Employment Visas and More

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    • B-1 Nonimmigrants

    • U.S. Student visas

    • Travel to the U.S.

    • Getting started as a student

    • Maintaining your legal status

    • Working while in school 

    • Travel outside the U.S. 

    • Graduation and beyond 

    • Employment visas and more

    • Common problems

NON-IMMIGRANT (TEMPORARY) VISAS

B-1 nonimmigrants

The B visa is for visitors to the U.S for business purposes, but, with no employment or compensation allowed. There are two types of visitors; the first type is a business visitor, known as B-1, and the second is a visitor for pleasure, known as B-2. For immigration purposes, the terms “visitor” and “B1/B2” are essentially the same.

  • What is business?

  • What is pleasure?

  • What are the eligibility requirements for a B visa?

  • What is a B nonimmigrant?

  • Is study in the U.S. allowed? 

  • I came to the U.S. as a B visitor. How can I enroll in school? 

  • Can I take nonacademic classes?

  • What is an ESTA Waiver?

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What is business?

The definition of business allows for many activities, but it does not allow you to work in the U.S. for a U.S. employer. A business visitor may conduct certain business-related activities for a foreign employer.  These activities include attending business meetings, making investments, signing contracts, litigating, buying or selling property, taking orders for goods to be produced outside the U.S., attending professional conferences, or public speaking. There are some additional activities that may qualify as business, but these are unique and limited, and likely not applicable. 

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H-1B nonimmigrants

An H-1B nonimmigrant is someone who is coming to the U.S. to work in what is known as a specialty occupation. This means that to become an H-1B, the occupation itself must meet certain requirements. Generally speaking, a specialty occupation is a job that requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a specific field. A specialty occupation also requires “theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge.” Some common H-1B jobs are engineers and computer scientists, but there are many jobs that would qualify for an H-1B sponsorship.  

  • What is an H-1B Nonimmigrant?

  • Are there requirements that apply to the specific position?

  • What are the requirements that apply to me? 

  • Is there an annual limit on H-1Bs? 

  • Can I change jobs as an H-1B?

  • How do I apply for H-1B status?

  • How long can I stay as an H-1B?

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U.S. immigration regulations are rapidly changing. Immigration rules can change quickly, and what is accurate today may not be true tomorrow. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific immigration questions or complex situations, consult with a qualified immigration attorney.