Apply for your H Visa with JAL LAW and Work Legally in the U.S.
The H visa is one of the main ways to work legally in the United States under an offer of employment. At JAL LAW, we guide you through the H visa application process with expert legal advice, ensuring you meet all program requirements.
What is the H visa and who is it for?
The H visa category includes several subcategories that allow foreign workers to perform temporary specialized or unskilled jobs in the U.S. The most common are:
H-1B visa:
For professionals in specialized occupations (such as engineers, programmers, doctors, architects, etc.) who have a job offer and, generally, a university degree.
H-2A visa:
For temporary agricultural workers hired by authorized employers in the U.S.
H-2B visa:
For non-agricultural workers (such as hospitality, construction, landscaping) in
sectors with high temporary demand.
H-3 Visa:
For individuals traveling to the U.S. to receive job training unavailable in their home country.
General Requirements to Apply for an H Visa
- Have a valid job offer from an employer in the U.S.
- Meet the eligibility criteria specific to the visa subcategory.
- Have the employer approve Form I-129 with USCIS.
- Have the required educational qualifications or professional experience, depending on the visa type.
- In some cases, demonstrate that there are no U.S. workers available for the position.
Benefits of the H Visa
Legal permission to work in the U.S.:
Authorizes you to work in a specific position with an authorized employer, temporarily and legally.
Possibility of extending your stay:
Depending on the visa type, you can request extensions. For example, the H-1B visa can be renewed for up to 6 years.
Access to international professional experience:
You can develop your career in the U.S. labor market, which can greatly strengthen your professional profile.
Option to bring your family:
Your spouse and children under 21 can accompany you on an H-4 visa. In some cases, they can even apply for work permits.
Step toward permanent residence (Green Card):
Some subcategories, such as the H-1B, can be a path to permanent residence through an employment petition.
Access to employment benefits:
You can receive a competitive salary, health insurance, paid leave, vacation time, and other employment benefits offered by your employer.
Change of employer or status:
With the proper process, you can change employers or even apply for adjustment of status within the U.S.
How can we help you at JAL LAW?
Step 1:
Personalized advice based on your profile and H visa type.
Step 2:
Preparation and submission of the petition to USCIS.
Step 3:
Review of documentation and employer requirements.
Step 4:
Visa application assistance at the consulate and interview preparation.
Step 5:
Legal defense in case of delays, RFEs, or denials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the H visa last?
It depends on the subcategory. For example, the H-1B visa is typically granted for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension.
Can I change employers with an H visa?
Yes, but a new petition must be filed with USCIS with the new employer.
Can my family accompany me to the US?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for the H-4 visa.
What are the processing times?
Processing times vary by category and consulate, but it can take between 2 and 6 months, depending on the case.
