1. What types of work visas are available in the U.S.?

There are numerous types of work visas available in the U.S. including: H-1B visas for specialty occupations, L-1 visas for intra-company transfers, E-1 and E-2 visas for treaty traders and investors, O-1 visas for individuals with extraordinary ability, TN visas for Canadian and Mexican professionals, and J-1 visas for exchange visitors.

2. How do I apply for a U.S. work visa?

To apply for a U.S. work visa, you must first determine which visa type is appropriate for your circumstances. Depending on the type of visa, you may need to obtain a petition from an employer or an approved sponsor, fill out an application form, submit supporting documents, pay a fee, and attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Applications for certain visa types can also be submitted online. For more detailed information about the application process for specific U.S. work visas, please visit the U.S. Department of State’s website.

3. How long does it take to get a U.S. work visa?

The amount of time it takes to get a U.S. work visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, it can take anywhere from several days to several months for the process to be completed.

4. How much does a U.S. work visa cost?

The cost of a U.S. work visa varies depending on the type of visa. However, the base application fee for most employment-based visas is $460. Additional fees may also apply, depending on the specific type of visa.

5. What documents do I need to get a U.S. work visa?

In the United States, obtaining a work visa typically requires the following documents:

1. Passport valid for travel to the United States
2. Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a Form I-766
3. Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker
4. Evidence of the employer’s ability to pay the foreign worker’s wages (such as IRS Form W-2)
5. Proof of the foreign worker’s qualifications and experience
6. Labor Certification from the Department of Labor (Form ETA-9089)
7. Nonimmigrant Visa application form (Form DS-160)
8. Application fee
9. Two passport photos
10. Evidence of strong ties to your home country such as family members, property, or bank accounts

6. What is an H-1B visa?

An H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. To qualify for an H-1B visa, the foreign worker must have a higher education degree or its equivalent. The position must be in a specialty occupation, which requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and must meet certain criteria set by the U.S. Department of Labor. The employer must also offer wages that are equal to or greater than the prevailing wage for that particular occupation in the area of employment.

7. Do I need to submit a petition for an H-1B visa?

Yes, you will need to submit a petition for an H-1B visa. The petition must be filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petition should include information about your qualifications and experience, as well as evidence of a qualifying employer-employee relationship.

8. What is the difference between an H-1B visa and an L-1 visa?

An H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant visa used to bring foreign workers to the United States temporarily in specialty occupations. An L-1 visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals who work for an international company to transfer to a US-based office. The key difference is that an H-1B visa is for temporary employment in the U.S., while an L-1 visa is for transfer of an employee from a foreign company to a U.S. based branch or affiliate.

9. What is the duration of an H-1B visa?

The duration of an H-1B visa is typically 3 years, but it can be extended up to 6 years in certain circumstances.

10. How can I apply for a STEM OPT extension?

You must submit the following documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

• Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization;

• Form I-983, the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students;

• A copy of your passport and visa;

• A copy of your most recent Form I-20; and

• The filing fee of $410.00.

You can find more information on the USCIS website.

11. What is the time frame for a STEM OPT extension?

A STEM OPT extension generally lasts for 24 months.

12. What are the requirements to qualify for a STEM OPT extension?

To qualify for a STEM OPT extension, the student must have an eligible STEM degree from an accredited U.S. college or university and currently hold F-1 status. The student must also have a job offer from a U.S. employer who is enrolled in the E-Verify program and has a valid Form I-983 Training Plan approved by the DSO.

13. Does a STEM OPT extension allow me to travel outside the US?

Yes, with a valid I-20 form endorsed by a DSO, and valid travel signature, a student on a STEM OPT extension can travel outside the US and return without having to apply for a new visa.

14. How long can I stay in the US with a STEM OPT extension?

You may stay in the US for up to 24 months with a STEM OPT extension.

15. Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do with a STEM OPT extension?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of work you can do with a STEM OPT extension. You must work in a field that is directly related to the degree you obtained on your student visa. You must also work in a job that is appropriate for someone with your level of training and experience, such as an internship or research assistant position. Furthermore, the employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program and provide formal training opportunities.

16. How often do I have to report my progress and activities while in the US on a STEM OPT extension?

You must report your progress and activities to your designated school official (DSO) every six months while in the US on a STEM OPT extension. In addition, you must also report any change in employment or other required information to your DSO within 10 days of the change.

17. Are there any fees associated with obtaining a STEM OPT extension?

Yes, students must pay a fee to apply for their STEM OPT extension. The fees are $410 for the Form I-765, plus any applicable biometrics fees.

18. What happens if my STEM OPT extension application is denied?

If your STEM OPT application is denied, you must stop working immediately. You must also inform your employer that your application was denied and that you can no longer continue working in the US. You will have to leave the US or apply for a different visa status in order to remain in the US.

19 Do I need to be employed by an employer while enrolled in the STEM OPT program?

Yes. You must be employed by an employer in a job directly related to your degree field while enrolled in the STEM OPT program. You must also work at least 20 hours per week during your STEM OPT period.

20 Can I change employers while on a STEM OPT Extension?

Yes, you may change employers while on an OPT STEM Extension. However, your new employer must provide evidence that they are enrolled in E-Verify and will complete I-983 Training Plan with the employee. Additionally, the student must also submit a new Form I-983 to USCIS with evidence of the new employer.