Non-Immigrant Visas

F1 Visa Details

An F1 visa may be obtained for a student who wishes to pursue full-time academic studies in a college, university, seminar, conservatory, private academic high school, other academic institution, or language-training program. Tourists on a B2 visa may have difficulty changing their status to F1 in the US unless their visa has a “prospective student stamp.” A J1 visa holder who is subject to §212(E) may change their status from J1 to F1 but must apply from their home country or through a third country. An F2 visa may be obtained by an F1 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. An F2 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the F1 holder remains in legal status. An F2 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

A F1 student may work 20 hours per week on campus. F1 students who suffer from economic hardship may secure off campus employment. An F2 visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa. An F2 visa holder may engage in full or part time study. An F2 visa holder can change their status to F1 if they are engaged in full time study.

General Requirements

In order to qualify for F-1 or M-1 status, the alien must first apply to, and be accepted by, an academic institution in the United States authorized to enroll foreign students. The student must establish that he or she has the financial ability to pay for all costs associated with the education sought as well as meet the school’s academic requirements and show that he or she is sufficiently fluent in English.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

• Current Passports as well as Old Passports
• Confirmation Page of On-line Submitted Form DS-160 with Barcode.
• Visa Fees (paid in advance before taking the appointment)
• Original Interview Appointment Letter
• Form-20 obtained from US colleges and schools.
• Original Proof of Payment of SEVIS fee for the students and their spouses or dependents
• Evidence of Financial Resources (sufficient funds to pay for the entire first year of education and living expenses), including bank statements, accountant statements, employment letter, scholarship certificates, Affidavit of Support, etc.
• Diploma from past education.

FAQ: How to acquire work authorization under F1 visa status?

F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. There are various programs available for F-1 students to seek off-campus employment, after the first academic year. F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment, after they have been studying for one academic year. These three types of employment are:

1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
2. Optional Practical Training (OPT) (pre-completion or post-completion)
3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

Besides, F-1 Student can apply for work permit under “economic hardship” waiver.

F2 Visa Details

The spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of an F-1 student are eligible for F-2 status, and may stay in the US as long as the primary student remains in legal F1 status.

Employment 

A F2 visa holder may not work on-campus or off-campus. 

Study

The spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of an F-1 student are eligible for F-2 status, and may stay in the US as long as the primary student remains in legal F1 status.

H1B Visa Details

An H1B visa is for workers who will perform in a specialty occupation. A specialty occupation requires theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge along with at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. For example, architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology, and the arts are specialty occupations.

If the applicant has a college degree or work experience and the job requires a college degree, then the applicant should be able to obtain an H1B visa.

General requirements

An H1B classification may be granted to an alien who:

1. Will perform services in a specialty occupation which requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and attainment of a baccalaureate or higher degree or its equivalent as a minimum requirement for entry into the occupation in the United States, and who is qualified to perform services in the specialty occupation because he or she has attained a baccalaureate or higher degree or its equivalent in the specialty occupation;
2. Based on reciprocity, will perform services of an exceptional nature requiring exceptional merit and ability relating to a DOD cooperative research and development project or a coproduction project provided for under a Government-to-Government agreement administered by the Secretary of Defense;
3. Will perform services in the field of fashion modeling and who is of distinguished merit and ability.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Current Passport as well as Old Passport;
2. Original Form of I-129 and one copy;
3. Petition Letter from your Employer stating their intention to hire you and describing the proposed duty;
4. Original Degree Certificates and Foreign Degree Evaluation;
5. Diploma and Graduation Certificates;
6. Pay stub from your last employment or your current one, plus the recent tax return;
7. Resume or CV;
8. Labor Condition Application;
9. Petitioner’s Income Tax Return for the last two tax years and Financial Statement;
10. Name and Contact information of two co-workers in the same position;

FAQ: 1. What documents should I carry while coming back to the US, if I am travelling outside of the U.S.?

While entering back to the US, you should be able to prove that you have been maintaining H1B status before leaving the US and you are going to maintain H1B status after entering into the US. Please carry the following documents: 1) H1B approval notice from your current employer 2) Employment letter that mentions your vacation approval from your current employer 3) Recent pay stubs 4) Copy of last year income returns 4) contact details of your current employer.

