| VisaHQ | Immigration Lawyer |
|---|---|
| 35+ countries with work visa programs are available for pre-qualification | An Immigration attorney would normally specialize in 1 country |
| Compare your chances of getting all available work visa types to multiple countries and select the easiest path | Immigration attorney would only assist with 1 possible country |
| Up to 70 different visa types, scenarios, and special programs for each country are analyzed for possible matches | Immigration lawyers would usually specialize in 2-3 most profitable and streamlined schemes they choose to focus on |
| VisaHQ will present you with a clear path forward, list of specific requirements, filing fees, and processing times | Immigration lawyers would normally avoid the full transparency and bring you along one step at a time after you commit to the process |
| VisaHQ is fully transparent with all filing fees and service fees upfront | An immigration lawyer would normally charge by the hour and would add various fees along the way |
| 24/7 Support available via chat, phone, or email, regardless of what country you live in | Very few immigration lawyers provide continuing on demand support. Getting in touch may be challenging |
What type of work permit do I need to apply for to work in the United States from the United Kingdom?
The type of work permit you need depends on your employment situation. Common permits for UK citizens include H-1B for specialty occupations, L-1 for intra-company transferees, and O-1 for individuals with extraordinary abilities. Consider the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for.
What are the general eligibility requirements for obtaining a U.S. work permit?
To be eligible for a U.S. work permit, you generally need a job offer from a U.S. employer who will sponsor you, meet the qualifications for the specific visa category, and sometimes must have a labor certification confirming that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job.
How long does it take to process a work permit application from the UK to the US?
Processing times vary by visa type and other factors, but typically, it can take several months to process a work permit application. For example, H-1B applications can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on factors such as the USCIS workload and whether premium processing is chosen.
Can I apply for a work permit while I am still in the UK?
Yes, you can apply for a U.S. work permit while still in the UK. Once your application is approved, you will need to attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the UK to finalize the process before traveling to the U.S.
Do I need to provide any documentation to support my work permit application?
Yes, you’ll need to provide various documents such as your job offer letter, proof of qualifications or academic degrees, your resume, and potentially a labor certification. Additional documentation may be required based on the visa type.
What fees are associated with applying for a U.S. work permit?
While I can’t provide specific pricing info, there are costs associated with filing the application, which may include government fees and potential attorney fees if you choose to use legal assistance. Always check current official resources for updated fee structures.
What should I do if my work permit application is denied?
If your work permit application is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons for denial. You may have options to appeal the decision, file a motion to reopen or reconsider the case, or reapply, depending on the circumstances.
Can my family accompany me to the U.S. if I receive a work permit?
Yes, if you hold a work permit, your spouse and children may be eligible to apply for dependents’ visas. The specific type of visa will depend on your work permit category.
Is it possible to switch my visa status while in the United States?
Yes, it is possible to switch your visa status while in the U.S., but you must apply for a change of status and meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa category. It’s advisable to consult with legal experts in immigration to navigate this process.
Do I need to be in the United States to start my work permit application?
No, you do not need to be in the U.S. to start your work permit application. You can initiate the application process from the UK, but you will typically need to be in the U.S. for the actual employment start date, as per visa regulations.