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Writer's pictureElton Truett

Main work visas for foreigners in the United States

In the US, there are several types of work visas, each geared toward different categories of foreign workers. Here are some of the most common:




1. H-1B Visa (Specialty Skilled Workers)

  • Purpose : For professionals in occupations requiring an advanced degree of specialization (usually at least a bachelor's degree).

  • Common Industries : Information technology, engineering, medicine, architecture, among others.

  • Duration : Initially up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension for a further 3 years, up to a maximum of 6 years.

  • Requirements : The employer must prove that the foreign worker has the necessary qualifications and that the salary is in line with the market.


2. L-1 Visa (Transfer of Employees of Multinational Companies)

  • Purpose : For workers transferred within the same company, in an executive, managerial position or one that requires specialized knowledge.

  • Subcategories :

    • L-1A : For executives or managers.

    • L-1B : For employees with specialized knowledge.

  • Duration : L-1A is granted for up to 7 years and L-1B for up to 5 years.

  • Requirements : The worker must have worked for the company outside the US for at least 1 year in the last 3 years prior to the transfer.


3. O-1 Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement)

  • Purpose : For individuals with extraordinary abilities in the areas of science, arts, education, business or sports, or with national/international recognitions.

  • Duration : Initially granted for 3 years, with the possibility of extension.

  • Requirements : The candidate must provide substantial evidence of his/her extraordinary achievements.


4. TN (North American Free Trade Agreement) Visa

  • Purpose : For citizens of Mexico and Canada seeking temporary work in specific occupations listed in NAFTA (now USMCA).

  • Duration : Granted for up to 3 years, with the possibility of renewal.

  • Requirements : The worker must be qualified for an occupation specified in the treaty.


5. E-2 Visa (Investors from Certain Countries with a Trade Treaty with the US)

  • Purpose : For citizens of countries that have trade treaties with the US, allowing them to enter to develop and operate a business in the country.

  • Duration : Depends on the country of origin and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the investment remains valid.

  • Requirements : Substantial investment in a US business.


6. EB-5 Visa (Immigrant Investors)

  • Purpose : For foreign nationals who invest a substantial amount (generally at least $1 million or $500,000 in economically disadvantaged areas) in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 jobs.

  • Duration : Grants a permanent residence visa (green card) after fulfilling the requirements.


7. H-2A and H-2B Visa (Temporary Unskilled Worker)

  • H-2A : For temporary agricultural workers.

  • H-2B : For non-agricultural workers in temporary services.

  • Duration : Normally granted for up to 1 year, with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of 3 years.


8. J-1 Visa (Exchange)

  • Purpose : For cultural and educational exchange programs, including internships, professional training and research.

  • Requirements : Varies by specific program, but includes an approved exchange plan and, in many cases, a requirement to return to the home country upon completion.


These are some of the most common work visas in the US, each with specific requirements and purposes. The appropriate type depends on the applicant’s purpose and qualifications.

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