The United States offers various types of work visas for foreign nationals who want to work legally in the country. The most common work visas include the H-1B, L-1, O-1, and TN visas. Additionally, immigrants without a work visa can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit.
Types of Work Visas
1. H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)
- Designed for skilled professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare.
- Requires sponsorship from a U.S. employer.
- Limited to 85,000 new visas per year.
- Valid for up to 6 years (initially 3 years, with a possible 3-year extension).
- Requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field.
- More details: USCIS H-1B Visa Information
2. L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)
- For employees of multinational companies transferring to a U.S. office.
- Two types: L-1A for managers and executives, L-1B for specialized knowledge employees.
- Valid for up to 7 years (L-1A) or up to 5 years (L-1B).
- More details: USCIS L-1 Visa Information
3. O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)
- For individuals with extraordinary skills in arts, sciences, business, athletics, or education.
- Requires proof of exceptional achievements.
- Valid for up to 3 years, with 1-year extensions available.
- More details: USCIS O-1 Visa Information
4. TN Visa (For Canadian & Mexican Citizens)
- Available under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) agreement.
- For professionals in specific fields (engineering, teaching, law, science, etc.).
- No annual cap on TN visas.
- More details: USCIS TN Visa Information
5. E-2 Visa (Investor Visa)
- For investors who start or buy a business in the U.S.
- Requires a substantial investment in a U.S. business.
- Valid for up to 5 years, with unlimited renewals.
- More details: USCIS E-2 Visa Information
How to Get a Work Permit (EAD) for Immigrants
A Work Permit, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allows certain immigrants to work legally in the U.S.
Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?
- Green Card applicants (pending status)
- Asylum seekers and refugees
- DACA recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
- Spouses of certain visa holders (H-4, L-2, E-2)
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders
Application Process for a Work Permit (EAD)
- Complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
- Download the form: USCIS I-765 Form
- Gather Required Documents
- Copy of your passport
- Copy of your visa or immigration status proof
- Two passport-size photos
- Previous EAD (if renewing)
- Pay the Filing Fee (if required)
- Fees vary depending on the applicant’s immigration category.
- Some applicants (asylum seekers, refugees) may qualify for a fee waiver.
- Submit Your Application
- You can file online or by mail to the appropriate USCIS service center.
- Check where to file: USCIS Filing Locations
- Receive EAD Approval
- Processing times vary (typically 2–6 months).
- Once approved, the EAD card is mailed to the applicant.
- More details: USCIS Work Permit Information
Key Differences Between Work Visas and EAD (Work Permit)
| Work Visa | Work Permit (EAD) |
|---|---|
| Requires employer sponsorship | Does not require employer sponsorship |
| Linked to a specific job | Allows work for any employer |
| Can lead to a Green Card (H-1B, L-1) | Temporary authorization only |
| Complex application process | Simpler application process |
Final Tips for Immigrants Seeking Work in the USA
- Apply Early – Work visa applications have strict deadlines (especially H-1B).
- Check Your Eligibility – Some visas require degrees or specialized skills.
- Find an Employer Sponsor – Most work visas need employer sponsorship.
- Stay Updated – Immigration laws and visa policies may change.
For the latest updates, visit:
By understanding work visa options and EAD requirements, immigrants can legally work and build their careers in the United States.