirement for proof of funds during the H-1B visa application process, consular officers or immigration officials may inquire about the ability of the H-1B visa holder to financially support their family members in the U.S. It’s advisable for H-1B visa holders to be prepared to provide information about their financial situation, including employment details, salary, and any additional sources of income. It’s recommended to consult with an immigration attorney for the latest information on this.
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – H1-B | $1,480 |
How Visas Online Express can assist with Your H1B Visa Filing:
Navigating the sponsorship and H-1B visa application process can be a complex endeavor that demands careful attention. It’s crucial to avoid any errors or missteps that could lead to a denial or delay in your petition. This is where the expertise of a skilled H-1B immigration consultant comes into play to help secure your H-1B visa.
Visas Online Express has established partnerships with reputable US-based IT firms and consulting companies to facilitate the filing of US H1B Visa petitions for the respective fiscal years. We will work to secure an offer letter tailored to your applicant profile from the most suitable sponsor for filing your U.S. H1B petition.
We are dedicated to ensuring the accurate and secure submission of your petition right up until it reaches the immigration officer’s desk.
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee | $350 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Other petition fees to be paid by US employer | – |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
The H1B1 visa is exclusively available to citizens of Chile and Singapore. Individuals from these countries who are looking for temporary work opportunities in the United States can apply for this visa category. Sponsorship by a U.S. employer is a prerequisite for obtaining this visa. It offers an initial validity of 18 months, with the option for extensions.
The H1B1 visa is specifically designed for individuals engaged in specialized fields and grants them the opportunity to work within the U.S. Some examples of these specialized occupations include:
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physical sciences
- Computer Sciences
- Medicine and healthcare
- Education
- Biotechnology
- Business specialties
Benefits include:
- While initially granted for one year, the H1B1 visa can be renewed and extended for ongoing work opportunities.
- Accompanying the H1B1 visa holder, the spouse and children under 21 years old can also come to the U.S. using the H4 visa category.
- Children under the H4 visa are permitted to pursue education in the U.S., though employment requires a valid work permit visa.
Eligibility criteria
- Eligibility requires citizenship from either Singapore or Chile.
- Limited to specialty occupations involving both theoretical and practical application.
- Mandatory possession of a bachelor’s degree in the relevant specialized field.
- Sponsorship by a U.S. employer is mandatory; independent applications are not permitted.
- Must satisfy specific health and character criteria.
- Employment duration is strictly temporary.
- A job letter from the U.S. employer, detailing the specifics of the temporary role, is essential.
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – H1-B1 | $1,480 |
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee | $350 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Other petition fees to be paid by US employer | – |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
The H1C visa is designated for qualified nurses pursuing nursing employment opportunities in the United States. Applicants for nursing positions in the U.S. must possess a valid nursing license. The H1C visa has a limited validity of 3 years and is not eligible for renewal. Annually, the U.S. government issues approximately 500 H1C visas.
To qualify for the H1C visa, the foreign national nurse must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a complete and unrestricted nursing license.
- Hold a nursing degree and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Fulfill all requirements to be fully qualified and eligible according to the state laws and regulations of the United States.
The spouse and children of the H1C visa holder are permitted to enter the United States and enroll in universities or educational institutions. However, they are not allowed to seek employment without obtaining the necessary work authorization.
The O1 Visa is granted by the United States to individuals who possess exceptional talents and remarkable accomplishments in various domains such as sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, and more. This non-immigrant visa is specifically designed for individuals who have gained international recognition.
Requirements
Eligibility for the O1 visa is limited to those who have achieved a high level of expertise in their respective fields. The issuance of O1 visas is relatively rare, as they are exclusively awarded to individuals who have attained notable recognition due to their outstanding achievements.
The primary qualifications for this visa category encompass:
- The candidate should possess widespread global recognition and acclaim.
- The candidate’s presence and employment in the U.S. must be temporary in nature.
- Substantiation of exceptional accomplishments is mandatory.
- Submission of Form I-129 is a requisite step for the applicant.
