Individuals who are entering the United States to work temporarily must first apply for a nonimmigrant temporary worker visa. This visa differs from a permanent worker visa, and the person with the visa must follow all the associated terms.
There are different visa categories, so applicants must choose the right one. Workers should also prepare for the entrance interview.
General information about the visas
According to the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, a temporary worker visa lasts for a specified period of time, and it is not a path to permanent residence. Examples of the types of visas include:
- Agricultural workers
- Entertainers
- Athletes
- Specialty occupations
- Intracompany transfers
How to apply
Before an individual can apply for a temporary worker visa, the employer must first file a petition on the worker’s behalf. In some categories, there is a limit as to the approval of petitions each year. Some employers must also obtain a labor certification. After approval of the petition, the worker can apply, via Form DS-160, for the appropriate visa.
Preparing for the interview
A part of the application process in an interview. The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic discusses that preparing for this scheduled interview improves the chance of visa approval. The main purpose of the interview is for applicants to prove that they plan on leaving the U.S. once the visa expires.
Applicants should expect to provide background information about the employment opportunity. They should also talk about family back home or other ties to their home country. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate they have the funds to pay for their stay in the United States.
