The US employment-based visas account for a large share of US annual visa grants. According to official statistics, around 140,000 employment-based visas are available to foreign job seekers every fiscal year. So the question is how can you be one of them?

Who Can Apply For a US Employment-based Visa?

First, one must not have any record of criminal activities or any sort of conflict with the US laws in the past. If this fundamental criterion is not met, one cannot apply for a US employment-based visas let alone enter the country.

However, in the following we’re considering that this is crystal-clear to anyone and we can list other eligibility criteria. Fortunately apart from that there are not many strict criteria you must satisfy.

In principle, every foreign citizen who is initially offered a job place in a US company is eligible for an employment-based visa application. In addition, the employer must be issued a Labor Certificate from the US Department of Labor. To do so he/she must in some way explain his/her decision to hire a foreign citizen instead of a US citizen. One way he/she can do that is by arguing that no better qualified candidate was found in the US market.

Also, upon approval from the Department of Labor, the employer must file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140 to the US Immigration and Citizenship Services. Once their request is approved the foreign job candidate is eligible to initiate an employment-based visa application at the US embassy.

To sum up this section

• Eligible US employment-based visa applicants must
• Have no criminal background or any sort of conflict with the US laws in the past
• Have a job offer from a legal US employer
• Have a work approval from the Department of Labor and USCIS

How To Apply For a US Employment-Based Visa?

Once USCIS approves the petition, they will send it to the National Visa Center (NVC). After that, they will assign a case number to that petition. Next, the candidate will be required to complete Form DS-261, Choice of Address and Agent. (IMPORTANT NOTE: If the applicant has an attorney they won’t have to complete Form DS-261). In the next step, the candidate must pay fees. Finally, after paying those fees, the applicant must submit the required documents to complete his/her application.

What Documents I Must Submit For a US Employment-Based Visa?

A valid US employment-based visa application must include

• Passport
• Two (2) 2×2 photos
• Applicant’s civil documents
• Proof of financial resources
• Proof of completed medical examinations

Employment-based Visa Interview

After the NVC collects an application they forward the case to the US embassy located in the applicant’s home country. The US embassy will then schedule an appointment with him/her to complete the process. Information concerning the date and time of this appointment along with other instructions will be sent via email or per post. On the appointment day, the applicant must bring any documents that he/she didn’t submit to NVC. Also, he/she will be interviewed by an embassy official who will judge if the applicant qualifies for an employment-based visa. In addition, digital fingerprints will be taken on that day. After going through the whole process the candidate must wait for the embassy to process their application. The processing time might vary. However, the applicant can expect to receive an answer within days. Finally, if the application is approved the applicant will be notified on what day they can show up to get their US employment-based visa.

 The following is everything you need to know about Green Card.

Green Card Eligibility

If any of the categories below fit to your personal situation you’re an eligible US Green Card applicant:

• Green Card through Family
• Green Card through Employment
• Green Card as a Special Immigrant
• Green Card through Refugee or Asylee Status
• Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims
• Green Card for Victims of Abuse
• Green Card for Victims of Abuse
• Green Card through Other Categories
• Green Card through Registry

How To Apply For a Green Card?

Given that you’ve checked your eligibility you can start the application for a Green Card. Keep in mind that this process varies based on your category. However, a general description can be made and includes the following steps

1. File an immigration petition to the USCIS (your US sponsor must do this on your behalf. However in some case you can do this on your own).
2. You submit your Green Card application through USCIS or the US embassy located in your country
3. Make an appointment at the US embassy (if it applies in your case)
4. Attend your appointment and provide the embassy with your biometrics (fingerprints, photos and a signature)
5. Get your Green Card

Most categories of Green Card applications are petition-based. In that case, you must file a petition to the authority in charge of collecting immigration requests, the US Immigration and Citizenship Services (USCIS). Upon their approval both you and your US sponsor will receive a confirmation document with which you can proceed with the Green Card submission.

Here is a list of the most common petition forms

• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
• Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
• Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal

And a few more:

• Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er) or Special Immigrant
• Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur
• Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
• Form I-929, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant

Can Green Card Holder Vote In The US?

A very common question among Green Card applicants is that if they can vote in the US? The answer is NO.

Of course, a Green Card document corresponds to the status of a legal US permanent resident. However, there are a few limitations as per what you can do and what not. Voting in the US is one of them.

Furthermore, if you vote or even register to vote consequences may follow. It can also happen that you get deported due to that.

However, there are a few rare exceptions. In some US states, lawful permanent residents can vote in local and state elections. For instance, under a legal act by the City Council in New York City approved in January 2020 around a million permanent residents and immigrants on work visas can vote.

In addition, a Green Card holder cannot become a US president or lead the US Department of Defense. To be granted all of the above rights you must have the status of a US citizen. If you live for a certain period of time and you get your US citizenship you’ll be allowed to vote in the US.

As you’d expect, seeking immigration to the US is a more complicated process than one for a non-immigrant visa application. This is because there are more requirements and restrictions related to it. Also, permanent immigration requests are reviewed in much more detail. That being the case it is worth taking a look at it which is what we’re going to in the following.

Who Can Immigrate To The US?

While it is nothing of a mystery why so many people want to immigrate to the US it is surely not that crystal-clear who is permitted to seek permanent immigration to the US. Unfortunately not every person is allowed to do such a thing. Certain specific criteria are to be met in order for one to be able to become a legal US permanent resident.

