Introduction
Landing a job in the United States is a big career milestone. You get to enjoy better pay, global exposure, access to companies shaping the future of work etc. But before you can start earning legally in the U.S., there is one critical step you cannot skip: securing the right U.S. work visa.
If you have ever searched how to apply for a work visa, how to get a work visa, or how to obtain a work visa, you already know how confusing the process can feel. Different visa types. Employer sponsorship rules. Paperwork. Timelines.
This guide breaks it all down for 2026.
We will walk you through the difference between a U.S. work visa and a work permit, the main types of U.S. work visas, and exactly how to apply. We will also show how Cleva helps you manage your money smoothly once you start earning in dollars, whether you are getting paid by a U.S. employer or withdrawing freelance income from platforms like Upwork.
Difference between a U.S. work visa and a work permit
A U.S. work visa and a work permit both allow foreign nationals to work in the United States, but they are not the same thing.
U.S. work visa
A work visa is issued before you enter the United States. It is usually tied to a specific job offer and employer, meaning you can only work in the role approved in your visa application.
U.S. work permit
A work permit, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is typically issued to people who are already in the U.S. under a qualifying immigration status. It offers more flexibility but depends on your current status.
In this article, we focus on how to apply for a U.S. work visa from outside the country.
Types of U.S. work visas
U.S. work visas are broadly grouped into two categories:
- Temporary (non immigrant) work visas
- Permanent (immigrant) work visas
Temporary U.S. work visas
Temporary work visas allow you to live and work in the U.S. for a fixed period. Extensions may be possible, depending on the visa type and approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Some common temporary U.S. work visas include:
1. H 1B visa
Designed for professionals in specialty occupations such as software engineering, data analysis, healthcare, finance, and engineering. This is one of the most competitive U.S. work visas and often serves as a pathway to permanent residency.
2. L 1 visa
For employees being transferred from a foreign office to a U.S. branch of the same company. Applicants must usually have worked with the company for at least one continuous year in the past three years.
3. O 1 visa
For individuals with extraordinary ability in fields like science, arts, education, business, or athletics. Applicants must provide strong evidence such as awards, media recognition, or expert recommendations.
4. TN visa
Available only to Canadian and Mexican professionals under trade agreements. It covers specific professions such as engineers, accountants, designers, scientists, and lawyers.
Permanent U.S. work visas
Permanent work visas, also known as immigrant visas or green cards, allow you to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.
Common categories include:
1. EB 1
For individuals with extraordinary ability who have reached the top of their field.
2. EB 2
For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability that benefits the U.S.
3. EB 3
For skilled workers, professionals with a bachelor’s degree, and certain unskilled workers.
4. EB 4
For special immigrant categories such as religious workers and certain international organization employees.
5. EB 5
For investors who make qualifying investments in U.S. businesses that create jobs.
How to apply for a U.S. work visa in 2026
The application process depends on whether you are applying for a temporary or permanent work visa.
How to apply for a temporary U.S. work visa
If you are wondering how to apply for a work visa for a temporary role, here are the key steps:
- Secure a job offer from a U.S. employer
The employer must be willing to sponsor your visa. - Employer files a petition with USCIS
Your employer submits the required petition on your behalf. - Receive Form I 797 approval notice
Once approved, USCIS issues a Notice of Action. - Complete Form DS 160 online
This is the standard non immigrant visa application form. - Prepare your documents
This typically includes your passport, job offer letter, academic credentials, and approval notices. - Schedule and attend your visa interview
Interviews take place at a U.S. embassy or consulate. - Wait for visa processing and approval
Processing times vary by visa category and location.
How to apply for a permanent U.S. work visa
Permanent work visas involve a longer and more detailed process:
- Employer obtains labour certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, where required.
- Employer files an immigrant petition with USCIS.
- A priority date is assigned to your application.
- You wait for visa availability based on your category and country of origin.
- File Form I 485 to adjust status or complete consular processing.
- Receive approval and become a lawful permanent resident.
Managing your money while working in the U.S. with Cleva
Getting a U.S. work visa is just one part of your journey. Managing your income efficiently matters just as much.
With Cleva, you can receive and manage USD payments without the usual stress of high fees or poor exchange rates.
- Zero fees on Upwork withdrawals when you withdraw directly to your Cleva USD account.
- Lower ACH transfer fees, starting from just $1 and capped at $3.
- USD accounts built for global professionals, freelancers, and remote workers.
- Fast access to your earnings, so you can spend, save, or convert when you need to.
Whether you are relocating for work or earning remotely from U.S. companies, Cleva helps you keep more of your money.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get a U.S. work visa can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes clearer when you know your options and follow the right steps.
Once your visa is approved and you start earning in dollars, Cleva makes it easy to receive, manage, and move your money with fewer fees and more control.
Ready to get started? Create your Cleva account and set yourself up for a smoother U.S. work experience in 2026.
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