Temporary visas to work, visit or study in the US
Nonimmigrant visas let you come to the United States for a specific purpose and period of time, whether to work, study, visit, invest or do business. Choosing the right one matters, because each visa limits what you can do in the US and affects your options for a green card later. Our immigration lawyer helps you choose the visa that fits both your plans today and your long-term goals.
Common nonimmigrant visas
| Visa | Purpose | Typical length |
|---|---|---|
| H-1B | Professional jobs requiring a degree | Up to 6 years |
| O-1 | People with extraordinary ability | Up to 3 years, renewable |
| TN | Canadian and Mexican professionals | Up to 3 years, renewable |
| B-1/B-2 | Business meetings, tourism, family visits | Usually up to 6 months per visit |
| F-1 | Full-time academic study | Length of studies |
| L-1 | Intracompany transfers | Up to 5 or 7 years |
| E-1 / E-2 | Treaty traders and investors | Renewable |
Planning ahead
Many clients start on a temporary visa and later move to a green card. Some visas allow this more easily than others. Some, like the H-1B and L-1, allow “dual intent”; others, like the B-2, F-1 and TN, require you to show you plan to return home. We help you choose a visa that fits both your immediate plans and your long-term goals.
Extensions and changes of status
Already in the US? We help with extending your stay, changing from one status to another (for example, F-1 to H-1B) and keeping your status valid while you plan your next step.
Talk to an immigration attorney
Book a Zoom consultation to find the right temporary visa for your plans.
This page is general information, not legal advice.