Navigating the costs associated with applying for a US work visa is a critical step for non-US nationals seeking employment opportunities in the United States. This guide provides an overview of the application fees and other associated costs for various types of US work visas.
US work visas are categorized into two main types: immigrant visas for permanent residency and nonimmigrant visas for temporary work purposes. Each visa type has its own set of eligibility requirements and application processes. Common nonimmigrant work visas include the L-1 visa for intracompany transfers, H-1B visa for highly skilled workers, I visa for members of the foreign press, and E-2 visa for investors and business owners.
The application fee varies depending on the visa category:
B Business/Tourist: $185
E Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty: $315
F Student (academic): $185
H Temporary/Seasonal Workers and Employment, Trainees: $205
O Persons with Extraordinary Ability: $205
L Intracompany Transferees: $205
For petition-based work visas, a US employer must file Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) on behalf of the applicant. The filing fees vary by visa category and are set to increase on April 1, 2024. For example, the H-1 visa filing fee for small employers and nonprofits is currently $460, increasing to $780 for all other employers.
E-Visas: The application fee for E-1 Treaty Trader or E-2 Treaty Investor visas is $205.
Visa Fee Exemptions: Certain applicants, such as diplomatic passport holders and employees of designated international organizations, are exempt from visa application fees.
Issuance Fees: Some countries' nationals must pay an issuance fee upon visa approval, based on reciprocity agreements.
Form I-129 Petitioning Costs: Costs vary by visa category and are subject to change. For example, the I-129 H-1 visa filing fee will increase from $460 to $780 for most employers.
Border Security Act Fee: Certain H-1B and L-1 petitioners must pay additional fees if they employ a significant number of employees in H-1B or L-1 status.
Asylum Program Fee: A new fee of $600 (or $300 for small employers) is payable for employers filing certain petitions, effective April 1, 2024.
Navigating the financial aspects of US work visa applications requires careful planning and awareness of all potential costs. For personalized assistance and guidance on visa applications, consulting with dedicated US immigration attorneys is recommended.
Prepared on the information from nnuimmigration.com