How to obtain a work visa for overseas workers in the US?

With the rapid development of the global economy, the US, as the world’s top job market, has attracted a large number of migrant workers from all over the world. Obtaining a US work visa is the first threshold for smooth employment. Next, we will introduce the entire process from application to employment in detail to help those who are preparing to work overseas in the US smoothly obtain a work visa and start a new life.

Types of US work visas

Before preparing to work in the US, it is crucial to understand the various types of work visas. The US offers a variety of work visas that are suitable for different occupations and job requirements, and each visa has different requirements and application processes. The following are several common types of visas:

• H-1B Visa : This is one of the most common work visas in the US, mainly used to attract high-skilled workers, especially professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, science, and healthcare. Applying for an H-1B visa requires sponsorship from a US employer, who needs to prove that the position is in demand in the US labor market and cannot find suitable local employees to fill the job vacancy. The H-1B visa application process is highly competitive, with limited annual quotas, and quotas are allocated through a lottery system.
• L-1 Visa : Applicable to employee transfers in multinational companies. The L-1 visa allows companies to send their employees abroad to work in the US. This visa is particularly suitable for those who work in multinational companies and usually requires employees to work overseas for at least one year. There are two types of L-1 visas: L-1A (for managers) and L-1B (for professionals).
• O-1 Visa : This type of visa is designed for “individuals with special talents” and is suitable for individuals who have shown outstanding achievements in fields such as art, science, business, education, or sports. O-1 visa applicants need to provide materials proving their international reputation and usually need to obtain support from experts in the industry.
• E-2 Visa : Mainly for investors and citizens of countries that have signed trade agreements with the US. This visa is suitable for individuals who wish to establish business in the US through investment, especially for entrepreneurs or high net worth individuals.

How to obtain job opportunities and employer sponsorship

Before successfully applying for a US work visa, the most important step is to obtain a job invitation and sponsorship from a US employer. Here are several common ways to find US job opportunities:

• Recruitment websites and social platforms : Well-known global recruitment websites such as LinkedIn and Indeed are one of the main ways to find US job opportunities. Job seekers can directly contact potential employers by creating detailed career profiles and applying keyword searches. In addition, using these platforms for networking can also help you find relevant positions.
• Headhunters and recruitment agencies : Professionals in some fields can obtain job opportunities through headhunters or recruitment agencies, especially in technical, financial, and management positions. Multinational companies hire employees globally and often seek suitable candidates through these professional organizations.
• Internal transfer within multinational companies : For those who are already working in multinational companies, the L-1 visa is a very suitable choice. This visa allows companies to transfer employees from overseas branches to work in the US, providing a stable path. In addition, transfers within multinational companies can also reduce the time and difficulty of applying for work visas.
• International Job Fairs and Networking Events : Job seekers can also look for opportunities to directly engage with US employers by attending international job fairs, industry seminars, and other events. These events provide opportunities to meet with employers face-to-face and showcase job seekers’ professional skills.

Work visa application

After obtaining a job invitation, the formal visa application includes the following key steps:

Visa application process

• Employer submits LCA : The employer submits a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the US Department of Labor to ensure that the position meets local wage standards and proves that a suitable US local employee cannot be found. After LCA approval, the employer submits Form I-129 to apply for a work visa for the employee.
• Submit Form I-129 : Employers need to provide detailed information such as job contract and job description. For H-1B visas, applicants also need to obtain quotas through a lottery mechanism.
• Cost and Time : Visa application fees vary depending on the type of visa, H-1B visas usually cost more than $1,000. Regular processing takes several months, buzz processing results within 15 days.
• Cross-border remittance : Migrant workers can complete visa application related remittance through BiyaPay . It provides a variety of flexible options with digital currency as the medium, integrated Localization transfer method, low handling fee, unlimited amount, and can be quickly transferred to the US to ensure that the process is not delayed.

Interview and Approval

• Migrant workers need to prepare necessary documents (such as passports, job invitations, LCA approval letters). The interviewer will ask about job responsibilities, salary, and other information to ensure that the position matches the visa category.
• After the interview, the waiting time for approval varies from a few weeks to several months. H-1B visas may take longer. Buzz processing can speed up the approval process.

Steps after visa approval

• After approval, migrant workers need to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) and coordinate employment procedures with their employers.

Obtaining a US work visa is a complex process. Overseas workers need to plan carefully, apply for visas reasonably, prepare for interviews, and submit renewals in a timely manner to ensure a smooth stay in the US for work and life.