If you want to come to the U.S. for employment purposes, it’s important to understand the different visa classifications. This helps you determine the category you belong to and the requirements you must meet to be eligible for employment authorization.
The first thing to consider is whether you are coming to the county as a temporary or permanent worker. Here is what to know about these two:
Temporary worker
A temporary or nonimmigrant worker is someone who wants to enter the U.S. for a limited period to perform specific work. Several classifications of nonimmigrant workers exist, including:
- The CW-1 category, which is only for employment in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)
- E-1 for treaty traders and qualified workers
- H-1B for workers in a specialty occupation
- H-1C for registered nurses to work in designated health professional shortage areas
- P-1A for internationally recognized athletes
- P-1B for internationally recognized entertainers or members of internationally recognized entertainment groups
- R-1 for religious workers, and so on
These categories have different requirements and limitations. Being well-informed about the category you want to apply for is crucial.
Permanent worker
A permanent or immigrant worker is someone who can live and work in the U.S. Having the right combination of skills, education, and/or work experience can make you eligible for this option.
The visa categories of a permanent worker are:
- First preference EB-1 for “priority workers”
- Second preference EB-2 for members of the professions holding an advanced degree or those with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, or business
- Third preference EB-3 for professionals, skilled workers and other workers
- Fourth preference EB-4 for “special immigrants”
- Fifth preference EB-5 for business investors
Your skill set determines the preference you belong to and the requirements to meet.
Applying for an employment-based immigration visa can be complicated if you lack adequate information. Learn more to smooth your experience.