--- title: What is the criteria for obtaining a work visa in the United States? description: Get your answers to the criteria for obtaining a work visa in the United States with Legal Faqs. Our blog provides detailed information about the eligibility requirements, application process, and tips for a successful outcome. Stay informed and take a step closer towards achieving your career goals in the US. image: https://www.legalfaq.ai/hubfs/LegalFAQ/immigration-legalFAQs.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/what-is-the-criteria-for-obtaining-a-work-visa-in-the-united-states#main-content) [LegalFAQ.ai](https://www.legalfaq.ai/) - [Home](https://www.legalfaq.ai) - [Blog](https://www.legalfaq.ai/blog) - [FAQ Library](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/all) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Home](https://www.legalfaq.ai) - [Blog](https://www.legalfaq.ai/blog) - [FAQ Library](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/all) - [Ask a question](https://www.legalfaq.ai/ask) [Ask a question](https://www.legalfaq.ai/ask) [All posts](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/all) April 16, 2023 # What is the criteria for obtaining a work visa in the United States? ![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·  1 minute read # The Criteria for Obtaining a Work Visa in the United States The criteria for obtaining a work visa in the United States varies depending on the type of visa being sought. The two main work visa categories are the H-1B visa and the L-1 visa. ## H-1B Visa To be eligible for an H-1B visa, the applicant must: 1. Have a job offer from a U.S. employer and the job must be in a specialty occupation that requires specialized knowledge and a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field. 2. Possess the required education or experience to perform the duties of the specialty occupation. 3. Be paid the prevailing wage for the job in the area where the employee will be working. 4. Meet any additional requirements set forth by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). ## L-1 Visa To be eligible for an L-1 visa, the applicant must: 1. Have worked for a company abroad for at least one year. 2. Be transferred to the U.S. branch or affiliate of that company to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity. 3. Demonstrate that the U.S. company has a qualifying relationship with the foreign company, such as parent/subsidiary, affiliate, or joint venture. 4. Meet any additional requirements set forth by the USCIS. It is important to note that there are limitations and exceptions to these requirements, and that each individual case may have unique factors that could impact eligibility for a work visa. For example, certain professions may have additional requirements or may be subject to quotas or caps. It is recommended that applicants seek the advice of a licensed attorney to ensure that they meet all the requirements and to discuss any potential issues or challenges. 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