USA Work Permit Guide for 2024
Find detailed information on work permits in the USA, including permit types, eligibility criteria, required documents, step-by-step application processes, and processing times. Pathvisas provides tailored assistance to help both applicants and employers navigate the U.S. work permit system.
The U.S. offers multiple visa options for foreign workers based on their occupation, skills, and duration of stay. Categories include the H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations, L-1 Visa for Intra-Company Transfers, O-1 Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability, and EB Green Cards for long-term employment. Many visas require employer sponsorship and compliance with U.S. labor certification requirements.
Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
A. H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
The H-1B visa is for professionals in specialized fields, such as IT, engineering, and finance. It requires an employer sponsor and involves a limited annual quota.
Step-by-Step Process for H-1B Visa
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Obtain a Job Offer from a U.S. Employer
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The job must require specialized knowledge and a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in the field.
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Labor Condition Application (LCA)
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The employer must file an LCA with the Department of Labor to verify working conditions.
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Submit the H-1B Petition (Form I-129)
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The employer submits Form I-129 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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Attend Biometrics and Visa Interview
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If outside the U.S., applicants will need a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Processing and Decision
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H-1B processing can take 3-6 months; premium processing is available for expedited review.
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Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
B. L-1 Visa for Intra-Company Transfers
The L-1 visa is for employees of multinational companies transferring to a U.S. branch. L-1A is for managers/executives, while L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge.
Step-by-Step Process for L-1 Visa
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Obtain Transfer Offer from a U.S. Branch
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Employees must have worked at the company for at least 1 year within the last 3 years.
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File Form I-129 with USCIS
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The U.S. branch files the application on behalf of the employee.
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Complete Biometrics and Visa Interview
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If the applicant is outside the U.S., they must attend a visa interview.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing times are 1-3 months; premium processing is available.
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Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
C. O-1 Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
The O-1 visa is for individuals with exceptional talent in areas such as science, art, education, and athletics.
Step-by-Step Process for the O-1 Visa
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Secure Employment or Contract in the U.S.
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The position must be related to the applicant's field of extraordinary ability.
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Prepare Supporting Documentation
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Extensive evidence is required, including awards, publications, and proof of achievements.
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Submit Form I-129 Petition
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Filed by the employer or sponsor with USCIS, along with documentation.
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Attend Interview if Outside the U.S.
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Applicants complete an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing typically takes 2-4 months.
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Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
D. H-2B Visa for Seasonal Non-Agricultural Workers
The H-2B visa is for temporary, non-agricultural workers in industries like hospitality and construction.
Step-by-Step Process for the H-2B Visa
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Obtain Job Offer from a U.S. Employer
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The job must be temporary and meet H-2B criteria.
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Employer Files Temporary Labor Certification
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The employer submits this application to the Department of Labor.
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Submit H-2B Petition
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The employer files Form I-129 with USCIS.
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Complete Interview and Biometrics
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Applicants outside the U.S. attend an interview.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing takes 2-4 months.
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Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
E. EB-2 and EB-3 Employment-Based Green Cards
These green cards allow skilled workers and professionals to live and work permanently in the U.S.
Step-by-Step Process for EB-2/EB-3 Green Cards
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Obtain Job Offer from a U.S. Employer
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The employer must offer a permanent position that aligns with the applicant’s qualifications.
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File Labor Certification (PERM)
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The employer files with the Department of Labor to verify no qualified U.S. workers are available.
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Submit I-140 Immigrant Petition
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Filed by the employer with USCIS.
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Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
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If already in the U.S., the applicant files Form I-485 to adjust status. Otherwise, consular processing is completed.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing can take 1-3 years.
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How Pathvisas Assists Work Permit Applicants
Pathvisas provides end-to-end support for obtaining U.S. work permits, from assessing eligibility to post-approval support.
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Personalized Consultation: We help you choose the most appropriate visa based on your job and qualifications.
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Document Collection and Preparation: Pathvisas ensures all necessary documents are collected and accurately prepared.
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Application Submission and Tracking: We handle the submission and monitor the application’s progress, keeping you updated.
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Post-Approval Support: Pathvisas provides guidance on settling in the U.S. and understanding your work rights.
Pathvisas Recruitment Solutions for U.S. Employers
Pathvisas also supports U.S. employers in recruiting and sponsoring foreign talent, ensuring compliance with U.S. labor requirements.
Employer Services Include:
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Talent Acquisition: We connect employers with qualified foreign candidates for roles facing talent shortages.
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Labor Certification and Sponsorship: Pathvisas assists with labor certifications and sponsorship documentation.
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Streamlined Hiring and Onboarding: From candidate selection to visa application, Pathvisas manages the entire recruitment and immigration process for employers.
Start Your Path to the USA with Pathvisas – Reach out today for expert assistance with work permits and hiring solutions.