You can explore America and take in its rich cultural diversity by entering the country with a tourist visa (B-2 visa). You will need to switch your tourist visa to a work visa, though, if you wish to remain longer and work in the country.
You will understand this process with the help of these instructions.
How to Transition from a Tourist Visa to a Work Visa in the USA?
It is necessary to be aware that switching from a tourist visa to a work visa is not an easy process before starting the whole thing.
Strict guidelines are in place from the US government to make sure that visitors do not misuse their visas. But it is possible if you plan ahead and take the right strategy.
Step 1: Know the Types of Work Visas
In the United States, there are different types of work visas available.
Among the most typical ones are,
- H-1B Visa
For workers in specialty occupations that require a higher education degree.
- L-1 Visa
For those who have transferred within the company but hold managerial positions or have specialized knowledge
- O Visa
For people who show exceptional talent or success in their field.
- E-2 Visa
For entrepreneurs and investors from treaty countries
Every visa has its own set of rules and conditions. Choose the one that best suits your needs after doing some research.
us tourist visa application form – CLICK HERE
Step 2: Find a Job
You require a job offer from an American employer to convert a tourist visa to a work visa.
This is the method to follow,
1. Update Your Resume
- Make sure the experiences and skills you have listed on your resume are important to the position you are applying for.
2. Apply for Jobs
- To locate job openings, use company websites, networking sites like LinkedIn, and job search engines.
3. Prepare for Interviews
- Prepare a brief, professional explanation of your circumstances.
Jobs in USA with visa sponsorship – CLICK HERE
Step 3: Employer Sponsorship
Your employer has to agree to sponsor your work visa after you receive an offer of employment.
This suggested that they would manage the application procedure and pay for specific costs.
What they should do is as follows,
1. Labor Condition Application (LCA)
- Employers who wish to sponsor you on an H-1B visa must verify they will pay you the prevailing wage by submitting an LCA to the Department of Labor.
2. Petition Filing
- The petition (Form I-129) will be submitted by the employer to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Read: How do you qualify for a US tourist visa?
Step 4: Change of Status
You can apply to convert from a tourist visa to a work visa while you are already in the country without having to leave.
Here is how to do it,
- File Form I-539
To request a status change, use this form.
Add all required supporting documentation, including the notice of your employer’s receipt of the petition and the letter offering you the job.
- Wait for Approval
Expect to wait as the processing time varies.
While you wait, you have to keep your current visa status.
Check Your Eligibility to File Form I-539 – CLICK HERE
Step 5: Transition to Work Visa
You will receive a new Form I-94 indicating your new visa status once your change of status has been approved.
The following are some last actions,
- Upon approval of your work visa, you can begin working.
- If you want to stay out of trouble, make sure you follow every requirement of your work visa.
Important Tips
1. Stay Legal
- When in the United States, always keep your legal status.
- If you overstay your tourist visa, there could be serious consequences.
2. Consult an Immigration Lawyer
- Handling visa adjustments can be difficult.
- An immigration attorney can guarantee that all documentation is filed correctly and offer helpful advice.
Top 10 immigration lawyers in USA – CLICK HERE
Bottom Line
In the USA, changing from a tourist visa to a work visa is a complicated procedure that calls for planning and perseverance.
You can improve your chances of making the transfer and beginning your new career in the US by paying attention to the instructions provided here and keeping yourself informed.
