VISA2US Blog

Our blog is a source of latest immigration news, policy updates and trends for thousands of readers every month.

FAQs for the National Interest Waiver

July 31, 2023
The United States offers several avenues for foreign nationals to work and live within its borders. One such option is the National Interest Waiver (NIW.) The NIW can open doors to exciting opportunities in the U.S. However, it is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding in order to successfully secure a visa. This blog post addresses some frequent questions about the NIW and provides valuable tips for a successful application. Our FAQ format will answer your most pressing questions and provide clarity on whether this option is suitable for you.

Overview of the Three-Prong Method for National Interest Waivers

July 10, 2023
Obtaining a visa to work and live in the United States is challenging, especially if you intend to file for permanent residency once you’re settled into your new country. The process is quite lengthy and can take years (or even decades) for some people, depending on their situation. But if you qualify for a National Interest Waiver, much of this wait time and headache is eliminated. The key to successfully receiving this coveted document is to pass the US government’s three-prong method, and we’ll explain what that includes here.

How Laid-Off Tech H-1B Holders Are Staying in the US Legally

May 2, 2023
If you’ve paid attention to the immigration climate in the United States, you’ve heard about the massive layoffs in the tech sector. Many of these workers were H-1B visa holders who rely on steady employment to keep their legal status in the country. Per the H-1B visa’s terms, workers have 60 days to find another employer willing to sponsor their visa status, or they must return to their home country. But with so many people searching for work within similar industries, this is a challenging endeavor. However, a recent workaround may keep thousands of these laid-off tech workers in the US legally while they look for employment, even after their 60-day grace period ends by changing from an H-1B to a B-1 or B-2 visa.

Specialty Worker Visa Fees To Increase in 2023

April 27, 2023
Each year, hundreds of thousands of specialty workers enter the US or apply for new documents to stay in the country. These applications always have fees attached to them, but the government agency processing the documents, USCIS, is working outside of its budget. To offset rising costs and enhance the working conditions of each processing center, the US Department of State agreed to increase fees for specific nonimmigrant visa applications. 

The Differences Between an H-1B and a B-1 Visa

April 3, 2023
H-1B visa season is upon us. The complicated visa process is further complicated by the similarly named B-1 visa. If you're considering working in the United States as a foreign national, it's essential to understand the different types of visas available to you. The H-1B and B-1 visas have significant differences that can affect your stay in the US. This article will explain the key differences between the two visas to help you determine which is best for your situation.

Understanding the Changes in the H-1B Visa Reform Bill

January 11, 2023
Early in 2022, the Senate introduced legislation intended to reform the H-1B and L-1 visa programs and address certain drawbacks, particularly fraud and abuse, in both systems. 

Here is When the 60 Day H-1B Grace Period Starts

January 4, 2023
Entering the US under an H-1B visa can be an exciting step on your career journey. But what happens when you lose the job that provides your reason for being in the country? The good news is that, unlike popular myths, you have a grace period of 60 days to find a new job or another way to stay where you are. When does this grace period start, and how does it work? We have the information you need to know here in this short article.

Understanding the H-1B Visa Debate and What It Means for You

December 14, 2022
The H-1B visa program is essential to foreign workers and the US economy. Just as vital as it is complex, there have been debates surrounding this system since its implementation decades ago. What are the latest changes in these debates, and how might they affect you? Read on to find out.

Can Your Spouse or Children Work Under an H-1B Visa?

November 9, 2022
The highly coveted H-1B visa is yours, and you’re ready to begin the next phase of your career journey in the United States. With the H-1B visa, your spouse and children get to join you, but they also want a normal life in this foreign place. Many H-1B beneficiaries are concerned that their spouses and children won’t be allowed to work once in the US. If this is your concern, this guide answers your questions about spousal and dependent employment under an H-1B beneficiary.

Changing From OPT to an H-1B Visa Status

November 2, 2022
You have many benefits when you’re already in the United States as a foreign student under Optional Practical Training (OPT). But when your OPT is over, and you want to continue working in the country, how can you change your status to an H-1B visa? This short guide explains everything you need to know to move from OPT to an H-1B.
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