VISANOW Encourages Employers to Get an Early Start When Exploring H-1B Alternatives

As the April 1st deadline for H-1B visa applications approaches, VISANOW, the industry leading immigration solution provider, encourages employers to get an early start exploring all possible visa options when hiring foreign nationals.

In 2007, more than twice as many applications for the 65,000 available visas were received on the first day of filing ñ a clear indication that the allocated H-1B visa supply doesnít nearly meet its demand. Employers are urged to consider alternatives when hiring foreign nationals to avoid unnecessary visa processing issues. A number of options are available depending on the specific situation and company, and many of these visas are processed faster and without the limitations of the H-1B cap. By taking time now to explore alternatives, companies can pre-determine the best method for hiring foreign nationals as part of their workforce and be best positioned to bring them on seamlessly.

ìMany employers do not realize that there are a number of viable options to consider when hiring foreign workers,î said Robert Meltzer, CEO of VISANOW. ìCompanies can get ahead of the game by exploring alternatives to the H-1B before the deadline, allowing for a smoother immigration process for both the company and the foreign national.î

H-1B Alternatives:

TN Category Visa: Based on the North American Free Trade Agreement this visa is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens coming to the U.S. to perform professional activities. The TN visa has a one year term, but can be renewed indefinitely. There is no cap on the number of TN visas allotted.

L Category Visa: Similar to the H-1B, the L-1 visa allows companies to hire foreign employees on a temporary basis with the ability to provide permanent residency. The L-1 visa is available if a company is affiliated with a foreign operation, in which a foreign national is coming to the U.S. for a managerial or executive level position. To be eligible workers must have worked for the foreign company for at least one of the last three years.

O Category Visa: Visas in this category are used for business and science professionals that exhibit extraordinary ability. The initial visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely for up to one year each time it is renewed.

E Category Visa: Created for foreign workers from countries that signed the Friendship, Commerce, Navigation (FCN) treaty with the U.S. The E-2 visa is available to nationals of FCN treaty countries that have made a significant investment within the United States. The E-3 visa is specifically for Australians who intend on working in the U.S, temporarily in a specialty occupation. E category visas are valid for two years and can be renewed indefinitely.