step-by-step process for applying to work in the U.S. under visas related to skill shortage opportunities, especially for high-demand sectors like IT, healthcare, education, and hospitality.
Understand the Right Visa for You
There are different visa types depending on your skills and the job you’re applying for:
- H-1B Visa – For specialized workers (like engineers, IT professionals, finance experts, etc.)
- O-1 Visa – For individuals with exceptional achievements (in sciences, arts, business, etc.)
- EB-3 Visa – For skilled workers, professionals, and some unskilled positions (permanent residency route)
Find a U.S. Employer Willing to Sponsor You
You can’t apply for most U.S. work visas by yourself. You need a U.S. company to:
- Offer you a job
- Agree to sponsor your visa application
This step usually includes:
- Submitting your resume
- Doing job interviews (often online)
- Getting a formal job offer letter
Employer Applies for Labor Certification (if needed)
For some visa types (like the EB-3), the employer must get permission from the U.S. Department of Labor to hire a foreign worker. This process shows:
- No qualified U.S. worker is available for the job
- Hiring you won’t negatively affect local workers’ wages
This is done through a process called PERM Labor Certification.
Employer Files a Petition with USCIS
Once the employer gets approval, or if it’s not needed (like for H-1B or O-1):
- The employer files a visa petition on your behalf
H-1B and O-1 use Form I-129
EB-3 uses Form I-140
This includes details like:
- Your job role
- Your qualifications
- Salary offered
- Employer’s business info
Wait for Petition Approval
After filing, USCIS will:
- Review the petition
- Approve or reject it
If approved, they issue Form I-797 (Notice of Approval)
This is an important document for your visa application.
Apply for a U.S. Visa in Your Home Country
Now, you can apply for a visa at your local U.S. embassy or consulate. You’ll need to:
- Complete the DS-160 online form
- Pay the visa application fee
- Book an appointment for an interview
- Gather required documents:
- Job offer letter
- Form I-797
- Valid passport
- Academic/work qualifications
- Any other documents requested
Attend Your Visa Interview
At the U.S. embassy/consulate:
- You’ll be asked about your job, experience, and intentions
- You may need to provide fingerprints
- They will review your documents
- The officer will decide if you’re eligible for the visa.
Receive Your Visa and Travel to the U.S.
If approved:
- Your passport will be returned with the U.S. visa stamp
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