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-1B to O-1 Visa Status Change Process
Yes, an H-1B visa holder can change their status to a different non-immigrant category, like an O-1 visa, without leaving the U.S. They must file Form I-129 with the U.S.…
Lawsuits Expose TN Visa Labor Abuses
Migrant workers on TN visas, designed for Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA, face severe labor abuses like…
UK Nationals Now Eligible for E-2 Investor Visa
UK nationals can now apply for the E-2 Investor Visa, allowing them to live and work in the…
9-11 Response: Biometric Entry-Exit Fee for H-1B and L-1 Visas
Biometric entry-exit fees are proposed for H-1B and L-1 visas as part of the 9-11 response, aiming to…
400,000 Brazilians with Dual Citizenship Eligible for US E-2 Investor Visa
Over 400,000 Brazilians with Portuguese Citizenship can now move to the US through the E-2 Investor Visa program,…
Senator Collins Advocates for More H-2B Visas in Maine’s Hospitality Sector
Senator Collins advocates for more H-2B visas in Maine's hospitality sector to combat job shortages, supporting tourism initiatives…
UK Extends Seasonal Worker Visa Until 2029
The UK extends the Seasonal Worker Visa Route until 2029, offering a Worker Visa Extension for seasonal workers.…
H-2B Visa Cap Met for Early FY 2024 Returning Workers
Cap reached for additional returning worker H-2B visas in FY 2024. USCIS hits cap for 19,000 visas in…
H4 EAD Status After H1B Employer Transfer
When an H1B holder transfers to a new employer, the spouse's H4 EAD status remains valid until the…
H4 EAD Validity After H1B Transfer: What to Know
The validity of H4 EAD after an H1B transfer impacts work authorization. Find out how this change may…