Embassy of the United States

Non-Immigrant Visas

Temporary Employment (H/L/O/P) Visas

Anyone wishing to work in the United States, for even a short period, requires an appropriate work visa. 

All temporary work visas are for specific positions and require prearranged employment.  United States law does not contain any provision for informal working holidays.

Most people going to work temporarily in the United States apply for a work visa.  The first step to apply for such a visa is to locate an employer in the United States who requires your services and is willing to file a petition on your behalf with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). 

The Embassy cannot issue a work visa until it receives notification of an approved petition.  Petitions for temporary work visas are generally approved only for professionals whose skills are in short supply in the United States.

If you are the beneficiary of an approved petition, submit the original of the I-797, Notice of Action, together with your completed visa application.

More on temporary work in the U.S.

For information on temporary Religious workers in the U.S.

NOTE: For planning purposes, you cannot book an appointment more than one month in advance.

THE EMBASSY DOES NOT RECOMMEND MAKING FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS AND PURCHING TICKETS PRIOR TO VISA APPROVAL!

Visa Reciprocity Fees

Applicants from certain countries that charge U.S. citizens special fees for visas may be required to pay an additional visa issuance/reciprocity fee. Please note that this issuance fee, unlike the processing fee, is not to be paid in advance. If you qualify for the visa, you will be asked to pay the fee to the consular cashier after your interview. Applicants may consult the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Reciprocity Fee table for more information