In general, there are a few ways you can apply for permanent immigration to the US:

1.Family-based permanent immigration –  By law US citizens and legal permanent residents have the right to request a reunion with their close relatives living abroad. By definition, this includes a child, brother, sister, spouse, or parent. However, certain limitations are applied to this rule as well. For instance, the child of a US citizen willing to become a US resident must be unmarried at the time of application.

2.Employment-based permanent immigration – If you manage to get a job offer from a US employer you’re considered a potential candidate for permanent immigration to the US. Nevertheless, this is not the only condition to be met. Typically, this category includes senior executives and those holding managerial positions. Moreover, the US employer must provide evidence that he/she couldn’t find a proper candidate in the US job market.

3.Through adoption from a US citizen or legal permanent resident – The US law scheme allows its citizens and permanent residents to adopt orphans.

4.Through a Diversity Visa – In order to ensure equality, the US offers a limited number of immigration visas to nationals of the countries that are less represented in the share of immigrants in the US. The issuance of such a visa is on a lottery basis.

5.Through a special immigrant status – This category includes a long list of eligible candidates as shown below

• Employees of the International Broadcasting Bureau of the Broadcasting Board of Governors
• Ministers of Religion
• Certain current or former employees of the US Government
• Certain Former Employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government
• Certain Former Employees of the US Government in the Panama Canal Zone
• Certain Former Employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government on April 1^st, 1979
• Iraqi and Afghan interpreters/translators who have worked for the US Government
• Iraqi and Afghan nationals who have provided faithful and valuable service to the US Government
• Certain Foreign Medical Graduates
• Certain Retired International Organization Employees
• Certain Unmarried Sons and Daughters of International Organization Employees
• Certain Surviving Spouses of deceased International Organization Employees
• Special Immigrant Juveniles (no family member derivatives; Adjustments Only)
• Persons Recruited Outside of the United States Who Have Served or are Enlisted to Serve in the U.S. Armed Forces
• Certain retired NATO-6 civilians
• Certain Unmarried Sons and Daughters of NATO-6 civilians
• Certain Surviving Spouses of deceased NATO-6 civilian employees
• Persons who are beneficiaries of petitions or labor certification applications filed prior to September 11^th, 2001
• Certain religious workers

How To Immigrate To the US?

After you’ve checked your eligibility for permanent immigration to the US you can continue with the formal procedures.

The application process is different depending on the category that you belong to. Some of them are petition-based. That means the US citizen or resident has to file a request to the US immigration authorities on behalf of the person that is willing to immigrate to the US. They can do this by submitting an official form. After their request is approved they can complete the rest of the procedures with the US embassy. As an illustration to the contrary, diversity visa applicants don’t need to file such a request as they’re applying under no sponsorship by a US citizen or resident.

Therefore the following description is a general one. If you need more detailed information we recommend that you consult our other articles covering each category.

Given that the US immigration authorities have approved their petition (if it applies to him/her) they can continue the application process at the US embassy. For that they will need to pay application fees and make an appointment to submit their visa application. In general, that application will contain the following documents

• Passport
• Two photographs
• Civil documents
• Proof of financial resources
• Proof of medical examinations

However, the US embassy can ask for additional documents so bealways prepared for that.

After one has been issued a US visa and has traveled to the US they must go to immigration authorities to complete the immigration procedures.

The US is home to some of the biggest companies in the world in almost every industry or area. It is therefore normal to be an attraction to many foreign businessmen. Out of millions of visitors that the country has every passing year, a large amount of them are people coming to conduct business affairs.

 In order to be permitted to enter the US for the purpose of engaging in business-related activities, you’ll be required to have a visa. There is no actually no typical US business visa. Therefore when you ask how can you get a US business visa you actually mean on what type of visa you’re granted permission to conduct or engage in business activities in the US.

By law, every foreign businessman planning to enter the country for business purposes must get a US visitor visa. In formal terms, this type of visa is known as the B visa (B-1 and B-2).

As you’d expect there is an application process ahead of you. In addition, there are very important restrictions and details that you must pay attention of. In that view, the information below will guide your way to getting a US business visa.

What Is a US Visitor Visa (B Visa)?

The US Visitor Visa (B visa if you will) is a type of temporary US visa that grants one permission to enter the US for short-stay visits. A US visitor visa holder can participate in numerous activities. There are two types of B visas:

• B-1 Visa
• B-2 Visa

Whether you need one or the other will entirely depend on the nature of your visit. In general, the B-1 visa is for educational, scientific, professional short-term events and also business consulting or conferences. On the other hand, the B-2 visa is issued for tourists, for people visiting their relatives in the US or those seeking medical treatment in the US.

Side note: As already mentioned there is no such thing as a US business visa. However, we’re going to make use of it so you don’t get confused about using a B visa and business visa.

US Business Visa Eligibility

Basically every person able to prove that his/her intention is not the permanent immigration to the US can apply for a US business visa. You can do this by:

Providing evidence that the intention of your visit is solely for a short-term business-related activity (for instance by offering a copy of an invitation you’ve received)

Proving that you will be staying for a limited time and then return home

Provide evidence that you have the required funds to fully support yourself financially

Proof that you have a permanent residence outside of the US and you have strong business and family ties there.

