U.S. work visas: H-1B, L-1, O-1 and TN

Work visa requirements depend on the category, and most need a U.S. employer or agent to file for a job that fits it. H-1B needs a job requiring a related degree, L-1 one continuous year with a related company abroad, and O-1 3 of 8 criteria. Merit Law LLP attorneys review which fits.

Work visa USA cost has two parts: the USCIS petition fee and the visa fee. The visa fee is $205 for H-1B, L-1 and O-1 and $185 for TN. Form I-129 costs $780 on paper for H-1B and $1,055 for O-1, plus extra fees (October 2026). Merit Law LLP explains each line.

H-1B is for a degree-level job with a U.S. employer and falls under an annual cap. L-1 moves a manager or special-knowledge employee from a related company abroad and has no H-1B cap. H-1B reaches 6 years, L-1A 7, L-1B 5. An attorney compares them on your facts.

Work visa sponsorship means a U.S. employer files a petition for you, for a real job that fits the category. You cannot file an H-1B yourself, and an O-1 needs an employer, agent or company you own. The H-1B training fee, $1,500, is the employer's cost. Merit Law LLP reviews eligibility.

How long you can stay on a work visa depends on the category: H-1B 3 years at first and 6 in total, L-1A up to 7, L-1B up to 5, O-1 3 years then 1-year extensions, TN 3 years at a time with no fixed limit. An attorney reviews your dates.