Below is a quick summary of the main types of US work visas which are made available to people from all over the world who want to live and work in America, either on a short term temporary basis, or a long term permanent basis.
Note: for more information about any of the work visas listed below - click on visa name/title, or click on the links in the box on the right side
H1B VISA PROGRAM The primary US Work Visa for professionals & students from all over the world or in the USA, who work in specialty occupations. Valid up to 6 years, employer transferable, dual intent visa (can apply for Green Card).
Qualification/Requirements:
typically a bachelor's degree or higher degree (or foreign equivalent) is needed, OR,
at least 12 years work experience in a speciality occupation, OR,
a mix of further education (e.g. Diploma) and work experience to total 12 years.
* For more detailed information on qualifying - click here
Specialty Occupations that qualify include:
IT, Computing, Finance, Accounting, Banking, Marketing, Advertising, PR, Sales, Recruiting, Engineering (all types), Teaching, HealthCare/Medical, Legal, Lawyers, Networking, Telecoms, Business, Management.
* For a complete list of H1B occupations - click here
H2B VISA PROGRAM
A temporary visa for short term Seasonal work such as in the hospitality and tourist industries.
Qualification/Requirements: You do Not need to have a degree. You must 1st find an H2B job and have an offer from a US employer to perform a temporary or seasonal job, and meet the requirements of the job set by the employer.
Type of Jobs / Work includes:
Hospitality, Hotels / Motels, Resorts, Ticket Sales, Cruise ships, Construction workers, Maintenance, Janitorial, Ski Resorts, Landscaping, Golf Courses, Water parks, Security, Ride Operators, Restaurants and bars, Warehouse, Retail Stores
E3 VISA PROGRAM similar to the H1B but is available to Australian Citizens only
TN1 VISA PROGRAM similar to the H1B but is available to Canadian & Mexican Citizens only
GREEN CARD permanent residency visa unlimited duration, can lead to US Citizenzenship
L1 VISA PROGRAM for senior employees who work for Company outside the USA and want to transfer to same Companies offices in the USA
J1 TRAINING / WORK VISA PROGRAM short term training/learning visa to further your skills in the USA and then return to your home Country to apply them