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 ShutdownH-2B Visa Cap Hits Limit, Extra Visas Open for Applications
USCIS announced that the 33,000 congressionally capped H-2B visas for the first half of FY 2025 have been fully allocated. These visas cover non-agricultural jobs starting between October 1, 2024,…
New Zealand Offers Two-Year Multi-Entry Visa for Seasonal Workers
New Zealand has introduced a two-year multi-entry visa for seasonal workers, announced on December 17, 2024. The reform…
Indians on H-4 Visas Face Uncertainty as They Approach Age 21 in US
Thousands of young Indians in the US fear "self-deportation" as they near 21 years old. These individuals, brought…
H-2A, H-2B, and CW-1 Visa Processing Times as of March 1, 2025
The following report presents the latest updates on the processing times for H-2A, H-2B, and CW-1 visa applications…
Balancing Dual Management Roles on an E-2 Visa: Challenges and Key Insights
Managing dual businesses under an E-2 visa requires prioritizing U.S. operations, careful financial planning, compliance with investment and…
Can E-2 Visa Holders Keep Their Status If They Become Passive Investors?
E-2 visa holders must actively manage their business to maintain status. Transitioning to a passive investor role risks…
How Investors from Non-Treaty Nations Can Access E-2 Visa Through Grenada
Investors from non-E-2 treaty countries like China or India can access U.S. E-2 visa benefits by obtaining citizenship…
Dallas Businessman in 3D Printing Denied U.S. ‘Extraordinary Ability’ Visa
A Dallas businessman in 3D printing was denied the EB-1A "Extraordinary Ability" visa, reflecting challenges for innovators in…
TN Visa to Green Card: Consular Processing vs. Adjustment of Status
Canadian professionals on TN visas can transition to a green card via consular processing or adjustment of status.…
Concurrent Filing: I-485 & I-130 with O-1 Visa Extension Pending
Filing I-485 and I-130 with a pending O-1 extension is possible, but requires maintaining lawful presence during the…