FAQ: 2. How can I use the remaining years from a previously approved H1B?

Individuals who spent one year outside of the US and did not exhaust the entire six year term can CHOOSE to be re-admitted for the readmitted for the remainder of initial six-year period without being subject to the H1B cap. The reminder period of the initial six-year admission period refers to the full six-year period of admission minus the period of time that the alien previously spent in the US in valid H1B status.

H4 Visa Details

An H4 visa may be obtained by an H1B, H1C, H2A, H2B or H3 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. An H4 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the H visa holder remains in legal status. An H4 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

An H4 visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa.

Study

H4 visa holders may engage in full or part time study.

For whom is an H4 Visa appropriate?

Spouse and children of H visa holders who wish to visit or accompany the H visa holder to the United States.

What are the requirements for obtaining an H4 Visa?

The spouse and unmarried minor children of the beneficiary are entitled to H nonimmigrant classification, subject to the same period of admission and limitations as the beneficiary, if they are accompanying or following to join the beneficiary in the United States.

J1 Visa Details

The J1 visa is designated for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the US Department of State and the Exchange Visitor Program and Designation Staff. The J1 exchange visitor program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences.

Some J1 visa holders are subject to INA §212(E) and will need to obtain a J1 Waiver before they can change their status to H1B, L1 or to adjust their status to permanent resident.

Spouses and children of J1 visa holders may enter and remain in the US in J2 status. J2 spouses may apply for a work permit. J2 spouses and children may attend school in the US.

General Requirements

A nonimmigrant exchange visitor and his or her accompanying spouse and minor children may be admitted into the United States in J1 and J2 classifications, if the exchange visitor and his or her accompanying spouse and children each presents a SEVIS Form DS-2019 issued in his or her own name by a program approved by the Department of State for participation by J-1 exchange visitors. Prior to August 1, 2003, if exigent circumstances are demonstrated, the Service will allow the dependent of an exchange visitor possessing a SEVIS Form DS-2019 to enter the United States using a copy of the exchange visitor’s SEVIS Form DS-2019. However, where the exchange visitor presents a properly completed Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J1) Status, which was issued to the J1 exchange visitor by a program approved by the Department of State for participation by exchange visitors and which remains valid for the admission of the exchange visitor, the accompanying spouse and children may be admitted on the basis of the J1’s non-SEVIS Form DS-2019.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Current Passport as well as Old Passport;
2. Petition Letter from your Employer stating their intention to hire you and your proposed duties;
3. Form of DS Form 2019;
4. Evidence of Financial Resources;
5. J1/J2 Health Insurance;
6. Diploma or Degree Certificates and Foreign Degree Evaluation;

FAQ:  Do I really need a sponsor for J1 Visa? Who qualifies as J1 Visa sponsor?

Everyone who would like to come to the US on J1 visa need sponsor. The US Department of State designates US government, academic and private sector entities to conduct educational and cultural exchange programs. Program sponsors are responsible for screening and selecting eligible foreign nationals for participation in their designated exchange visitor program, as well as supporting and monitoring exchange visitors during their stay in the US. The list of designated sponsors provided by the US Department of State lists the official locations of the sponsors. However, many of them can place participants anywhere in the US no matter where they are located.

What is J1 Waiver?

A J1 visa holder who is subject to INA §212(E) must either return to his or her home country upon expiration of the J1 visa or obtain a J1 waiver before he or she may change his or her status to H1B, L1 or adjust their status to permanent resident (green card). If the J1 visa holder cannot qualify for a waiver, he or she may obtain an F1 or O1 visa via third country processing without returning to his or her home country.

Exchange visitors who are subject to, but do not wish to comply with, the two-year home country residence requirement, may apply for a J1 waiver of that requirement under any one of the five applicable grounds provided by the United States immigration law:

1. No Objection Statement

J1 visa holders may obtain a waiver of the two-year foreign residence requirement by obtaining a letter from their home government stating that there is no objection to the J1 visa holder remaining in the US without returning home for two years.

This option is available to all J1 visa holders subject to §212(e) except for medical doctors who came to the US for graduate medical training

The government processing time is roughly six to eight weeks.