How To Apply For a US Business Visa?

To apply for a US business visa you must follow these steps:

1. Complete the online application by filling the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application DS-180 Form. This document is available to you through the online website of the US embassy in your country.
2. Pay the application fee. It costs you $160.
3.  Make an appointment.
4. Attend your appointment.
5.  Get your visa.

What Documents Do I Need To Submit For a US Business Visa?

Make sure that your visa application for a US business visa contains the following documents

• Valid Passport
• Pass photo (if you didn’t provide it at the stage of online application)
• DS-160 Form
• Proof of your income, of your paid taxes, and your business ownership
• Your travel itinerary and other relevant explanation about your planned trip
• A letter from your current employer providing details about your salary, how long you’ve been working
• Proof of no criminal records

Important note: The embassy officials have the right to ask your additional documents if needed. Therefore always be prepared for that. Also, avoid providing the embassy with false documents as there will be consequences.

How Much Does a Visa Cost?

Visa applicants ask often about how much does a visa cost? Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all type of answer to this question. The reason is that the cost of your visa application depends on certain factors. To help you have a better sense of it, below we’ve listed some important factors that determine how much a visa will cost to you

• Your nationality
• The embassy you’re applying to
• The type of visa 

A few comments on each

Nationality: To a certain degree, embassies of one country apply the same visa fees at any location. However, this is not always the case. In some countries, visa applicants have to pay more or less compared to elsewhere.

The embassy: Not all embassies deal with the same amount of visa applications. The ones that collect a particularly high number of applications charge typically higher fees as there is more work to do for them and more personnel is required.

The type of visa: There are many types of visas and for each of them there are different fees. In principle, this is due to the fact that for some of them a lot more processing work has to be delivered. For instance, an immigration type of visa requires a much detailed review and additional requirements. As such it involves more paperwork and more people to work on it, thus it costs higher.

But now let’s see some numbers in the case of a US visa.

For a US non-immigrant type of visa, you’re going to be charged the following application fees

• US Visitor Visa (B-1 and B-2) – $160
• Student Visa (F and M) – $160
• Visa for Media and Journalists (I) – $160
• Exchange Visitor Visa (J) – $160
• Temporary Worker Visa (H) – $190
• Victims of human trafficking (T) – $160
• Victims of Criminal Events (U) – $160
• Intracompany transferees (L) – $190
• people with extraordinary abilities and achievements (O) – $190
• athletes, entertainers and artists (P) – $190
• Visa For Religious Workers (R) – $190
• International Cultural Exchange Programs Visa  (Q) -$190
• Visa for Investors and Traders (E) – $205
• K Visa – $265

On the other hand, for a US immigration based visa you’re going to pay the following processing fees

• Family-based immigration visa – $325
• Employment-based immigration visa – $345
• Other immigrant visas – $205
• Former Iraqi and Afghan employees of the US Government – No fee

Side note: We have only listed the processing fees. However, immigrant visa applications are petition-based. That means you must initially file a petition to the US immigration authorities and upon approval you can apply for an immigration visa. Therefore, you’re going to be charged a fee for your petition filing as well.

The cost of filing a petition for a US immigrant visa:

• Immigrant Petition for Relative (I- 130) – $535
• Orphan (intercountry adoption) immediate relative petition (I-600, I-800) – $775

Keep always in mind that visa application fees can change. Therefore we recommend that you always refer to official sources for visa fees before starting the application. In this way you know what to expect well on time and you avoid unnecessary stress.

How To Apply For a Green Card For Parents?

If you’re a legal permanent resident of the US you have the right to request a green card for your immediate relative. Provided that you meet this criterion, you can now apply for a Green card for parents.

To do this you will need to file Form I-485 and Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Following the approval from the US immigration authorities, your parent can start procedures that are necessary to complete with the US embassy.

If at the time of application for a Green Card your relative is in the US and a few other criteria are met your parent can apply for the so-called “adjustment status”. That means that they can apply for a Green Card while they’re staying in the US on another temporary travel document, i.e. visa. In such case, they will have to file Form-I 485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

SIDE NOTE:  The annual number of immigrant visas for close relatives is not limited.

What Documents You Must Submit To Apply For Green Card For Parents?

If at the time of application a person who is a close relative of a US legal permanent resident or citizen is already in the US, he or she must provide the following documents to relevant US immigration authorities

• Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
• Copy of the Form I-797 and Approval or Receipt Notice for the Form I-130 you’ve filed
• Two valid pass photos
• valid ID document (with a photo of you on it) – Copy
• your birth certificate – Copy
• page of your passport with the admission stamp issued by the a US immigration officer (if applicable) – Copy
• Copy of Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record or copy of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stamp on your travel document (if applicable)

US Family Based Immigration

The persons that are eligible for permanent immigration to the US are divided in a few categories. One of them are family-based immigration. In this category itself there are five different sub-categories as shown below

• First preference (F1) – Sons and daughters of US citizens (they must be unmarried and at least 21 years old)
• Second preference (F2A) – spouses and children of legal permanent US residents ( they must be unmarried and at least 21 years old)
• Second preference (F2B) – sons and daughters of legal permanent US residents (they must be unmarried and at least 21 years old)
• Third preference (F3) – sons and daughters (married) of US citizens
• Fourth preference (F4) – brothers and sisters of US citizens (the US citizen must be at least 21 years of age)

While the application process for each type of family-based immigration might contain many similarities, official application forms you need to fill and a few other procedures might vary. Therefore it is highly recommended that you request detailed information for each of them from the relevant authorities prior to your application.

