WORK VISAS TO THE UNITED STATES

SPECIALTY OCCUPATION VISA TO THE UNITED STATES

Persons abroad may enter the United States to work in a specialty occupation. A ‘specialty occupation’ is a job that requires highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field such as, architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology and the arts. Fashion models of distinguished merit and ability may also qualify. There is a 65,000 per year limit on the number of foreign workers who may receive initial H-1B status during each government fiscal year (October 1 through September 30), with exceptions for persons from Chile and Singapore, and recently returning workers.

SPECIALTY OCCUPATION VISA BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The Specialty Occupation Visa requires applicants to obtain an H-1B Visa prior to entry and show that the purpose of their stay is for employment related to their field of study. Basic requirements include that the applicant be able to show that he or she possesses a job in the United States and possesses the required bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific field, or is a fashion model of distinguished merit and ability. The job itself must be a specialty occupation and require a bachelor-level or higher qualification. Applicants may also be required to meet certain criminal and medical requirements.

SPECIALTY OCCUPATION VISA ENTITLEMENTS

The initial period of stay is up to 3 years, with a 3-year increment extension. The maximum authorized period of stay is limited to 6 years, with some exceptions.

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay require derivative visa status. Spouses and children of visa holders may study in private or public schools in the United States without obtaining a Study Visa. Spouses may apply for work authorization if seeking employment for their duration of stay in the United States.

Skilled (Work) Visa provides you with the opportunity to work and live in the United States for a designated period at a specific job. As well, you are entitled to have dual intent, which means that you are able to maintain your visa status as a temporary worker while at the same time pursuing permanent residence, otherwise known as applying for a Green Card. As a Permanent Resident, you will have most of the rights of a United States Citizen, with few exceptions, including the right to live permanently in the United States, the right to be employed in the United States in any legal work, the right to study and the right to vote in some local elections.

You will also be able to travel freely among the 50 states and travel to and from the United States. As well, once eligible, you can apply become to a U.S. citizen.