US Work Visas

There are different types of work visas available for those who wish to live and work in the US. The most popular options are the H1B and H2B.

H1B Work Visa

The H-1B Visa is intended for professionals in "Specialty Occupations" which include the likes of scientists, doctors, and computer analysts.

Applicants need a sponsoring company in the US and generally will have at least a bachelor’s degree although, in some circumstances, relevant experience is accepted in lieu.

A maximum of 65,000 H-1B Visas are issued each year. They are generally valid for up to three years but may be extended to a maximum of six years. The H1B allows the applicant's spouse (husband or wife) as well as their children to accompany the successful applicant to America.

An important benefit of the H1B work permit is that it potentially gives the applicant the time to apply for a Green Card which will upgrade the non-immigrant work visa to permanent legal residency.

Find more details on the H1B Application Process.

H2B Work Visa

The H2B visa is intended for skilled and unskilled workers coming to the US to undertake mainly non-agricultural work of a temporary or seasonal nature. Examples of jobs that may require H2B visa holders include chefs, resort and theme park staff, janitors or security guards. 

About 66,000 of the H2B visas are awarded each year and those working in jobs of a temporary nature. Applicants need to have a job qualified sponsoring company and be able to demonstrate the intention to return to his home country at the end of the visa time limit.

The H2B is generally issued for one year but at the request of the employer this can be extended for up to three years in some cases.

Find more details on the H2B Application Process.

Other US Work Visas

Aside from the most popular H1B and H2B work visas there are other visa types that prospective employees can apply to including the L1 for Managers/Executives or Specialized Knowledge Staff and the EB Visa series which covers those who are being sponsored for jobs requiring advanced degrees and/or exceptional abilities.

For the full list of options, please check out other Visas.