A temporary work visa gives a non-United States citizen temporary permission to work legally in the U.S. The work visa is given by the Department of Homeland Security, who will decide if you can live and work in the country. Gaining a temporary work visa requires sponsorship from the applicant’s employer.
One of the great benefits of applying for non-immigrant visas is its application speed. When compared to becoming a permanent resident of the U.S., gaining non-immigrant status and being able to work is much faster. Additionally, many people who are not eligible for permanent resident status may be eligible for a temporary work visa.
Additionally, companies who need more labor often prefer temporary work visas. The resources to invest in a permanent workforce in the U.S. cost much more than gaining applicants for temporary visas. It can be very helpful for companies to use temporary labor as opposed to long term employees.
When talking about temporary work visas, it is important to note the distinction between a non-immigrant visa and an immigrant. A temporary work visa is a non-immigrant visa, as it applies to someone who knows they will be here temporarily. Regardless of their country of origin, they are meant to be here for a defined time. An immigrant visa applies to someone who will be here permanently.
Therefore, if a person with a temporary work visa wants to stay past their departure date, they must go through the process of extending or changing their nonimmigrant status or applying for an immigrant visa or permanent resident status. Otherwise, when their departure date arrives, they must leave the country.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, more than 600,000 temporary worker visas were issued to those who applied. While this number may sound high, the United States has a very selective process by which to select the right people.
There are several types of work visas people can apply for temporary work. Some of these visas can lead to citizenship down the road. Other visas can let people in only for a season. Whatever the reason, these permits are designed to help people work towards a better life.
The H1-B is a special work visa for those who may work in a field that needs expertise. These fields may include medicine, science, architecture, engineering, teaching, and more. The H1-B is granted with a time limit of three years, but can be extended to no more than six years. Also, anyone who holds an H1-B can apply for and get a U.S. Green Card by applying for permanent residency. H1-B holders are also allowed to bring their family.
Requirements for H1-B
The H2-A is a visa that lets employers bring in workers from outside the United States to fill agricultural jobs. While many H2-A holders are only for a very short amount of time, some H2-A visas can be extended to as long as three years. Additionally, those who hold H2-A visas are allowed to bring their family in as well.
Requirements for H2-A
The H2-B visa allows applicants into the United States for seasonal non-agricultural jobs. Most who have an H2-B visa are only qualified to stay for up to a year. However, extensions can allow the H2-B holder to remain for up to three years. Also, H-2B holders can bring their families, but the family members cannot work in the United States while here.
Requirements for H2-B
There are many other forms of temporary work visas along with the three above. It can be tricky to know which one you qualify for or if there even is an option for you. When you feel powerless, let Salmón-Haas help you.
We will help you apply for a temporary work visa. Having an immigration attorney on your side can help you and your case work more smoothly and let your application be effortless. You do not have to do this alone.
Salmón-Haas are ready to help. If you are ready, contact our team now and we will start your application as quickly as possible.
