Work Visas
U.S. employment visa categories compared — H-1B, O-1, L-1, TN, E-2, H-2B, and R-1. Side-by-side eligibility, processing times, costs, and employer obligations for each work visa type.
Top questions about Work Visas
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat are the major changes in employment-based visa processing in 2024?
In August 2024, the Biden administration plans to expand employment-based visa processing for U.S.-educated professionals and DACA recipients, helping them secure work visas more quickly.
Read: White House Employment Immigration Plans For Rest of the Year 2024How does the H-1B process work for employers and employees in 2025?
The H-1B process remains employer-driven, with the employer filing the petition and the employee maintaining status by staying employed in the approved job under the approved terms.
Read: US Immigration FAQ Update: H-1B, F-1, NRIs Amid 2025 ChangesWhat are some changes to the H-1B visa process as of January 17, 2025?
As of January 17, 2025, employers must use the new edition of Form I-129 and follow enhanced oversight rules for the H-1B visa program.
Read: Senator JD Vance Faces Criticism Over Meeting With Indian-American Investor Amid H-1B DebateWhat steps should applicants take to prepare for potential H-1B visa policy changes?
Applicants should start early by keeping an eye on policy updates, gather documents that meet the latest requirements, and work closely with their employers who will need to be proactive as well.
Read: The Impact of U.S. Immigration Policy Changes on the H-1B VisaWhat practical impacts should H-1B visa applicants expect after the 2025 government shutdown?
Applicants may face longer wait times, rescheduling, and reduced appointment availability, which can affect travel plans and project timelines for those who need to be stamped in person.
Read: Expected H-1B Stamping Delays at U.S. Consulates After 2025 Shutdown
Biden Ex-Aide Warns L-1 Visa Abuse Risks as H-1B Fees Soar
Bhutoria warns the $100,000 H-1B fee and a September 19, 2025 proclamation will push employers toward L-1 transfers and other workarounds, risking increased visa abuse and exploitation of vulnerable workers…
Google Layoffs Put O-1 Visa Holder at Risk—60 Days Left
A Google Cloud O-1 researcher impacted by layoffs has 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave.…
What to Expect for E-2 Visa Renewal Appointments During a Shutdown
E-2 renewals usually proceed early in a shutdown due to fee funding, but prolonged stoppages can reduce services…
Can H-4 Dependents File for Initial EAD During a Government Shutdown?
H-4 dependents can file initial H-4 EAD (Form I-765) during a government shutdown because USCIS is fee-funded and…
O-1A/O-1B Petitions and Premium Processing During a Shutdown
USCIS remains operational during the October 2025 shutdown and continues accepting O-1A/B petitions. Premium processing is active at…
L-1 Blanket Approvals and Consular Appointments During a Shutdown
USCIS will likely keep processing L-1 Blanket Petitions during a shutdown because it’s fee-funded, but expect slower timelines.…
Can I Work If My H-4 EAD Expires During a Shutdown?
If an H-4 EAD expires during a shutdown, you can only keep working under a 180-day automatic extension…
E-2 Spouses: No EAD During Shutdown; I-94 E-2S Authorization
If an E-2 spouse’s I-94 shows “E-2S,” they are authorized to work incident to status and generally do…
Filing H-4 Status Change During a Shutdown: Will USCIS Accept
USCIS will accept and process H-4 change-of-status filings during a government shutdown because it is fee-funded. File I-539…
Can We File L-1 Blanket Renewal During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS will process L-1 Blanket renewals during the October 1, 2025 shutdown because it’s fee-funded. DOL immigration services…