The O1 visa is initially granted for a duration of 3 years, with the possibility of extensions.
- Individuals holding the O1 status can pursue green card status while remaining in the U.S. permanently.
- Assistants of O1 visa holders can accompany them and participate in events through the O2 visa.
- The spouse and children of the O1 visa applicant can accompany them using the O3 visa category.
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee + Attorney fees | $450 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Document preparation | variable |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – 0-1 Visa | $1,440 |
The P1 visa, provided by the United States, is designed for internationally acclaimed foreign athletes and entertainers. It caters to athletes who are part of teams or groups aiming to engage in events within the U.S. This visa permits athletes to enter the U.S. for participation, while also allowing entertainers to showcase their talents in the country.
The events they are slated to perform in must hold a notable and recognized status.
- The athlete or entertainer must possess global recognition.
- Their visit to the U.S. should be in relation to individual events or competitions.
- An official U.S. employer or agent must sponsor the applicant’s trip.
- Meeting health and character prerequisites is imperative.
- Submission of Form I-129, Petition for Non-Immigrant Worker, by the U.S. employer or agent is mandatory.
- Applicants need to furnish evidence of their recognition or awards.
The P1 visa authorizes the holder’s participation in events and competitions within the U.S.
- Its duration is tied to the event and cannot extend beyond 1 year.
- Individual athletes can be granted a visa for up to 5 years, while team visas are limited to 1 year.
- International athletes under P1 status can pursue a green card application.
- Spouses and dependent children can seek P4 visas to accompany and reside with the P1 visa holder in the U.S.
- While in the U.S., the spouse and children are eligible for educational pursuits but not employment.
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee + Attorney fees | $450 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Document preparation | variable |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – P-1 Visa | $1,440 |
The L-1B nonimmigrant visa facilitates the transfer of a professional employee possessing specialized knowledge pertinent to the organization’s activities. This transfer occurs from an affiliated foreign office to a U.S.-based office of the same organization. Moreover, this classification allows a foreign company without an existing U.S. office to dispatch an employee with specialized knowledge to the United States for the purpose of aiding in its establishment.
To initiate this process, the employer is required to submit a petition for a Non-immigrant Worker on behalf of the employee.
To qualify for the L-1B visa, the employer must:
- Maintain a qualifying relationship with a foreign company (parent company, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate) and be, or have intentions to be, an employer operating in the U.S. and at least one other country, either directly or through a qualifying organization, throughout the beneficiary’s stay in the U.S. under L-1 status.
- The business must be viable, but it does not necessarily need to engage in international trade.
- “Doing business” refers to the consistent, systematic, and continuous provision of goods and/or services by a qualifying organization, excluding the mere presence of an agent or office in the U.S. and abroad.
Additionally, the named employee must:
- Generally, have been employed by a qualifying organization abroad for one continuous year within the three years preceding their entry into the U.S.
- Intend to provide services in a specialized knowledge capacity to a branch of the same employer or one of its qualifying organizations.
“Specialized knowledge” denotes distinct expertise possessed by an individual in the organization’s product, service, research, equipment, techniques, management, or other areas and its application in international markets. This knowledge surpasses the ordinary and is not commonplace in the industry or the organization. In essence, the employee must possess expertise beyond mere familiarity.
For foreign employers aiming to send an employee with specialized knowledge to the U.S. for employment in a new qualifying office, the following additional requirements apply:
- Adequate physical premises for the new office have been secured.
- The employer has the financial capacity to compensate the employee and commence business operations in the U.S.
Moreover, L-1B visa applicants must meet specific health and character requirements.
- Eligible employees establishing a new office in the U.S. are generally granted a maximum initial stay of one year.
- Other qualified employees are typically allowed a maximum initial stay of three years. Extensions for L-1B employees may be granted in increments of up to an additional two years, reaching a maximum total limit of five years.
- The transferred employee’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may accompany or follow the employee.
- The spouse can apply for work authorization, while dependents are permitted to pursue studies.
