Life in the U.S. for Temporary Work Visa Holders and Families
Initially, the primary holder of a work-based visa to the U.S. usually has a clear task: to do a job, often for the employer who petitioned for him or her. But questions often arise later, around renewals or whether the person can go on to receive a green card. And for the accompanying husband and wife or children of the visa holder, what to do while in the U.S. can be less clear, and is sometimes restricted by the terms of their visas. This page explores the possibilities for nonimmigrant visa holders living in the U.S. and their families.
Applying for a temporary work visa in the U.S. can, in some cases, offer a way to create a relationship with an employer who will sponsor you to stay permanently.
If you’ve been working in the U.S. under a temporary visa and would like to vacation here after your job ends and before your return to your home abroad or join another organization, here are likely timelines.
Your work visa allows you to work in the U.S.—but you will also need a Social Security number in order to get paid.
Whether you’re an H-1B worker or a U.S. worker in a workplace that also hires H-1Bs, you’ll want to understand the various ways employers can illegally take advantage of the H-1B system.
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