Visa Temporary Workers (H/L Visas)

Anyone going to the United States with the intention of working there temporarily must obtain a nonimmigrant work visa. Persons entering the United States on a visitor or business visa or under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are not permitted to work. Unlike some countries, the United States government does not issue work visas for casual employment. In general, work visas are based on a specific offer of employment. Filing the I-129 Petition USCIS Form I-129 consists of a basic petition and different supplements that apply to the various visa categories. In order to petition for a temporary worker, the prospective employer or agent must file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, and the appropriate supplement with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) accompanied by the required payment, and initial evidence or documentation. In some cases, the employer must get a certificate from the Department of Labor prior to filing the I-129. This process is described below in the appropriate categories. Once the petition is approved, the employer or agent is sent a Notice of Approval, Form I-797. Approval of a petition does not guarantee visa issuance to an applicant. Applicants must also establish that they are admissible to the U.S. under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).