Skip to main content

Foreign Work Visa Options

If you're a non-US citizen looking to work in the United States, there are several foreign work visa options available to you. Each option has its own requirements and eligibility criteria, so it's essential to research and understand which one best suits your needs.

Types of Foreign Work Visas​

There are many types of foreign work visas that allow non-US citizens to live and work in the United States temporarily or permanently. Here are some of the most common options:

H-1B Visa​

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US employers to sponsor highly skilled foreign workers for temporary employment. This visa requires the employer to file a labor condition application (LCA) and an H-1B petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

L-1 Visa​

The L-1 visa is an intra-company transfer visa that enables foreign employees of multinational companies to work in the United States for their parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate. This visa requires proof of employment with the foreign company for at least one year.

J-1 Visa​

The J-1 visa is a cultural exchange visa that allows foreign workers to participate in training programs, internships, and research opportunities in the US. This visa requires sponsorship by an approved organization and may include a two-year home residence requirement after completion of the program.

O-1 Visa​

The O-1 visa is a temporary work visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field. This can include celebrities, athletes, scientists, or artists. The employer must sponsor the visa and provide evidence of the worker's qualifications and achievements.

EB-5 Visa​

The EB-5 visa is an investor visa that allows foreign entrepreneurs to invest at least $1 million in a US business that creates at least 10 jobs for US workers. This visa requires sponsorship by a regional center approved by USCIS.

TN Visa (under NAFTA)​

The TN visa is a professional work visa available to citizens of Canada and Mexico under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This visa allows foreign professionals in specific fields, such as engineering, law, or architecture, to work in the US for up to three years.