Visa Application Process For A Non-Immigrant Worker

Nonimmigrant Worker (H)

An H visa is issued to a nonimmigrant to allow travel for the purpose of temporary employment in the United States. To qualify for an H visa, the applicant must demonstrate that

• the prospective employer has filed and the USCIS has approved a petition (Form I-129) requesting H status for the applicant, and
• the applicant qualifies for the specified employment by showing proof of education and relevant work experience.

Beginning March 1, 2008 non-refundable application fee $131 is paid at the US Consulate cashier on the day of the visa interview.Please, bring the following to your interview:

• your passport (valid at least another 12 months)
• any old passports if you have previous US travel
• $131 non-refundable application fee.
• completed visa applications: DS-156 and DS-157
• 1 unmounted 5 x 5cm, full face photograph stapled or glued to the application form
• approved original I-797 form
• copy of I-129 originally filed in support of the petition
• any other supporting documents

It is also advised that all applicants bring to the interview a certified copy of the I-129 application material.

Applicants for the H visa are required to complete the application forms DS-156 and DS-157 online, then print them and bring to the interview. Both forms can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/forms/forms_1342.html

Nonimmigrant worker’s family (H4)

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 can receive H-4 visas to accompany the employee to the U.S. The application procedure is the same; the I-797 covers dependents.

Please present a copy of H1 approved petition I-797.

Please, note that the holder of an H-4 visa may not work on a derivative visa. If he or she is seeking employment, the appropriate work visa will be required.

You can find more detailed information on H type visas at the USCIS web-site