Can my employer sponsor me for a green card?

Most employment-based green cards require employer sponsorship through PERM labor certification and an approved I-140. EB-1A extraordinary ability and EB-2 NIW allow self-petition for qualifying individuals.

What happens to my work visa if I change jobs?

H-1B: transfer to new employer (who files a transfer petition) — you can start working as soon as the transfer is properly filed. L-1 and O-1: new petition with new employer/agent required. Always consult an attorney before leaving a sponsoring employer.

How long does H-1B take?

Lottery registration: March. October 1 start date. USCIS adjudication: 3–6 months standard, 1–3 weeks with premium processing ($2,805). You cannot start H-1B work until October 1 unless changing from another valid work status.

Can I bring my family on a work visa?

H-4 visas for H-1B dependents. H-4 EAD available if the H-1B holder has an approved I-140. L-2 spouses automatically have work authorization. O-3 dependents (O-1) do not have work authorization.

Work Visas & Employment Authorization — Find Trusted Immigration Legal Services Professionals

What Is Work Visas & Employment Authorization?

US work visas enable foreign nationals to work legally for specific employers — dozens of categories cover specialty occupations, intracompany transfers, extraordinary ability, and treaty positions.

H-1B: Specialty Occupation

H-1B for college-educated professionals in specialty occupations. Annual cap: 65,000 + 20,000 for US master's holders. Demand far exceeds supply — computerized lottery. Employer-sponsored, tied to the petitioning employer. New H-1B petition required for employer changes.

L-1: Intracompany Transferees

L-1A (managers/executives) and L-1B (specialized knowledge) allow multinational companies to transfer employees to the US entity. No annual cap. L-1A can be a direct path to EB-1C green card.

O-1: Extraordinary Ability

O-1A (sciences, education, business, athletics) and O-1B (arts): no annual cap. High standards but apply beyond celebrities — professionals with significant publications, patents, awards, or media coverage may qualify.

TN: Canadian and Mexican Professionals

The USMCA TN visa allows professionals in listed occupations to work in the US without the H-1B lottery. Canadians apply at the border; Mexicans at a US consulate. Renewable indefinitely.

What to Look for in a Immigration Law Provider

Active state bar license — verify through your state bar's public lookup
AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) membership — indicates specialization
Experience specifically in your case type (family, employment, asylum, removal defense)
No disciplinary history — check your state bar and AILA
Clear written fee agreement before any work begins
Responsive communication — immigration has strict deadlines that require timely attorney action

Professional Work Visas & Employment Authorization