Some of these advantages include the followings:

• Immunity
• Easier visa restrictions
• Smooth airport security checks
• Visa-free travel to many countries
• Tax-free airport departures
• Prestige                      

Unfortunately, we’re not all entitled to such a visa. By definition, a passport issued to those persons who hold important governmental positions. In addition, close dependents of passport holders are also eligible for it.

Who Can Get a Diplomatic Passport?

Not everyone working in the Government can get a passport. Typically, only a few high-ranking officials are qualified for this type of passport. Moreover, the list of people entitled to passports is different among countries.

In general, the following governmental employees can get a diplomatic passport:

• The President
• The Primeminister
• Ministers
• Parliament members
• Judges of the Constitutional Court
• Military leaders
• Certain city majors etc

In addition, close family members of these persons have also the right to a diplomatic passport.

How To Get a Diplomatic Passport?

It is very important that you understand one thing right away: a diplomatic passport won’t be issued automatically to you. If you meet the set criteria you have to request your diplomatic passport at the institution charged with issuing them. Commonly, the institution responsible of this is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, this is not the case with every country. Therefore you must always seek information from relevant institutions in your home country.

After you’ve made sure that you qualify for a diplomatic passport you can apply for one at the authority responsible for collecting and processing applications of this nature. As already said, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in most countries the institution charged with this task.

An application for a diplomatic passport is easier than the one for a regular passport. The list of documents one application must contain varies among countries. In general, you must provide the following documents

• Proof of Identity (ID, driver’s license, etc)
• Some proof of the position you hold
• Biometric photographs (not older than 6 months)
• Proof of relationships (for family members of government officials)
• A specific application form

You can carry the application process on your own or you can hire a consultancy agency to do this on your behalf. Many officials choose the second option as it spares them time.

Fortunately, this application can be carried online in most countries. For instance, in the US eligible applicants can complete their application through the Passport Wizard

US Diplomatic Passport

US diplomats and other important employees of the US Government have the right of seeking a passport. On this type of passport, they can travel abroad visa-free to many countries to complete their official duties. passport applications are collected and processed by the State Department in Washington D.C. More precisely, the Special Issuance Agency in Washington is the authority charged with this duty.

Within the US applications for diplomatic passports must be done in person in Washington D.C. Eligible candidates located overseas can submit an application via the US embassy. Nevertheless, the application will be forwarded to the US State Department. In this case, it might take up to 3 months to be issued a US diplomatic visa.

Diplomatic Passport Requirements

An application for a US diplomatic passport must include these documents

• The passport application (filled online through the so-called Passport Wizard)
• Proof of U.S citizenship (for instance your regular passport )
• Proof of Identity (ID, driver’s license, etc.)
• Authorization DS-1640
• One passport photograph (not older than 6 months.

It is easy to see why that is the case. In the US are located some of the world’s best universities according to different relevant rankings. In addition, the country is a host to some of the most eminent professionals in different areas. At the same time, the diversity of its community is the guarantee for a fulfilling social life.

What Is a US Student Visa?

A US student visa is a requirement for international students who want to study at US universities. There are two types of US student visas:

• Student F Visa – required for regular courses that conclude with a recognized certificate or degree including university, high school, private elementary school, etc.
• Student M Visa – for vocational or other non-academic courses apart from language training programs

Who Needs a US Student Visa?

There are many types of US visas and some foreign people might not need one to enter the US. Typically, one’s nationality and purpose of visit determine the kind of visa he/she needs. Due to this, it’s normal to have a little confusion at first.

Remember that all international students are required to have a student visa to be permitted to study in the US. That said, the country of your origin doesn’t play a role although you can travel to the US for short-term visits without a visa (for instance nationals of Visa Waiver Program participating countries). 

How To Get a US Student Visa?

To be an eligible candidate for a visa you must be first given a place at a SEVP-approved US institution. After you receive your admission letter per email you can initiate a visa application at the US embassy in your country. 

A typical US student visa application consists of the following steps:

• Complete the online application
• Pay the application fee
• Schedule an appointment
• Prepare your application file
• Attend your appointment
• Get your visa 

US Student Visa Requirements

Your application file for a US student visa must include the following documents

• Valid Passport
• Pass photo
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 (filled properly)
• Receipt of paid application fee
• Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status– For Academic and Language Students, Form I-20 or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status for Vocational Students, Form I-20 (you will get this document from the US university or school you’re going to attend in the US) 

Working In The US On a Student Visa

Studying abroad comes at a certain price and for many international students, it can be hard to afford it. This is particularly the case in the US as university fees and other living expenses are relatively high. So you might be asking if you can work part-time in the US on a student visa. 

Fortunately, the answer is YES, you can work in the US on a student visa. However, know that there a few restrictions.

During the first academic year at a US university, you can work only within the campus. There are a number of part-time jobs offered to students. Such jobs can include working in the library, cafeteria, student center, etc.