2. Interested Government Agency (IGA)

J1 visa holders who wish to obtain a waiver through this method do not need to actually work for the government agency who will sponsor the waiver. To qualify for an IGA waiver, the J1 visa holder must have an important role in a research project where the J1 visa holder’s §212(e) requirement to return home for two years would negatively impact that project. Government Agencies who have an interest in seeing that you complete your research, may sponsor your waiver petition.

IGA waivers may also be obtained by medical doctors who will agree to work in VA Hospitals or other medical facilities located in designated underserved areas in urban or rural settings.

The government processing time is roughly four to eight weeks.

3. Persecution

J1 visa holders who believe that he or she will be persecuted upon return to their home country due to race, religion, or political opinion may obtain a waiver of the two-year foreign residence requirement.

The government processing time is roughly three to four months.

4. Hardship to J1 visa holder’s US Citizen spouse or child

J1 visa holders who can demonstrate that his or her departure from the United States would cause extreme hardship to his or her United States citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or child, may obtain a waiver of the two-year foreign residence requirement.

The government processing time is roughly three to four months.

5. Request by a designated State Department of Health

Medical doctors who have an offer of full-time employment at a health care facility in a designated health care professional shortage area, and who agree to begin employment at the facility within 90 days of receiving such waiver, and who sign a contract to continue to work at the health care facility for a total of 40 hours per week and not less than three years, may apply for this type of waiver. Only medical doctors may apply for this type of waiver.

The government processing time is roughly four to six weeks.

J2 Visa Details

A J2 visa may be obtained by a J1 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. A J2 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the J1 visa holder remains in legal status. A J2 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

A J2 visa holder may apply for a work permit.

Study

A J2 visa holder may engage in full or part time study.

General Requirements

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal exchange visitor J1 visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay require exchange visitor visas (derivative J visas). The application procedure is the same as that for a primary visa applicant. The sponsor must approve the accompaniment of the spouse and/or children and who will each be issued their own Form DS-2019.

K1 Visa Details

The K1 visa permits the K1 visa holder to enter the US for a 90-day period to marry the petitioner and apply for permanent residence (green card) and obtain a work permit. Once the visa is issued, the K1 visa holder has six months to enter the US for the purpose of marriage.

The K1 visa process is rather long and arduous. However, we will be happy to see you and your fiancé(e) through the process and make sure that things go as smoothly as possible. Mishandling of the K1 fiancé(e) visa application may result in lost time, visa denials or arrest and deportation of the fiancé(e) where the USCIS suspects fraud. If you are already married, then you may want to apply for a K3 visa.

Children of the K1 visa applicant may obtain a K2 visa to enter the US together.

General Requirements

US citizens who will be getting married to a foreign national in the United States may petition for a fiancé(e) classification (K1) for their fiancé(e). You and your fiancé(e) must be free to marry. This means that both of you are unmarried, or that any previous marriages have ended through divorce, annulment or death. You must also have met with your fiancé(e) in person within the last two years before filing for the fiancé(e) visa. This requirement can be waived only if meeting your fiancé(e) in person would violate long-established customs, or if meeting your fiancé(e) would create extreme hardship for you. You and your fiancé(e) must marry within 90 days of your fiancé(e) entering the United States.

You may also apply to bring your fiancé(e)’s unmarried children, who are under age 21, to the United States.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Final Divorce Decree / Annulment / Death certificate copy (if previously married)
2. Letter of Intent to Marry the Petitioner within 90 days of arrival in the U.S. (Signed and dated)
3. Copies of Birth Certificate, Foreign Passport Bio and Stamps, CENOMAR (Proof of Singleness in the Philippines) for the Beneficiary
4. Photos Together (Make sure you label them with dates and locations)
5. Airline Tickets and Boarding Passes
6. Foreign Travel Receipts (Hotels, etc.; Highlight dates and places)
7. Correspondences (Proof of on-going relationship): Snail-mail, Emails, Facebook Screenshots, Skype
8. Engagement Ring receipt (if any)
9. Proof of Citizenship: Copy of Birth Certificate (Front and Back) or Copy of Certificate of Naturalization;
10. Proof of Citizenship: Copy of unexpired U.S. Passport (All pages; Valid for at least 5 years)
11. Short Statement of when and how you met your Alien Fiancé(e) in person. Mark it as Supplement 34.A (See Question 34.A on Form I-129F; Signed and dated)
12. Final Divorce Decree / Annulment / Death certificate copy (if previously married)
13. Letter of Intent to Marry the Beneficiary within his/her 90 days of arrival (Signed and dated)
14. For other required documents (if applicable) regarding Legal Name Change, court and police records, and other documents in accordance with IMBRA, please read the USCIS I-129F Instructions.

