Temporary Work Visa
Chicago Temporary Visa Lawyer
How Do I Get a Temporary Worker Visa?
If you wish to enter the United States from another country to work a temporary job, you need to obtain a temporary worker visa. This type of visa is also known as a nonimmigrant work visa.
A wide variety of temporary worker visas are available, depending on your specific circumstances. Differentiating between the different types can seem daunting, and it’s wise to consult an attorney who is experienced in immigration law to help you navigate the process.
Different Types of Temporary Worker Visas
To obtain a temporary work visa, the U.S. employer you intend to work for must petition U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Having this petition approved is necessary before you can initiate the process of applying for any type of temporary worker visa.
You can explore the various types of temporary worker visas on the U.S. Department of State website.
Possible Additional Steps or Obstacles
Acquire Labor Certification
Some temporary work visas may require your expected employer to obtain a labor certification from the Department of Labor. This certification would need to be granted before filing the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, with USCIS.
Await Petition Approval
Be aware that some temporary worker visa categories are limited in the total number of petitions that can be approved annually — if the quota for the particular type of visa you’re applying for has been reached for the year, your petition may not be authorized.
If your petition is approved, your anticipated employer will receive a Notice of Action, Form I-797 from USCIS.
How Do I Apply for a Visa?
After the USCIS approves the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129), you can apply for a visa. It’s a good idea to consult the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you intend to apply for a clearer understanding of what the process will look like, but generally, the process follows certain guidelines.
Where Can I Apply for a Visa in Chicago?
Using the official U.S. Embassy website, you can find an embassy or consulate near you.
The Process for Applying for a Visa
- Fill out Form DS-160 online.
- Be sure to have a photo that meets the visa photograph requirements to upload.
- Print the completed form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
Schedule an Interview
- Check with the embassy or consulate where you intend to apply to confirm that an interview is required.
- Generally, interviews are required for individuals between 14 and 79 years old.
- Strive to apply for your visa early, as wait times for interview appointments can be longer at certain locations.
Get Ready for Your Interview
- Read the instructions for interview preparation on the website of the embassy or consulate where you’ll apply.
- Pay fees (A non-refundable visa application fee may be required. You may also have to pay the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and Border Security Act fee.)
Collect Required Documentation
- Passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your time in the U.S.)
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page
- Application fee payment receipt
- Photo (that was required for DS-160)
- Receipt number for your approved petition (You can find this on your completed Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797.)
- L Visa Applicants (L Visa applicants must bring Form I-129A, Nonimmigrant Petition Based on Blanket L Petition.)
- Proof of ties to your home country to show that you plan to return there after your temporary stay in the U.S. (You can show documents that attest to a residence in your home country, familial ties, finances, or future plans.)
Attend interview
- A consular officer will decide if you meet the requirements to receive a visa.
- Digital fingerprint scans will be taken.
- You’ll be notified if further administrative processing is needed in your application process.
- Using the U.S. Department of State website, check visa processing times.
Contact us online or call (888) 474-8048 to speak with our Chicago temporary work visa attorneys at Ray Law International.
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The attorneys at Ray Law International are committed to providing clients in the United States and abroad with effective, innovative immigration solutions. We find fulfillment in advocating for our clients by helping them understand the immigration process and reach their goals. We offer services in English, Spanish, and Japanese.