The USA offers several types of work visas, with the H-1B visa being one of the most common for skilled workers. Eligibility criteria for the H-1B visa include:
Job Offer: A valid job offer from a U.S. employer for a specialty occupation.
Education: A bachelor’s degree or higher in the relevant field of work.
Employer Sponsorship: The employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor and then submit Form I-129 to USCIS.
Application Process
Secure Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer.
LCA Filing: The employer files an LCA with the Department of Labor.
Petition Filing: The employer files Form I-129 with USCIS.
Wait for Approval: Once USCIS approves the petition, they issue Form I-797.
Apply for Visa: The employee applies for the visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate and attends an interview.
Duration and Conditions
Duration: The H-1B visa is typically valid for up to three years, extendable to a maximum of six years.
Work Permission: Authorized to work for the sponsoring employer only.
Extensions and Transitions: Possible to extend or transition to permanent residency under certain conditions.
UK Work Visa
Eligibility Criteria
The UK offers the Skilled Worker visa (previously Tier 2 General) for skilled workers. Eligibility criteria include:
Job Offer: A job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship license.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): A CoS from the employer.
Skill Level: The job must meet the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above).
Salary: The salary must meet the minimum threshold (usually £25,600 or the going rate for the job).
Application Process
Secure Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
Get CoS: The employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Prepare Documents: Gather required documents, including CoS, proof of English proficiency, and financial evidence.
Apply Online: Submit the visa application online and pay the fee.
Biometric Appointment: Provide biometric information.
Decision: Wait for the visa decision, typically within three weeks.
Duration and Conditions
Duration: The Skilled Worker visa is typically granted for up to five years.
Work Permission: Work for the sponsoring employer, with some ability to change jobs under certain conditions.
Path to Settlement: Eligible for indefinite leave to remain after five years.
Canada Work Visa
Eligibility Criteria
Canada offers various work permits, with the most common being the employer-specific work permit. Eligibility criteria include:
Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): An LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), unless exempt.
Qualifications: Relevant qualifications and experience for the job.
Application Process
Secure Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer.
LMIA: The employer applies for an LMIA, if required.
Work Permit Application: Apply for the work permit online or at a visa application center, providing the job offer, LMIA, and other necessary documents.
Biometrics: Provide biometric information.
Decision: Wait for the work permit decision.
Duration and Conditions
Duration: Typically up to two years, depending on the job offer and LMIA.
Work Permission: Authorized to work for the employer specified in the permit.
Extensions and Permanent Residency: Possibility to extend the work permit and apply for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.
Australia Work Visa
Eligibility Criteria
Australia offers the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) for skilled workers. Eligibility criteria include:
Job Offer: A job offer from an approved Australian sponsor.
Skill Level: Meet the skill requirements for the occupation.
English Proficiency: Demonstrate English language proficiency.
Health and Character Requirements: Meet health and character requirements.
Application Process
Secure Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from an approved Australian sponsor.
Nomination: The employer submits a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Visa Application: Apply for the visa online, providing necessary documents such as job offer, proof of skills, and English proficiency.
Biometrics and Health Check: Provide biometric information and complete a health check if required.
Decision: Wait for the visa decision.
Duration and Conditions
Duration: The TSS visa can be granted for up to four years, depending on the occupation.
Work Permission: Work for the sponsoring employer.
Path to Permanent Residency: Eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