K2 Visa Details

A K2 visa may be obtained by an K1 visa holder’s minor children. A K2 visa holder may enter the US with the K1 visa holder or enter at a later time.

General Requirements

A child of the K1 visa holder may be accorded the same nonimmigrant classification as the beneficiary if accompanying or following to join him or her.

L1 Visa Details

An L1 visa is for executives or employees with specialized skills of multinational companies who are being transferred from an office overseas to a US office. The visa may also be used by a manager or executive to open a new office in the US. The L1 visa is initially valid for three years and can be extended to a total stay of five years. There is no prevailing wage requirement for the L1 visa.

Although the L1 visa was deigned for large multinational corporations, it may also be used by smaller companies.

A petitioner which meets the following requirements may file a blanket petition seeking continuing approval of itself and some or all of its parent, branches, subsidiaries, and affiliates as qualifying organizations if:

1. The petitioner and each of those entities are engaged in commercial trade or services;
2. The petitioner has an office in the United States that has been doing business for one year or more;
3. The petitioner has three or more domestic and foreign branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates; and
4. The petitioner and the other qualifying organizations have obtained approval of petitions for at least ten “L” managers, executives, or specialized knowledge professionals during the previous 12 months; or have US. subsidiaries or affiliates with combined annual sales of at least $25 million; or have a United States work force of at least 1,000 employees.

Spouses and children of the L1 visa holder may obtain an L2 visa to enter and remain in the US. L2 Spouses may apply for a work permit. L2 spouses and children may attend school in the US.

General Requirements

An alien who within the preceding three years has been employed abroad for one continuous year by a qualifying organization may be admitted temporarily to the United States to be employed by a parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of that employer in a managerial or executive capacity, or in a position requiring specialized knowledge.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Profit-and-loss statement, tax returns, bylaws, and minutes of board meetings for the Foreign Corporation
2. Stock certificates, Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, minutes of board meetings for the US employer.
3. Financial reports and tax returns for the US employer
4. A copy of the beneficiary’s current passport
5. The beneficiary’s resume or curriculum vitae
6. A copy of the beneficiary’s degrees or certificates
7. Organizational Charts for the US employer
8. Copies of pay stubs of the beneficiary
9. Business Plan for the US employer
10. Proof of Physical premises, if new office.
11. Bank Statement or Financial Statement, if new office
12. Letter of Appointment
13. Certificate of Employment showing the beneficiary has been employed by the foreign corporation for one year within the last 3 years
14. Proof of “regular, systematic an continuous provision of goods/service” for the US employer
15. Promotional materials for the US employer or the Foreign Corporation

L2 Visa Details

An L2 visa may be obtained by an L1 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. An L2 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the L-1 visa holder remains in legal status. An L2 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

An L2 visa holder may apply for a work permit.

Study

An L2 visa holder may engage in full or part time study.

General Requirements

The spouse and unmarried minor children of the beneficiary are entitled to L nonimmigrant classification, subject to the same period of admission and limits as the beneficiary, if the spouse and unmarried minor children are accompanying or following to join the beneficiary in the United States. Neither the spouse nor any child may accept employment unless he or she has been granted employment authorization.

O1 Visa Details

An O1 visa is designated for aliens of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics. The O1 visa is very helpful for artists, athletes, entertainers, high-end chefs, and business people lacking professional degrees. There is no prevailing wage requirement, the O1 visa may be extended indefinitely and there is no numerical limit to the number of O1 visas issued.

General Requirements

Scientists, educators, business persons and athletes who wish to qualify for the visa must show three of the following:

• Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes/awards for excellence in the field;
• Membership in associations in the field that require outstanding achievement of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts;
• Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about the alien;
• Participation on a panel or as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field of specialization;
• Original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance;
• Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or other major media;
• Current or previous employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation; or,
• Past or proffered high salary or other remuneration for services, evidenced by contracts or other reliable evidence.