After the first academic year, you can seek employment outside the campus. However, you can do this only through some specific programs like the ones listed here

Optional  Practical Training OPT

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

In addition, there are upper limits in terms of the time you’re allowed to work. This might subtly vary among the programs listed above. For instance, you’re permitted to work for a period of 12 months at maximum through the CPT program. By law, you can work up to 20 hours per week on a US student visa during the regular academic year. On the other hand, during the summer break, you can work full-time.

Last but not least, we recommend that you seek detailed information about working opportunities from your university or the international students’ center. 

Types Of US Visas

In general, US visas are divided into main categories

• Non-immigration visas
• Immigration visas

Common US non-immigrant visas are:

• Tourist visa (B-2 visa)
• Business visa (B-1 visa)
• Temporary work visa (H type of visa)
• Student visa (F visa)
• Exchange visitor visa (J visa)
• Transit visa (C visa)
• Media and Journalist visa (I visa)

Whereas US immigrant visas include:

• Family-based immigration visa
• Employment-based immigration visa
• Religious work visa
• Investor visa
• Diversity Immigrant visa etc.

What Type Of US Visa Do I Need?

Before you can even start a visa application you must always check which type of US visa you need. In general, there are two main factors that specify what visa you’re required to get:

• The intention of your visit
• Your nationality

As seen above, if you plan a short visit to the US then you must apply for a non-immigration type of visa. On the other hand, for indefinitely long stays in the US and finding a job an immigration type of visa is required. Also, visa requirements vary subtly among different countries. For instance, citizens of Visa Waiver Program participating countries can travel visa-free to the US for short visits.

US Work Visas

The US has a global reputation for an attractive job market. Therefore, of many foreign people who enter the country every year, a high number of them come to work in the US.

If you want to work in the US as well you must first obtain a work type of visa. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a US work visa. It’s rather a common name for a category of visas issued to foreign employees planning to work in the US. For instance, a US work visa can be an immigration visa or a non-immigration one. For instance, if you’re going to work in the US for a limited period of time you will need a non-immigration visa. On the other hand, if you’re seeking long-term employment under the sponsorship of a US employer you’re required to get an immigrant type of visa.

The list of US work visas:

• H-1B Visa: Person in Specialty Occupation
• H-1B1 Visa: Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Professional – Chile, Singapore
• H-2A Visa: Temporary Agricultural Worker
• H-2B Visa: Temporary Non-agricultural Worker
• H-3 Visa: Trainee or Special Education visitor
• I Visa: Representatives of Foreign Media
• L1 Visa: Intracompany Transferee
• P-1 Visa: Individual or Team Athlete, or Member or an Entertainment Group
• P-2 Visa: Artist or Entertainer (Individual or Group) –  to perform as part of a reciprocal exchange program.
• P-3 Visa: Artist or Entertainer (Individual or Group) –  to perform, teach or coach under an exchange program that is aimed at promoting cultural exchange, traditions, folk, etc.
• R-1 Visa: Temporary Nonimmigrant Religious Workers
• TN Visa: NAFTA Workers
• O1 Visa: Visa for persons with outstanding abilities

How To Get An US Work Visa?

First, you must have a job offer from a US employer. If that is the case, the company that is willing to hire you must file a petition to the USCIS on your behalf. This petition can be an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, or Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker Form I-129. Furthermore, in some cases, your employer must request the approval of a Labor Certificate from the Department of Labor.

With these documents in your possession, you can initiate a standard visa application process at the US embassy in your home country. This process consists of these steps

Complete the online application through the website of the embassy

• Pay the application fee
• Schedule an appointment
• Collect the required documents
• Attend your appointment
• Get your US work visa. 

In order to legally live in the US, you must obtain the status of a permanent resident. You can do this by getting a Green Card.

 But what is a green card and how do you get a green card? We get you covered below here. 

What Is a Green Card?

it is a document (a card) that allows you to live in the US as a legal permanent resident. In the formal language, it is known as the Permanent Residence Card.

Many that ask what is a green card and how do you get one want also to know what are their rights as permanent residents in the US? Basically, on a Green Card, you have all the rights of a US citizen apart from a few. For instance, permanent residents don’t have the right to vote, hold important positions in the defense or in the government, etc.

How To Get a Green Card?

The process of getting a Green Card goes in a number of steps that depend on several factors. Therefore you must always collect detailed information to avoid missing important procedures in this process.

The first thing that you must do in this process is to check your eligibility for Green Card.

Eligible Green Card applicants are divided into the following categories

• through family
• through employment
• as a special immigrant
• through Refugee or Asylee Status
• Human Trafficking and Crime Victims
• for Victims of Abuse
• through Categories (Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness, Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, Cuban Adjustment Act etc)
• through Registry

 If your case corresponds to any of the above then you are eligible for a Green Card application.

Given that you’ve checked your eligibility you can now apply for a US permanent residence card. However, it’s worth mentioning that this process is not uniform for all applicants. Among others, a Green Card application depends on your category. In general, a Green card applicant must complete these procedures

• File an immigration petition to USCIS (typically, a US sponsor does this on your behalf but there cases when you can do this by yourself)
• You submit a Green Card application to USCIS or apply through the US State Department
• You schedule an appointment to provide fingerprints and photos. Also, you’re going to attend an interview.
• Receive a decision about your green card application.