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee + Attorney fees | $450 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Document preparation | variable |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – L-1B | $1,440 |
The L-1A non-immigrant classification facilitates the transfer of an executive or manager from a U.S. employer’s affiliated foreign office to a U.S.-based office. Additionally, this classification allows a foreign company that lacks an affiliated U.S. office to send an executive or manager to the United States for the purpose of establishing one.
To initiate this process, the employer must submit a petition for a Non-immigrant Worker on behalf of the employee.
- Eligible employees arriving in the United States to establish a new office are typically granted a maximum initial stay of one year.
- Other qualified employees are typically granted a maximum initial stay of three years.
- Extensions of stay for L-1A employees can be granted in increments of up to an additional two years, with a maximum limit of seven years.
- The transferred employee’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may accompany or follow the employee.
- The spouse is permitted to apply for work authorization, and dependents are allowed to pursue studies.
To be eligible for the L-1A visa, the employer must:
- Maintain a qualifying relationship with a foreign company (parent company, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate), collectively referred to as qualifying organizations.
- Currently opearate, or have plans to operate, as an employer in both the United States and at least one other country, either directly or through a qualifying organization, throughout the beneficiary’s stay in the U.S. under L-1 status.
- The business must be viable, but it does not need to engage in international trade specifically.
- “Doing business” involves consistent and continuous provision of goods and/or services by the qualifying organization, excluding the mere presence of an agent or office in the U.S. and abroad.
Additionally, the named employee must:
- Generally, have worked for a qualifying organization abroad for one continuous year within the three years immediately preceding their entry into the U.S.
- Intend to provide services in an executive or managerial capacity to a branch of the same employer or one of its qualifying organizations.
- “Executive capacity” denotes the employee’s authority to make significant decisions without extensive supervision.
- “Managerial capacity” pertains to the employee’s capability to oversee professional staff, manage the organization or a specific segment, department, function, or component of it. It may also refer to the management of an essential organization function at a high level, without direct supervision of others.
For foreign employers seeking to send an employee to the U.S. to establish a new office, the following additional requirements must be met:
Adequate physical premises for the new office have been secured.
- The employee has worked as an executive or manager for a continuous year within the three years before filing the petition.
- The intended U.S. office will support an executive or managerial position within one year of the petition’s approval.
Furthermore, L-1A visa applicants must satisfy specific health and character requirements.
Consular Fees | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
Filing Fee + Attorney fees | $450 |
Premium application fee (Optional). This fee is not required but can significantly shorten the processing time | $2,500 |
Document preparation | variable |
Medical Examination: | The cost of the medical test and examination may vary depending on the specific requirements. This fee is payable for all applicants and must be paid directly to the doctor conducting your examination. |
Character Clearance (Police Check) | The fee for obtaining character clearance through a police check varies. Fee is payable by all applicants to the police authorities in the countries where you have lived for 12 months or more |
Certification/Translation of documents Variable Payable to the Translator | Varies and payable to the Translator |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total USD |
|---|---|
US Work Visa – L-1A | $1,440 |
How Visas Online Express can assist with your H1-B Visa filing
Navigating the sponsorship and H-1B visa application process can be a complex endeavor that demands careful attention. It’s crucial to avoid any errors or missteps that could lead to a denial or delay in your petition. This is where the expertise of a skilled H-1B immigration consultant comes into play to help secure your H-1B visa.
With nearly a decade of experience in H1B visa filing, Visas Online Express has established partnerships with reputable US-based IT firms and consulting companies to facilitate the filing of US H1B Visa petitions for the respective fiscal years. We will work to secure an offer letter tailored to your applicant profile from the most suitable sponsor for filing your U.S. H1B petition. We are dedicated to ensuring the accurate and secure submission of your petition right up until it reaches the immigration officer’s desk.
If you decide to engage Visa Online Express services, a highly qualified Registered Migration Agent will carefully review your profile to determine your eligibility for a US Work Visa.
By choosing Visa Online Express, you will benefit from the best United States visa advice and comprehensive support throughout your visa application process, as we have a team of highly experienced United States visa and immigration experts at your disposal.
