Los Angeles

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Work Permits and Visas

Information on obtaining work authorization for employment in Los Angeles, especially for immigrants and visitors.

Sections

1. Overview of Work Permits and Visas in the U.S.

In the United States, work authorization is typically tied to specific visa categories or employment authorization documents (EADs). Los Angeles, being a major hub for immigrants and international workers, has a variety of resources to assist applicants. Work permits and visas are issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a federal agency.

2. Types of Work Visas

Work visas are divided into two main categories: non-immigrant visas (temporary) and immigrant visas (permanent). Below are the most common types relevant to Los Angeles:

A. Non-Immigrant Work Visas (Temporary)

  1. H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)

    • Eligibility: Requires a job offer in a specialty occupation (e.g., IT, engineering, healthcare) and at least a bachelorโ€™s degree or equivalent.
    • Application Process:
      1. Employer files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor (DOL).
      2. Employer files Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with USCIS.
      3. Applicant applies for the visa at a U.S. consulate (if outside the U.S.).
    • Cost: $460 (Form I-129 filing fee) + employer fees (e.g., anti-fraud fee).
    • Processing Time: 2-6 months (premium processing available for $2,500).
    • Validity: Up to 3 years, extendable to 6 years.

  2. L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfers)

    • Eligibility: For employees transferring within the same company to a U.S. office.
    • Application Process: Employer files Form I-129 with USCIS.
    • Cost: $460 + employer fees.
    • Processing Time: 1-4 months (premium processing available).
    • Validity: 1-3 years, extendable up to 7 years.

  3. O-1 Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)

    • Eligibility: For individuals with exceptional skills in arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics.
    • Application Process: Employer or agent files Form I-129 with evidence of extraordinary ability.
    • Cost: $460 + premium processing (optional).
    • Processing Time: 2-3 months.
    • Validity: 1 year, renewable.

  4. H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers)

    • Eligibility: For seasonal or temporary non-agricultural work.
    • Application Process: Employer files Form I-129 after obtaining a temporary labor certification.
    • Cost: $460 + employer fees.
    • Processing Time: 2-4 months.
    • Validity: Up to 1 year, renewable.

  5. F-1 Visa (Student Visa with Optional Practical Training - OPT)

    • Eligibility: For students enrolled in U.S. institutions who wish to work temporarily in their field of study.
    • Application Process: Apply for OPT through the Designated School Official (DSO) and file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
    • Cost: $410 (Form I-765 fee).
    • Processing Time: 3-5 months.
    • Validity: 12 months (STEM graduates may extend for 24 months).

B. Immigrant Work Visas (Permanent)

  1. EB-2 Visa (Advanced Degree Professionals)

    • Eligibility: Requires a job offer and labor certification, or a National Interest Waiver (NIW).
    • Application Process: Employer files PERM labor certification and Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
    • Cost: $700 (Form I-140 fee).
    • Processing Time: 6-12 months.

  2. EB-3 Visa (Skilled Workers and Professionals)

    • Eligibility: Requires a job offer and labor certification.
    • Application Process: Same as EB-2.
    • Cost: $700 (Form I-140 fee).
    • Processing Time: 6-12 months.

  3. Green Card Through Employment

    • Eligibility: Based on employer sponsorship or self-petition (e.g., EB-1 for extraordinary ability).
    • Application Process: File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) after I-140 approval.
    • Cost: $1,140 (Form I-485 fee) + $85 biometrics fee.
    • Processing Time: 8-14 months.

3. Work Permits (Employment Authorization Document - EAD)

An EAD is required for certain visa holders or individuals adjusting their status.

  • Eligibility:
    • Pending green card applicants.
    • Asylum seekers.
    • DACA recipients.
    • Spouses of certain visa holders (e.g., H-4, L-2).
  • Application Process:
    1. File Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
    2. Submit supporting documents (e.g., visa status, pending application proof).
  • Cost: $410 + $85 biometrics fee (if applicable).
  • Processing Time: 2-6 months.
  • Validity: 1-2 years, renewable.

4. Where to Apply

  • Online: Many forms can be filed online via the USCIS website (https://www.uscis.gov).
  • Mail: Applications can be mailed to the appropriate USCIS lockbox or service center (check USCIS instructions for the specific form).
  • Local USCIS Office: The Los Angeles Field Office handles in-person services like interviews and biometrics. Address:
    • USCIS Los Angeles Field Office 300 N. Los Angeles Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

5. Costs

  • Visa application fees range from $160 (non-immigrant visas) to $700 (immigrant petitions).
  • Premium processing (optional) costs $2,500.
  • Additional costs may include legal fees, translation services, and travel expenses.

6. Processing Times

  • Processing times vary by visa type and workload at USCIS service centers. Check current times at the USCIS website: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/.

7. Local Resources in Los Angeles

  • Legal Aid:
    • Immigrant Defenders Law Center: Offers free or low-cost legal services.
    • Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA): Provides legal assistance and workshops.
  • Community Support:
    • Los Angeles Public Library: Hosts citizenship and immigration workshops.
    • California Immigrant Policy Center (CIPC): Advocacy and resources for immigrants.
  • Employment Services:
    • WorkSource Centers: Help with job placement and training for immigrants.

8. Tips for Navigating the Process

  1. Start Early: Visa and work permit applications can take months to process.
  2. Consult an Immigration Attorney: Especially for complex cases or employer-sponsored visas.
  3. Keep Copies of All Documents: Maintain a file of all forms, receipts, and correspondence.
  4. Check for Updates: Immigration policies can change frequently; stay informed via USCIS and local resources.
  5. Attend Workshops: Many organizations in Los Angeles offer free workshops to guide applicants.

By following this guide and utilizing the resources available in Los Angeles, you can navigate the work permit and visa process more effectively. Let me know if you need further assistance!