Most people apply for permanent residence in the US under the sponsorship of a US citizen or permanent resident. In such a case, the US sponsor must fill a specific application form and submit it to USCIS on your behalf. The application form that the sponsor is required to fill out depends on the category of applicants you’re listed under. Some common forms include the followings

• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
• Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
• Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal

 FAQ

Can Green Card holders vote in the US? – No.

Can I apply for citizenship? – Yes. However, you must live in the US for at least five years to become eligible for citizenship.

Is a green card permanently valid? – Yes. Green cards have no expiration date. However, there are some conditional permanent residence cards that are valid for 10 years.

Can I lose my permanent residence status if I spend a long time abroad? – It is very important for you to know that if you live more than a year in another country uninterruptedly you will lose your permanent residence status and you must again get this.

Can I apply For a Green Card inside in the US? – Yes. If you’re already in the US and want to adjust your status to a permanent resident you can do this through USCIS. On the other hand, if at the time of application you’re located in your home country you can apply through the US embassy (Consular processing).

If you’re reading this article chances are that you have similar immigration plans in the near future. As you might expect, seeking immigration in the United States is not easy. There is a number of formal procedures and documents you have to provide to the US authorities. To earn your long-term immigration status it’s essential that you clearly understand and properly follow this process.

Therefore we present here a list of information that you need to know about immigration to the United States.

There are several legal how can you immigrate to the US. If you find yourself in any of the categories below then you can apply for immigration to the US:

Family-based visa – a US citizen or legal permanent resident can request an immigration visa for a close family member.

Employment-based visa – if you’ve been offered a job place in a US company or if you’re a successful businessman planning to invest in the US.

Adoption – US citizens and legal permanent residents can adopt children from elsewhere. That makes the child eligible for immigration to the US.

Diversity visa – if you’re a citizen of a list of countries that have a low immigration rate to the US you can apply for a US visa.

Special immigrant – includes special categories, like for instance people who have worked for the US government.

How To Immigrate To The US?

The first step to legally immigrate to the US is to check if your situation corresponds to any of the above. After you’ve done that you can initiate an immigration process. Notice that depending on what grounds you’re seeking immigration to the US the legal procedures might be slightly different. Therefore for detailed instructions, you must always rely on information provided by the relevant US authority.

Family-Based Immigration To The US

If you have a close family member that is living in the US you can apply for a US immigrant visa. In that case, the process will not be entirely on your end. Your relative residing in the US must initially file a petition to the USCIS. This document is formally known as the Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative. Once their request is approved the case will be handed over to the National Visa Center of the State Department. You will need then to create your case in their online system. In the next step, they will send you via email your login data to have access to their Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). After that, you can submit your documents and schedule an interview at the US embassy in your location and then pay the fees.

Next, you must complete an online application by filling the DS-260 Form. In the final step you can attend your interview and bring with you all documents you’ve uploaded through CEAC online service.

Employment-Based Visa

Remember only certain foreign employees holding particular positions or having particular degrees can immigrate to the US. There are five sub-categories in this group of immigrant visas:

• First Preference Employment (E1): Priority Workers
• Second Preference Employment (E2): Professionals Holding Advanced Degrees and Persons of Exceptional Ability
• Third Preference Employment (E3): Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)
• Fourth Preference Employment (E4): Certain Special Immigrants
• Fifth Preference Employment Fifth Preference (E5): Immigrant investors

To seek immigration to the US based on employment grounds your US employer must first obtain a labor certificate. They can request the approval of such document from the Department of Labor in the US. In addition, after they receive the labor certificate they’re obligated to file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140.

Given that their request is approved both of you receive a confirmation email. With that you can proceed to the regular visa application procedure at the US embassy in your country. To do that you will have to pay the application fee and schedule an appointment at the embassy.

Make sure to include the following documents for an US employment-based immigration:

• Valid passport
• Pass photo
• Civil documents
• Evidence of financial resources
• Proof of medical examinations 

A job experience in a foreign country is surely unique, particularly in the US. You won’t only earn a lot and grow professionally but you will also collect unforgettable memories. Perhaps you didn’t even need any of these because we all know how great the US is. So why don’t we jump right away to what it takes to work in the US?

If you want to travel to the US with the purpose of working you need a specific type of visa. Based on the duration of your planned work in the US you will need either a US long-term employment visa or a US temporary employment visa.

In the following, you find detailed information about the latter

US Temporary Work Visa Categories

These are the US temporary employment visa categories

• H-1B – To work in a specialty occupation
• H- 1B1 –  To work in a specialty occupation. Notice that this is not a petition-based type of visa. For details about the application process consult the US embassy in your country.
• H-2A – For seasonal or temporal agricultural work.
• H-2B – For seasonal or temporal non-agricultural work.
• H-3 – To seek non-academic short-term training that is not available in the applicant’s home country.
• L – To work at a branch, partner, affiliate, or subsidiary of the current employer in a managerial or executive role.
• O – For individuals with outstanding achievements in science, art, business, etc. People who offer them essential services are included in this category as well (parents for example).
• P-1 – For athletes or entertainers who are going to participate in an event in their field taking place in the US.
• P-2 – Participating in a reciprocal exchange program between the US and another country.
• P-3 – To perform or coach under a program that is culturally unique, to make a music performance or a presentation.
• Q-1-  To participate in an exchange cultural program and sharing cultures, traditions, and histories.

