Are you considering working in the United States but you require a work visa sponsorship to make your stay and work in the country legally? if yes, then this blog post is for you. No doubt, the process of obtaining the visa sponsorship might seem complex at first. However, with the right guidance and preparation, you can successfully apply for this visa and pursue your professional goals in the United States. USA Work Visa Sponsorship can also enable you to live in the United States and obtain a legal permanent resident, enroll in school, own properties, and even get a driver’s license in the US.
In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how you can apply for USA work visa sponsorship.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply For USA Work Visa Sponsorship
Obtaining a work visa sponsorship in the US can be a daunting task and can be time-consuming. It just involves the employer appointing an immigration lawyer to handle the application procedure while you complete the application process in your home country.
However, these are the seven steps your need to pass through when applying for a USA work visa sponsorship.
Confirm Your Eligibility
The first step in applying for Work Visa Sponsorship is to identify the appropriate type of visa that is suitable for you and ensure you are eligible to apply for this type of visa. Knowing the appropriate visa category depends on your qualifications and the circumstances surrounding your application. The most common categories of work visas include:
- H-1B visa (for skilled workers
- L-1 visa (for intercompany transferees)
- O-1 visa (for individuals with exceptional abilities)
- TN visa (for Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA)
Other categories include:
- H-2A visa (for temporary agricultural workers)
- H-2B visa (for temporary non-agricultural workers)
- O-2 visa (for individuals who are assistants accompanying o-1 Visa holders)
Find a US employer ready and willing to sponsor
To apply for a work visa, you need to obtain a full-time job offer from a US-based employer who is willing and ready to sponsor your visa application. To find an employer, you should thoroughly search for jobs using online job boards or portals, or professional networking sites. You can also find jobs by directly contacting companies in your field of expertise. You should however, ensure that the employer is hiring foreign workers and is ready to sponsor your visa application.
Submit a Labor Certificate
For some categories of work visas such as the H-1B visa, the employer might b required to obtain a certificate of labor certification from the United States Department of Labor (DOL). This process requires the employer to prove that the company couldn’t find a potential employer who is qualified for the position within the US. This certification can be quite time-consuming, therefore it is necessary to start your application process as early as possible if it applies to your situation.
File the Petition
Once you have been able to secure a job offer and obtained a labor certification, the next step is for your employer to file a petition on your behalf. The petition typically involves completing the necessary forms, providing necessary supporting documents such as qualifications, contracts, and itineraries, and paying the required fees. Each work visa category has its own specific forms and requirements, it is therefore vital to strictly adhere to the instructions provided by the carefully.
Wait for the USCIS Notice of Approval
After your employer completes the filing of the petition, the USCIS will review the application and decide on what to do. The processing time is usually different depending on the work visa category and the number of cases currently with the USCIS. You can check the USCIS website to know the current processing times to know the best time to send your petition. If your application is approved, you and your employer will be notified. You will receive a Notice of Approval or a form labeled Form I-79 which will indicate the approval of your application.
Complete Your Work Visa Application
Once your petition has been approved, you can then begin the actual visa application process with the US embassy in your country. This involves completing the online nonimmigrant visa application, paying the visa application fee, and scheduling an interview at the embassy or consulate in your home country. You should, however, prepare all necessary documentation, including your passport, job offer letter, Form I-979, and other supporting document proving your qualifications.
Attend the Interview
Attending t interview is a crucial step in the work visa application process. You should prepare thoroughly by going through the requirements, and familiarizing yourself with the job offer and the company’s details. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications and plans in the United States. Try as much as possible to be honest and provide clear and concise answers to the questions. Once your visa is approved, the consular officer will attach the visa to your passport.
Conclusion
The application process for USA work visa sponsorship may seem to be a complex process, but with a careful approach and understanding of the steps involved, you can easily and successfully navigate the process. You however first ensure you confirm your eligibility, secure a job offer, complete all required documentation, and prepare yourself thoroughly for the visa interview at the embassy.
The process can be quite time-consuming but the rewards are actually worth it. Having a work visa sponsorship in the USA can actually open up other exciting opportunities for you, especially in your professional growth and personal development in the country. You should, however, know that obtaining a USA work visa sponsorship is just the beginning of your journey. You should familiarize yourself, once you get to the United States, with the laws and regulations, observe the culture and make the most of the opportunities that present themselves to you.