Visa Categories

Visas for Work in the United States
(H, L, O, P, Q Visas)

H, L, O, P, and Q visas entitle the holder to work in the United States. All require the company or other organization in the United States to first submit a petition to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for permission to hire a foreign worker. If the petition is approved, the company will be issued a form I-797 enabling you to apply for a visa.

"H" VISA: The H visa is intended for temporary employment in the United States.

• Petitions must first be approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the United States.

• Visas cannot be processed until the applicant or the Consulate has received an approved I-797.

• If the applicant adjusted status within the United States, the applicant must bring the original I-797 to the interview.

• It is also advised that all applicants bring to the interview a certified copy of the I-129 application material.

"L" VISA: The L visa is intended for individuals who are being transferred from their company in China to a branch or related company in the United States. Applicants must intend to fill a managerial or executive position, or have specialized knowledge, and have been continuously employed by the same employer or a related company for one year within the three years immediately preceding the visa application.

Two types of L1 and L2 visas are available.  The single-entry, six-month validity visa is available for no additional charge.  Applicants can also receive a multiple-entry, two-year validity visa for an extra fee of US$120/per person.  If you would like to receive the multiple, two-year visa, please bring sufficient funds with you to the interview.  Blanket L-1 Petitions will also need to pay a $500 fraud prevention and detection fee as of March 8, 2005.  You may pay the fee in Chinese yuan at the current exchange rate.

"O","P" or "Q" VISA: These visas are for performers or trade workers possessing unusual or extraordinary skills who plan to perform, teach, coach, or participate in cultural exchange in the United States.