Am I Eligible To Apply For a US Temporary Employment Visa?

Basically, if you fit to any of the categories above you’re an eligible US temporary employment visa applicant. Also to qualify for this type of visa your US employer will have to file a petition to the USCIS on your behalf. Upon approval of their request both of you will receive a confirmation via email and you can initiate a US temporary employment visa application.

How To Apply For a US Temporary Employment Visa?

Typically, the process of applying for a US temporary employment visa follows these steps

• Complete the online application
• Pay the application fee
• Schedule an appointment
• Attend the appointment
• Get the visa 

Remember that US temporary work visa falls under the category of non-immigration visas. As such, an application starts always with an online application. To complete this part you need to visit the official website of the US embassy in your country. There you will have to fill the DS-160 Form and upload a valid pass photo. Make sure that your photo is taken recently and its format and quality are in line with the requirements set. If you don’t have such a photo at your disposal you must bring it on the appointment day.

After you complete the online application part you must pay the application fee. Currently, the application fee is $160. However, this might change and we recommend that you check always by yourself at the relevant embassy.

In the next step, you must schedule an appointment to submit your US temporary employment visa application. You can do this online through the official website of the US embassy in your country. Typically, the wait time for an appointment is a few days, but in some cases, it can take longer.

After that, you must collect all documents as required. Your application for a US temporary employment visa must include

• Valid passport
• Pass photo
• DS-160 Form
• Proof of paid application fee
• Receipt number – You find this Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797 approved and send to you from USCIS.

SIDE NOTE: L visa applicants must include Form I-129S, Nonimmigrant Petition Based on Blanket L Petition as well.

After you’ve completed your application you must then attend your appointment at the embassy to submit your visa application. On that day you must show up in person and submit your application file. In addition, an official will make an interview with you to better judge your qualification for a US temporary employment visa.

Finally, after a few days following your submission, the embassy will confirm it to you whether you’ve been approved a temporary work visa. They will send you an email to let you know of this along with details on how to get your visa.

If you’re planning a dream trip to the US among many other things you must take care of is certainly getting a visa. The information below is aimed at helping you on how to get a US tourist visa.

What Is a US Tourist Visa?

The US tourist visa is a travel document that grants you entry permission to the US for short-term visits. Formally the visa is referred to as B-2 visa.

In principle, the nature of your visit must be related to tourism. Nevertheless, the following activities are allowed as well for a B-2 visa holder

• Vacation
• Visit relatives or friends
• Medical treatment
• Attend social events hosted by fraternal, social or service organizations
• Attend unpaid musical, sports or similar events or contests
• Complete short recreational courses

However, citizens of many foreign countries are not required to have this type of visa for short-term visits. We’re going to cover this in the following section

Who Needs a US Tourist Visa?

Actually, people coming from Visa Waiver Program participating countries don’t need a US tourist visa. In addition, citizens of Canada and Bermuda can travel visa-free to the US for tourism purposes. Therefore we would recommend that you check the online website of the US embassy in your country for detailed instructions.

How To Apply For a US Tourist Visa?

We’re now at the most important question you: how do you get a US visa?

For that, you must complete a visa application process at the US embassy located in your country. Keep in mind that B-2 visa is in the category of US visitor visas and the application process for this category goes as follows:

Complete the online application – through the official website of the US embassy in your country

Schedule an interview –  similarly, you can do this online through the website of the US embassy

Pay the application fee – this costs $160 and it’s nonrefundable

Prepare your application documents (more in the section below)

US Tourist Visa Requirements

Your US tourist visa application file must include the following documents

• Valid passport
• Pass photo
• DS-160 Form (properly filled and printed)
• Proof of paid fees

Additional documents – The US embassy can at any time request from you to show additional documents. Typically, these additional documents are required:

• The purpose of your visit to the US
• Your intention to return home after B-2 visa is no longer valid
• Proof of your financial resources to cover the cost of the trip to the US

FAQ

How long is a US tourist visa valid? – Up to 6 months.

How long is typically the wait time for an appointment? – A few days.

Is there any other fee I have to pay except the application fee? – It is possible that you will have to pay an issuance fee provided that your visa is approved.

Does the US tourist visa guarantee me entry to the US? – In principle yes. However, border officials at your entry point in the US can turn your request down.

Can I change my immigration status while on a B-2 visa? – If for certain reasons you want to change your immigration status (for example you get married to a US citizen) you must contact the US Immigration and Citizenship Services UCIS.

Since it’s a formal letter, it’s normal that you’re not sure what and how to write one. In fact there is no standard way of writing a letter of invitation. However, there are certain elements that every letter of invitation for US visa must contain. Below you find everything you need to know about this.

Family Visa Application

By law the US citizens and permanent residents have the right to invite close family members to join them in the US for a short visit. One can of course submit a US visa application without a sponsor but in that case chances of a visa approval are lower.  

First thing one must to sponsor a family-based visa is to file a petition to the U.S. Immigration and Citizenship Services. In addition, they must write a formal invitation letter which is going to be used from their relative for a visa application at the US embassy. Commonly a formal invitation letter is required for B-2 (Tourist Visa) visas. Notice that this document is not a must but highly recommended as it can easily make difference in one’s application for a US visa. Therefore it’s essential to understand how does a sample letter for a family-based visa application look like.

