What type of visa do I need if I want to work in the United States as a professional?
If you want to work in the United States as a professional, you will need a nonimmigrant work visa. There are several types of nonimmigrant work visas available depending on your qualifications and the nature of your employment.
The most common type of nonimmigrant work visa is the H-1B visa. This visa is available to individuals with specialized knowledge, a bachelor's degree or higher, and a job offer from a U.S. employer. The H-1B visa is valid for up to three years and can be extended for an additional three years.
Another type of nonimmigrant work visa is the L-1 visa. This visa is available to multinational companies that wish to transfer employees from their foreign offices to their U.S. offices. To qualify for an L-1 visa, the employee must have worked for the company for at least one year and the U.S. office must be a parent, subsidiary, or affiliate of the foreign company.
There is also the TN visa available for Canadian and Mexican citizens working in specific professions, the E-3 visa available for Australian citizens, and the O visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities.
It is important to note that each visa has specific requirements and limitations. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best option for your situation and to assist you in the application process.