Artists and Entertainers (except TV or movie stars) who wish to qualify for the visa must show three of the following:

• as performed/will perform services as a lead/starring participant in productions/events with distinguished reputations as shown by critical reviews, ads, publicity releases, publications, contracts, or endorsements;
• National/international recognition for achievement through critical reviews, other published materials by or about the beneficiary in major papers, trade journals/magazines, etc.;
• Has performed in a lead, starring or critical role for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation evidenced by media articles, testimonials, etc.;
• Has record of major commercial or critically acclaimed success;
• Has achieved significant recognition from organizations, critics, government agencies, recognized experts;
• Has commanded or will command a high salary/other remuneration in relation to others in the field.

Artists and Entertainers in connection with TV or Movies who wish to qualify for the visa must show a very high level of accomplishment in the motion picture or television industry evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition significantly above that ordinarily encountered to the extent that the person is recognized as outstanding, notable, or leading in the motion picture or television field.

Spouses and children of the O1 visa holder may obtain an O-3 visa to enter and remain in the US. The O3 visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

For whom is an O1 Visa appropriate?

Foreign nationals who have received major prizes or awards or other recognition for outstanding achievements in the field of arts, sciences, education, business or athletics and with a job offer from a US. company

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Letterhead, business plan, promotional material about the sponsor individual or company
2. Financial statements, bank account statement, or other financial documentation about the sponsor individual or company
3. A copy of contract between the beneficiary, the employer and the agent (if the agent is the sponsor)
4. Beneficiary’s past visa status
5. Copies of prizes and awards received by the beneficiary in the field
6. Independent, objective information about the award or prize (reference letters from the organizations)
7. Letter to prove the membership of associations
8. Independent, objective documentation about the above membership (reference letters to emphasize the above information)
9. Publications or media to show about the beneficiary’s work in the field.
10. Reference letters from experts, individuals, and organizations with distinguished reputations
11. Copies of employment contracts
12. Salary surveys, paystubs, and tax returns
13. Beneficiary’s Resume
14. A copy of the Beneficiary ‘s Degrees or Certificates if relevant

O2 Visa Details

The O2 visa is designated for persons that accompany and assist an O1 visa holder in a specific athletic or artistic event or in the motion picture or television industry. O2 visas are not available for those who accompany or assist O1 visa holders in education, science, or business.

Spouses and children of the O2 visa holder may obtain an O3 visa to enter and remain in the US. The O3 visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

General Requirements

An O-2 classification applies to an accompanying alien who is coming temporarily to the United States solely to assist in the artistic or athletic performance by an O-1. The O-2 alien must:

1. Be an integral part of the actual performances or events and possess critical skills and experience with the O1 alien that are not of a general nature and which are not possessed by others; or
2. In the case of a motion picture or television production, have skills and experience with the O1 alien which are not of a general nature and which are critical, either based on a preexisting and long standing working relationship or, if in connection with a specific production only, because significant production (including pre- and post-production) will take place both inside and outside the United States and the continuing participation of the alien is essential to the successful completion of the production.

O3 Visa Details

An O3 visa may be obtained by an O1 or O2 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. An O3 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the O1 or O2 visa holder remains in legal status. An O3 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

An O3 visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa.

Study

An O3 visa holder may engage in full or part time study.

General Requirements

The spouse and unmarried minor children of the O1 or O2 alien beneficiary are entitled to O3 nonimmigrant classification, subject to the same period of admission and limitations as the alien beneficiary, if they are accompanying or following to join the alien beneficiary in the United States. Neither the spouse nor a child of the alien beneficiary may accept employment unless he or she has been granted employment authorization.

P1 Visa Details

The P1 visa is designated for entertainers, circus artists, and athletes who are coming to the US temporarily to perform at a specific competition or event. An athlete who wishes to remain in the US for a longer period of time should apply for an O1 visa.

Entertainers, circus artists, and athletes who wish to qualify for the visa must show two of the following:

• A written consultation by an appropriate labor organization;
• Significant participation in a prior season with a major United States sports league;
• Participation in international competition with a national team;
• Significant participation in a prior season for a US college or university in intercollegiate competition;
• A written statement from an official of the governing body of the sport which details how the alien or team is internationally recognized;
• A written statement from a member of the sports media or a recognized expert in the sport which details how the alien or team is internationally recognized;
• The individual or team is ranked, if the sport has international rankings; or
• The alien or team has received a significant honor or award in the sport.

