Legal entry through a visa
Immigrants have several options to get authorization to enter the U.S., but most immigrants enter with a visa. The visa application process takes time and thoroughness. An immigrant can be denied a visa for a simple error on an application or an omission in an interview.
Most immigrants apply for a visa from these three categories:
- Visa for travel
- Visa for work
- Visa for family-based immigration
There are dozens of visas an immigrant can apply for authorization to legally enter the U.S. The visa an immigrant applies for is contigent on their reason for travel and how long they intend to stay in the country. An immigrant should apply for an immigrant (permanent) visa if they want to work and live in the U.S. long-term. A nonimmigrant (temporary) visa is issued to immigrants who want to do seasonal work in the U.S. or want to travel.
We urge you to visit the official website of the USCIS to learn more about visas: https://www.uscis.gov/working-united-states/temporary-nonimmigrant-workers
The most requested immigrant visas include:
- Visa for spouses of U.S. citizens.
- K-1 Visas for immigrants married to U.S. citizens
The most requested nonimmigrant visas include:
- H-1B Visas- For workers with a bachelor’s degree at minimum with preferred skills.
- H-2B Visas- Issued for temporary work in the agricultural industry and hospitality industry
Of the nonimmigrant category, H-1B visas are highly sought after because they are considered dual-intent visa. An H-1B visa can be used for temporary work in the U.S. and must be renewed, but in some cases, H-1B visa holders are permitted to apply for a green card. USCIS only grants 65,000 H-1B visas a year, so they run out quickly.
