Temporary visa to work in the U.S.

Find out if you qualify for a temporary work visa

There are many temporary worker visa classifications. These include H-1B for specialized occupations and H-2A for seasonal agriculture work. The amount of time you can work temporarily in the U.S. depends on the visa you qualify for. 

Before you apply for any of these visas, your prospective employer must first file a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. After your employer’s petition is approved, you will be able to apply for a temporary work visa.

Find information about temporary worker visas. Learn about the professions that qualify for the different classifications.

How to sponsor a temporary worker

To hire a temporary (nonimmigrant) worker, you generally have to file a petition with USCIS to allow the employee to come to the U.S.

• Use this temporary (nonimmigrant) worker classification table. Align the classification that applies to the job you are offering.
• After determining the classification, refer to the Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker page. It lists the classifications that require employers to submit the form to USCIS.