First of all, with this letter, the host in the US confirms his/her close relationship to the visa applicant. Furthermore, they ensure that they will provide accommodation to the person and guarantee that they will return home after their visa is no longer valid. In addition, the host in the US may prove to have the required financial resources to fund the cost of the trip of their family member. 

A typical sample letter for US family visa application contains these data:

• Sponsor’s personal data (name, surname, date of birth, address and telephone)
• Sponsor’s job place
• Proof of US citizenship or permanent residency
• Proof of relationship between the host and the visa applicant
• The purpose of the trip
• The planned duration of the stay
• Accommodation cost and other living expenses

If you don’t know how to write one from scratch we give you below a common sample of invitation letter for your US visa sponsorship:

[Date]

United States Consulate General

[Address of the Consulate]

Dear Honorable Consul,

[Visitor’s Name] – PASSPORT NO XXXXXXXX – Born on [Visitor’s Date of Birth]

My name is [Host’s Name], residing at [Host’s Address] and I am a United States citizen (or lawful permanent resident alien).

I am requesting that you issue a tourist (B-2) visa to [Visitor’s Name] who resides at [Visitor’s Address]. This is to allow him to visit me in the United States. We have known and been friends for the past 3 years and I would like him to visit me this summer.

[Visitor’s Name] will be visiting me from [Date of Entry] to [Date of Exit]. This will be a great time because we will both be off work at this time. During his / her stay in the United States, he/she will stay with me at my home at the address stated above.

I will be responsible for his / her accommodation expenses while he/she is in the United States. Upon the termination of his / her visit, he/she will return to [Visitor’s Hometown].

[Visitor’s Name] will be presenting this letter to you, together with other evidence to establish his close ties with [Visitor’s Home Country], and to assure you that he/she will return prior to the expiration of his / her stay in the United States.

Your kind consideration of this request will be highly appreciated.

Yours Truly,

[Host’s Name]

[Host’s Address]

[Host’ Phone Number]

[Host’s signature]

Final Note

US citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a certain type of visa for their close relatives living abroad. This document is optional and the visa applicant can opt to not submit it. However, writing an invitation letter for a US visa is highly recommended as it will significantly increase the chance of visa approval. Every eligible US visa sponsor can write an invitation letter. Although there is no standard form for this type of formal letter, one has to make sure his/her letter contains some essential elements. Last but not least, the sponsor must format his/her letter properly and let someone check for big grammar mistakes.  

Therefore if you’re looking for some invaluable training or internship experience the US is the place where you’re going to find the ideal one. However, there are some eligibility criteria that you must meet and formal procedures to follow. In addition, to be permitted to enter the country for the purpose of attending short to mid-term training or internship programs you need a J-1 visa. In the following, you will learn about both.

What is a J-1 visa?

The J-1 visa is a type of non-immigration visa issued to foreign individuals who want to enter the US for the purpose of completing a short-term training or internship program. Commonly this type of visa is referred to as an Exchange Visitor visa. Therefore these notions might be used interchangeably.

Am I Eligible For a J-1 Visa Application?

Checking your eligibility should always precede a visa application. By doing this you save your time and your money too. In order for you to be eligible for a J-1 visa, you must be given a place to a training or internship program in the US. However, you have to make sure that the program is accredited by the State Department and listed under the Exchange Visitor Program. Given that they can then sponsor your J-1 visa.

How To Apply For a J-1 Visa?

In contrast to a standard visa application, applying for a J-1 visa can appear a little more difficult. In fact you will have this impression because there are some procedures that must be completed by your sponsor in the US.

Therefore to have a smooth and stress-free J-1 visa application, just follow these steps:

Get your Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status (also known as DS-2019) – You cannot apply at the US embassy without this document at your disposal. You and your sponsor will get this document from US authorities via email following your sponsor’s request.

Complete the online application – You can do this online on the official website of the local US embassy. There is a specific application page where you will have to complete the DS-160 Application Form and upload a pass photo. After you complete it, print it out and attach it to other documents.

Pay the application fee – Which is currently $160 and non-refundable.

Schedule an appointment at the US embassy – Similarly, you can do the official website of the embassy. Typically, there is a list of available dates and you’re free to choose among them.

Meet J-1 visa requirements –  Your J-1 visa application file must contain these documents:

• Valid Passport
• Pass photo (if you didn’t upload it online)
• DS-160 Form (printed and properly filled)
• Receipt of fee payment
• Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (DS-2019 Form)
• Training/ Internship Placement Plan (Form DS-702)

Additional documents – Keep in mind that the US embassy has the right to require from you additional documents. This can include evidence for the purpose of your travel to the US, your plan to return home following the end of your training, and your financial resources.

Attend the interview

After you’ve met J-1 visa requirements and completed your application it’s finally time to submit it at the US embassy in your home country. Don’t forget to show up on time for your J-1 visa interview otherwise, they will proceed with other candidates. On the appointment day, you must bring your completed application file and attend a short interview. In addition to the documents listed above your application must include a copy of the confirmation email of your appointment. Following your application at the embassy, you can then wait for them to process your request. The time they need for such a thing may vary depending on the workload of the embassy. In general, you can expect an answer a few days after your application. Nevertheless, don’t book your flight or accommodation in the US before you get your J-1 visa.