Spouses and children of the P1 visa holder may obtain a P4 visa to enter and remain in the US. The P4 visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

General Requirements

A P1 classification applies to an alien who is coming temporarily to the United States:

• To perform at a specific athletic competition as an athlete, individually or as part of a group or team, at an internationally recognized level of performance, or
• To perform with, or as an integral and essential part of the performance of, an entertainment group that has been recognized internationally as being outstanding in the discipline for a sustained and substantial period of time, and who has had a sustained and substantial relationship with the group (ordinarily for at least 1 year) and provides functions integral to the performance of the group.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Copy of a written contract between the petitioner and the alien.
2. Description of the nature of the events that P-visa holder is going to participate
3. A written advisory opinion from an appropriate labor organization
4. Duration of the events or activities

P2 Visa Details

The P2 visa is designated for artists or entertainers individually or as part of a group entering the US temporarily as a part of an exchange program. There should be two organizations involved in this exchange program: one in the US and one abroad.

Artists and entertainers who wish to qualify for the visa must show the following:

• A written consultation by an appropriate labor organization;
• A copy of the formal reciprocal exchange agreement between the US organization(s) sponsoring the alien and the organization(s) in a foreign country which will receive the US artist or entertainer;
• A statement from the sponsoring organization describing the reciprocal exchange of US artists or entertainers as it relates to the specific petition for which classification is sought;
• Evidence the alien and the US artist or entertainer subject to the reciprocal exchange agreement are artists with comparable skills and that the terms and conditions of employment are similar; or
• Evidence that an appropriate labor organization in the US was involved in negotiating, or has concurred with, the reciprocal exchange of US and foreign artists or entertainers.

Spouses and children of the P2 visa holder may obtain a P4 visa to enter and remain in the US. The P4 visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

P3 Visa Details

The P3 visa is designated for teachers and coaches coming temporarily to perform, teach or coach as artists or entertainers, individually or as part of a group, under a program that is culturally unique

Teachers and coaches who wish to qualify for the visa must show the following:

• A written consultation from an appropriate labor organization;
• Documentation from recognized experts attesting to the authenticity of the alien’s or group’s skills in performing, presenting, coaching or teaching the unique and traditional art forms;
• Documentation that all of the performances or presentations will be culturally unique events; and
• Documentation that the performance of the alien or group is culturally unique.

Spouses and children of the P3 visa holder may obtain a P4 visa to enter and remain in the US. The P4 visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

General Requirements

A P3 classification applies to an alien artist or entertainer who is coming temporarily to the United States, either individually or as part of a group, or as an integral part of the performance of the group, to perform, teach, or coach under a commercial or noncommercial program that is culturally unique.

P4 Visa Details

A P4 visa may be obtained by a P1, P2 or P3 visa holder’s spouse and minor children. A P4 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the P1, P2 or P3 visa holder remains in legal status. A P4 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

A P4 visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa.

Study

A P4 visa holder may engage in full or part time study.

General Requirements

The spouse and unmarried minor children of a P1, P2, or P3 alien beneficiary are entitled to P4 nonimmigrant classification, subject to the same period of admission and limitations as the alien beneficiary, if they are accompanying or following to join the alien beneficiary in the United States. Neither the spouse nor a child of the alien beneficiary may accept employment unless he or she has been granted employment authorization.

TN Visa Details

The TN visa is for Canadian and Mexican nationals employed in professional occupations, including teachers, medical professionals and scientists who wish to work in the US temporarily. The TN visa is valid for one year and may be extended indefinitely

Spouses and children of the TN visa holder may obtain a TD visa to enter and remain in the US. The TD visa holder may attend school but if he or she wishes to work, he or she must change his or her status to obtain a work visa.

