America L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa
America H-1B, H-2A, H-2B and H3 Temporary Work Visa
America O Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)
America I Visa (Journalists and Media Workers)
America P Visa (Athletes, Artists and Entertainers)
America Q-1 Cultural Exchange Program Visa
America R Visa (Religious Workers)
📝 H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 Temporary Work Visas for the USA
There are various work visas available for foreign nationals who wish to work temporarily in the United States. These visas differ depending on the applicant's professional qualifications, the sector of employment, and the duration of the work. The H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visas fall into these categories and can be applied for based on specific requirements and processes.
📄 H-1B Visa: For Specialized Occupations
The H-1B visa is designed for individuals who wish to work in the United States in specialized occupations that require a specific level of education. The applicant must have at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent in the field of work they are applying for. Additionally, the position must require specialized knowledge or expertise.
Each year, there is a cap on the number of H-1B visas issued, and applications are typically accepted in April. If the number of applications exceeds the available visas, a lottery system is applied. The H-1B visa is usually granted for an initial period of 3 years and can be extended for an additional 3 years.
H-1B visa holders' spouses and children under 21 years old and unmarried can join them in the U.S. with an H-4 visa. H-4 visa holders may apply for work authorization under certain conditions.
📄 H-2A Visa: For Temporary Agricultural Workers
The H-2A visa is for foreign nationals who wish to work temporarily in the agricultural sector in the United States. The applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in the agricultural industry. The employer must obtain approval from the Department of Labor to bring in foreign workers on H-2A visas.
While working in the U.S., H-2A visa holders are entitled to housing, food, and transportation, which must be provided by the employer. H-2A workers are exempt from Social Security and Medicare taxes.
📄 H-2B Visa: For Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers
The H-2B visa is for foreign nationals who wish to work temporarily in non-agricultural sectors in the United States. Similar to the H-2A visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a non-agricultural field. The employer must prove the need for temporary workers and provide evidence to support the application.
The working conditions and wages for H-2B visa holders must be equal to those of U.S. workers in similar positions. The employer is required to clearly specify the working conditions and salary.
📄 H-3 Visa: For Trainees or Special Education Visitors
The H-3 visa is for foreign nationals who wish to come to the U.S. to receive training or special education. The applicant must have been accepted into a training program or special education course offered by a U.S. institution or organization.
The H-3 visa can be granted for up to 2 years for trainees and up to 18 months for special education visitors. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of H-3 visa holders can join them in the U.S. with an H-4 visa. H-4 visa holders may apply for work authorization under certain conditions.
📄 Application Process and Required Documents
To apply for a temporary work visa, the applicant must first receive a job offer from a U.S. employer. The employer must prepare the necessary documents and submit them to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the relevant authorities.
After approval, the applicant must apply for the visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. During the application process, documents such as the passport, biometric photograph, DS-160 form, I-129 form, and I-797 form may be requested.
It is important to carefully complete the application forms and provide the correct documentation. A small mistake or missing information can lead to the rejection of the visa application.
📄 Family Members
The spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of temporary work visa holders can join them in the U.S. with an H-4 visa. H-4 visa holders are allowed to stay in the U.S. for the same duration as the primary applicant. However, H-4 visa holders must meet certain conditions to apply for work authorization in the U.S.