Foreign individuals around the world wish to come to the United States for a variety of reasons. One of the most common is for the opportunity of employment within the country. To enter the United States legally, a foreign individual must have a document that permits them access. One document that allows them to do this is a visa. A visa states a person’s reasoning for coming to the country. There are various types of visas that allow a foreigner to enter the United States for employment.
Temporary Work Visas
A temporary work visa allows an individual to take a job within the United States for a limited time. There are several types of temporary work visas depending on the individual’s job. This may include:
- E-1 visa for an employee of a treaty trader
- E-2 visa for investors of enterprises
- H-1B visa for specialty workers and fashion models
- H-1C visa for registered nurses
- H-2A visa for agricultural workers
- H-2B visa for non-agricultural workers
- H-3 visa for trainees and special education visitors
- I-1 visa for foreign media
- O visa for individuals with extraordinary achievements in a certain field
- P-1 visa for athletes and entertainers
- P-2 visa for artists in exchange programs
- P-3 visa for artists with the purpose of teaching or performing
- Q-1 visa for those participating in cultural exchange programs
H-1B Visas
An H-1B visa is a common employment visa in the United States. It allows employers in the country to hire foreigners in “specialty occupations” for a limited time. These are certain professions that require specific knowledge. This may include jobs in sciences, law, mathematics, engineering, and more. The visa is issued for three years but can be extended for another three years.
L-1 Visas
An L-1 visa is used by foreigners who want temporary employment. Its purpose is to fill a supervisor or managing position. The visa is also used for those who have knowledge in specialized fields. There are two types of L-1 visas:
- L-1A: For supervising and managing positions. This visa holder may work in the country for up to 7 years.
- L-1B: For those with important knowledge in specific professions. This visa holder may work in the country for up to 5 years.
PERM Visas
When an individual’s visa time is up, they may apply to extend it. However, visas may only be extended so many times. A PERM visa is for individuals who are looking to obtain a permanent residence in the country. It allows them to stay within the country while they are applying to become a United States citizen. Because the process is very long, if this extension expires, the individual may have to return to their home country for a period of time until the naturalization process is completed.
Contact Our Firm
If you or someone you know is looking to apply for a visa to enter the United States, contact Detzky, Hunter & DeFillippo, LLC. today.
Detzky, Hunter & DeFillippo, LLC is an experienced law firm that has proudly served clients across New Jersey for decades from their convenient locations in Freehold and Somerville. If you need strong legal guidance, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are lawyers who listen, counselors who care.