General Requirements

A citizen of Canada or Mexico who seeks temporary entry as a business person to engage in business activities at a professional level may be admitted to the United States in accordance with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Evidence of citizenship and entry document.
2. Executed TN Support Letter.
3. Applicant’s Degrees, Transcripts, Diplomas, or Certificates (in most cases, original documents will be required at the port-of-entry).
4. Academic/Experience Evaluation (if degree issued outside NAFTA country).
5. Previous Experience Letters (if necessary).
6. Secondary documents to evidence (1) that the position qualifies for TN status; and/or (2) that the applicant’s credentials are appropriate for TN status.
7. Informational literature on Employer.
8. Copy of document evidencing current non-immigrant status in U.S. (e.g., I-94, I-797, I-20).

TD Visa Details

A TD visa may be obtained by a TN visa holder’s spouse and minor children. A TD visa holder may remain in the US as long as the TN visa holder remains in legal status. A TD visa holder may change his or her status in the US.

Employment

A TD visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa.

Study

A TD visa holder may engage in full time study.

General Requirements

The spouse or unmarried minor child of a citizen of Canada or Mexico admitted in TN nonimmigrant status shall be required to present a valid, unexpired nonimmigrant TD visa unless otherwise exempt and shall not accept employment in the United States unless otherwise authorized under the Act.

B1 Visa Details

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), tourism, pleasure or visiting (visa category B-2), or a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

General Requirements

Any B1 visitor for business may be admitted for not more than one year and may be granted extensions of temporary stay in increments of not more than six months each, except that alien members of a religious denomination coming temporarily and solely to do missionary work in behalf of a religious denomination may be granted extensions of not more than one year each, provided that such work d

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. A letter from employer requesting the Visa for the applicant addressed to consulate, indicating the purpose and length of the trip as well as the company’s/ firm’s intent to bear the costs of the entire trip, including lodging , food, medical and other expenses.
2. If you are business owner, bring proof of funds ( Bank statements, copy of passbook, Tax returns) that demonstrate your ability to support you trip.
3. Your business card ( if any).
4. Bring all documents about company’s market and financial position with financial records, sources of funds, Tax papers and any News paper/press coverage or Advertisement brochures about the company.
5. If applicant is going to attend any business/educational/ commercial or professional seminar or conference you must have the event registration proof, letter of invitation, brochure of event , any printed/media/website printout having reference to this event.

B2 Visa Details

A citizen of foreign national who wish to enter to the United States for tourism, pleasure or visiting

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Proof of status for the Sponsor.
2. Invitation letter.
3. Proof of employment.
4. Letter to consulate.
5. Invitation letter.
6. Letter from bank about your financial status.
7. Affidavit of Support from the Sponsor

E1 Visa Details

An E1 visa is for nationals from countries with which the US has a treaty of friendship, commerce, and navigation who are coming to the US to engage in substantial trade between the US and the alien’s country of nationality. The E1 visa employee must hold a supervisory or executive position or have skills which are essential to the successful operation of the enterprise. The E1 visa is initially valid for two years and may be extended indefinitely.

In order to qualify for an E1 visa, you must be a national of one of the following treaty countries:

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Belgium

Bolivia

Bosnia

Brunei

Canada

Colombia

Costa Rica

Croatia

Denmark

Estonia

Ethiopia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Honduras

Iran

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Korea (South)

Latvia

Liberia

Luxembourg

Macedonia

Mexico

Netherlands

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Philippines

Slovenia

Spain

Suriname

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Thailand

Togo

Turkey

United Kingdom

Spouses and children of E1 visa holders may enter and remain in the US in E1 status. E1 visa spouses may apply for work permit. E1 spouses and children may attend school in the US.

General Requirements

An alien, if otherwise admissible, may be classified as a nonimmigrant treaty trader (E1)  if the alien:

Will be in the United States solely to carry on trade of a substantial nature, which is international in scope, either on the alien’s behalf or as an employee of a foreign person or organization engaged in trade principally between the United States and the treaty country of which the alien is a national, taking into consideration any conditions in the country of which the alien is a national which may affect the alien’s ability to carry on such substantial trade; and

Intends to depart the United States upon the expiration or termination of treaty trader (E1) status.

