The United States remains one of the top destinations for Indian professionals seeking job opportunities. Working in the US is particularly popular among Indians, as it often leads to permanent residency over time. However, securing a job in the US requires a valid work visa. Among the various visa options, the H-1B is the most sought-after, as it enables professionals to work in top companies across IT, healthcare, and finance sectors.
The Challenge Of Securing A US Work Visa
Obtaining a US work visa is not that easy. The primary requirement is to secure a job offer from a company in the United States. Without a job offer, working in the US is not permitted. Moreover, the number of companies offering sponsorships is limited, making it difficult for many applicants to qualify.
However, there are certain visa categories that allow individuals to work in the US without needing a job offer or employer sponsorship.
Here are two such options:
EB-2 NIW Visa (National Interest Waiver)
The EB-2 NIW visa is an employment-based visa that does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship. It is designed for individuals with advanced degrees (such as a master's or PhD) or exceptional abilities in fields that serve the national interest of the United States.
Those eligible for the EB-2 NIW visa can legally reside in the US as permanent residents. This visa is commonly granted to professionals in science, arts, and business, whose work significantly benefits the country. Scientists, professors, and athletes often qualify for this visa due to their contributions in their respective fields.
O-1 Visa
The O-1 visa is another option that allows individuals to work in the US without a job offer from a single employer. It permits visa holders to bring their families and work for multiple employers or even be self-employed.
The O-1 visa is divided into two categories:
O-1A: For business owners, engineers, healthcare professionals, athletes, researchers, and professors.
O-1B: For individuals in creative fields, including fashion designers, costume designers, actors, cinematographers, directors, and producers.
This visa is granted to individuals with exceptional abilities in their fields. For example, if a scientist has made a new discovery, an athlete has broken a record, or a filmmaker has created a noteworthy project, they may qualify for an O-1 visa.
