Applying for a U.S. work visa in 2025 is a multi-stage process involving both the employer and the foreign worker. The procedure can vary depending on whether you're applying for a temporary (nonimmigrant) visa (e.g. H-1B, L-1, O-1, H-2B) or an employment-based immigrant (green card) route. Below is a detailed, up-to-date, step-by-step walkthrough tailored for October 2025.
Note: Always check official U.S. government sources (USCIS, U.S. Department of State) for the latest changes, especially because immigration policies can shift in new administrations.
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High-Level Overview: Temporary vs. Permanent Work Visas
| Type | Purpose | Key Features | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary / Nonimmigrant | Work for a specific employer for a limited time | Employer sponsors petition (I-129), then visa interview overseas | H-1B, L-1, O-1, H-2B, etc. |
| Employment-Based Immigrant | Work + eventual permanent residency | Employer may file labor certification + I-140; applicant may adjust status or consular apply | EB-2, EB-3, etc. |
In many cases, applicants begin with a nonimmigrant visa and later transition to the employment-based immigrant route if eligible.
Step-by-Step Process (Nonimmigrant Work Visa Route)
Below is a general process. Some individual visa categories (H-1B, L, O, etc.) may have additional or modified steps.
Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Category
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Evaluate your qualifications (education, experience, specialty skill) and job offer type.
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Common nonimmigrant work visas include:
• H-1B (specialty occupations)
• L-1 (intra-company transfer)
• O-1 (extraordinary ability)
• H-2B (non-agricultural temporary workers)
• Others depending on trade treaties, etc. Shorelight Step 2: Secure a Job Offer & Selective Sponsorship
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You must have an employer in the U.S. willing to sponsor you.
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The employer must agree to file required petition(s) and bear some responsibilities.
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Ensure the job offer is genuine, full-time (if required), and aligns with visa criteria.
Step 3: Employer Files the Petition with USCIS
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For nonimmigrant work visas, the U.S. employer usually files Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) on your behalf. Travel.state.gov
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For visas like H-1B, the employer must also obtain a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the Department of Labor, attesting to wage and working conditions.
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Some categories may require other supporting documents (e.g. proof of extraordinary ability, credentials, contracts) depending on visa class (e.g. O-1) DAAD Scholarships 2026
Step 4: USCIS Processing & Approval
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USCIS will review your petition. If additional evidence is needed, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
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Upon approval, you receive Form I-797 (Notice of Action / Approval Notice).
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The employer may optionally pay for premium processing, which accelerates adjudication.
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Processing times vary by visa type, USCIS service center, and workload.
Step 5: Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)
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After USCIS approves the petition, you must fill out Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application). USAGov
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Upload your photograph and other basic biographical details.
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Pay the visa application fee (consular processing fee).
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Some jurisdictions may also impose an integrity fee or additional surcharge starting October 2025. (Check local consulate guidance.)
Step 6: Schedule & Attend Interview at U.S. Embassy / Consulate
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After DS-160 submission, schedule a visa interview at the U.S. consulate in your home country or country of legal residence.
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Required documents typically include:
• Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond intended U.S. stay)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Appointment letter
• Form I-797 approval notice
• Job offer letter / employment contract
• Educational certificates, transcripts
• Resume / CV, work experience letters
• Any supporting evidence (extra awards, professional memberships, publications, etc.)
• Proof of visa fee payment
• Photographs per consular specifications -
Attend the interview, answer questions truthfully about your job, employer, background, and intent.
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Some applicants may qualify for Interview Waiver / Dropbox in certain cases. Wikipedia
Step 7: Visa Decision, Issuance & Travel
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If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker.
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Review visa for correct dates, visa class, and validity period.
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Travel to the U.S. and present documents to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at port of entry.
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Admittance is at the discretion of the CBP officer.
If Pursuing Employment-Based Immigrant (Green Card) Route
If your long-term goal is permanent residency, here’s a high-level path:
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Labor Certification (PERM) (if required): Employer may file for labor certification with U.S. Department of Labor, showing no qualified U.S. workers are available. USAGov
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Immigrant Petition (Form I-140): Employer files I-140 with USCIS on your behalf. Travel.state.gov
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Visa Bulletin / Priority Date: Wait for your priority date to become “current” as shown in the Visa Bulletin. Travel.state.gov+2USAGov+2
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Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing:
• If already in U.S. in a valid status, you may file Form I-485 to adjust status.
• Otherwise, you apply via a U.S. consulate (immigrant visa processing). -
Receive Green Card: Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident.
Key Tips & 2025 Updates to Watch
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New H-1B Fee: In September 2025, a presidential proclamation introduced a one-time $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions filed between September 21, 2025 and September 21, 2026.
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Integrity / Security Fees: Some consulates may begin requiring additional integrity or security fees for visa applications in late 2025.
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Consular District Rule Change: Starting November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa applicants will be scheduled for interview in the consular district of their country of residence (or nationality). Travel.state.gov
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Nonimmigrant Applicants: As of September 6, 2025, nonimmigrant visa applicants must schedule their interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence or nationality, with few exceptions.
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Stay Informed: USCIS and the Department of State periodically issue changes to eligibility criteria, fees, processing rules, and quotas.
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