Visas for Work in the United States
(H, L, O, P, Q Visas)

H. L, O, P, and Q visas entitle the holder to work in the United States. All require the company or other organization in the United States to first submit a petition to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) for permission to hire a foreign worker. If the petition is approved, the company will be issued a form I-797 enabling you to apply for a visa.

"H" VISA: The H visa is intended for temporary employment in the United States.

• Petitions must first be approved by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) in the United States.
• Applicant shall not apply for a visa until he/she has received the approved original I-797 and a certified copy of I-129.
• If the applicant adjusted status within the United States, the applicant must bring the original I-797 to the interview.
• It is also advised that all applicants bring to the interview a certified copy of the I-129 application material.

"L" VISA: The L visa is intended for individuals who are being transferred from their company in China to a branch or related company in the United States. Applicants must intend to fill a managerial or executive position, or have specialized knowledge, and have been continuously employed by the same employer or a related company for one year within the three years immediately preceding the visa application. In addition to the RMB 830 nonimmigrant visa processing fee, there is an additional RMB 996 ($ 120) visa issuance fee.

• Petitions must first be approved by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) in the United States.
• Applicant shall not apply for a visa until he/she has received the approved original I-797 and a certified copy of I-129.
• If the applicant adjusted status within the United States, the applicant must bring the original I-797 to the interview.
• It is also advised that all applicants bring to the interview a certified copy of the I-129 application material.

"O","P" or "Q" VISA: These visas are for performers or trade workers possessing unusual or extraordinary skills who plan to perform, teach, coach, or participate in cultural exchange in the United States.

For additional information please visit the Department of State's web site at www.travel.state.gov or contact the Visa Information Call Center. People calling from within China may dial toll free number 4008-872-333 or Shanghai local phone (021) 3881-4611 while those calling from overseas should dial (86-21) 3881-4611. Please note that charges for domestic or international long-distance calls are solely the responsibility of the caller. Press here for more detailed information on the Visa Information Call Center.