Checklist of Supporting Documents

1. Shares, Stock certificates, Partnership agreement or ownership agreement
2. Purchase orders, Sales contracts, Clients lists, Bills of Landing and etc.
3. Financial Statement and Annual reports
4. Escrow agreement
5. Signed Purchase Agreement
6. Closing and settlement papers
7. Promissory notes
8. Loan documents
9. Financial reports, Tax returns, Security agreement, Mortgage Agreement, Inventory Listing,
10. Shipment Invoices of Inventory
11. Wire Transfer Receipts
12. Occupational License if any
13. Utility or telephone Bills
14. Promotional Materials
15. Organizational Chart
16. Copies of diplomas, transcripts and etc for the Applicant
17. Passport and Civil documents for the Applicant

E2 Visa Details

The E2 visa is designed for aliens engaged in international investment between the United States and the aliens’ country of nationality. E2 visa holders must make a active and substantial investment as well as perform an essential role in the enterprise that results in the creation of job opportunities for US workers. There is no set amount an E2 visa holder must invest as it depends on the type of enterprise. The E2 visa is initially valid for two years and may be extended indefinitely.

In order to qualify for an E2 visa, you must be a national of one of the following treaty countries:

Albania

Argentina

Armenia

Austria

Bangladesh

Belgium

Bosnia

Bulgaria

Cameroon

Costa Rica

Canada

Colombia

Congo

Costa Rica

Croatia

Czech Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

Estonia

Ethiopia

Finland

France

Germany

Grenada

Georgia

Honduras

Iran

Ireland

Italy

Jamaica

Japan

Kazakhstan

Kyrgyzstan

Korea (South)

Latvia

Liberia

Luxembourg

Macedonia

Mexico

Moldova

Mongolia

Morocco

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Panama

Philippines

Poland

Romania

Senegal

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sri Lanka

Suriname

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

Thailand

Togo

Trinidad & Tobago

Tunisia

Turkey

Ukraine

United Kingdom

Zaire

Spouses and children of E2 visa holders may enter and remain in the US in E2 status. E2 spouses may apply for work permit. E2 spouses and children may attend school in the US

General Requirements

E2 status is available when:

•  a foreign business or individual is or will be making a substantial and irrevocable investment in the US in an enterprise that creates jobs
• the Investor’s home country has a treaty of commerce and navigation or a bilateral investment treaty with the US. 

An alien, if otherwise admissible, may be classified as a nonimmigrant treaty trader (E1)  if the alien:

• Will be in the United States solely to carry on trade of a substantial nature, which is international in scope, either on the alien’s behalf or as an employee of a foreign person or organization engaged in trade principally between the United States and the treaty country of which the alien is a national, taking into consideration any conditions in the country of which the alien is a national which may affect the alien’s ability to carry on such substantial trade; and
• Intends to depart the United States upon the expiration or termination of treaty trader (E1) status.

E3 Visa Details

The E3 visa is specifically designed for Australian nationals s who will perform in a specialty occupation in the US. A specialty occupation requires theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge along with at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. For example, architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology, and the arts are specialty occupations.

If the applicant has a college degree or work experience and the job requires a college degree, then the applicant should be able to obtain an E3 visa.

Spouses and children of E3 visa holders may enter and remain in the US in E3 dependent status.

General Requirements

To qualify for an E3 visa, an applicant must demonstrate:

• that he or she must have a legitimate offer of employment in the United States;
• that the position he or she is coming to fill qualifies as specialty occupation employment;
• that he or she is an Australian citizen;
• that he or she has the necessary academic or other qualifying credentials; and
• that his or her stay will be temporary

M visas – Vocational students wishing to pursue non-academic or vocational studies in a community college or junior college that provides vocational or technical training and awards associate degrees; a vocational high school; a trade school or a school of nonacademic training other than language training.

General Requirements

To obtain a student visa, you must have:

• Form I-20 completed by the school showing that you plan to pursue a full course of study.
• Proof of payment of the SEVIS fee. Refer to SEVIS Frequently Asked Questions for more information about SEVIS.
• Sufficient knowledge of the English language to pursue the intended study. If you are not proficient in the English language, you must show evidence that the school is aware of this and will provide language training.
• Sufficient funds for the first year, and access to sufficient funds to cover subsequent years, as evidenced by bank statements or other financial documents. Students may receive permission to work on-campus or off-campus (after the completion of your first year of study) under limited circumstances. Please see information regarding student employment. Employment opportunities can be discussed with the designated school official (DSO) at your school. Accompanying spouse and child may not accept employment.
• Strong economic and social ties to your country of origin indicating your intention to leave the United States upon completion of studies.