United States Imigration Law

United States Imigration Law

US immigration law is arguably the most complex in the World with fifty-three different types of non-immigrant visas and a number of ways of gaining permanent residence (the "Green Card"). For many people it is a difficult and lengthy process gaining a "Green Card" on an initial basis. It is frequently far better to apply for one of the non-immigrant visas and then apply for an adjustment of status to "lawful permanent residence".

I do not propose to cover every conceivable type of visa available but to try and cover the more common types.
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WORK RELATED NON-IMMIGRANT VISAS

The H Non-Immigrant Visas

There is the H-1B visa for a "specialty occupation" as a "specialist knowledge worker". This is normally for someone who is a graduate or graduate equivalent and allows entry into the US for up to six years to work for a company in the US. The question of "graduate equivalent" is much misunderstood as there are many non-graduates with a properly documented case who may be able enter the US on this basis.

It is an indication of the demand for professionally trained nurses in the US that there is even a particular visa, the H-1A to cover this. The general requirements are that you should have a "license" or equivalent to practise and are fully qualified to engage in your intended employment.

The H-2B visa allows entry for both skilled or unskilled works. The main require...

United States Imigration Law

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