签证 i129: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to U.S. work visas, the i129 is one of the most common forms used by foreign nationals and their potential employers. This guide will provide you with a thorough overview of the i129 application process, so you can be better prepared for what lies ahead.

What is the i129 Visa?

The i129 visa is an application form used by employers to request permission to hire a foreign national who is not already authorized to work in the United States. The i129 is used for a variety of visa categories, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, and TN. Once approved, the foreign national can legally work in the United States for a specified period of time.

Who is Eligible for the i129 Visa?

Generally speaking, foreign nationals with specialized skills and expertise are eligible for the i129 visa. The specific criteria for each visa category are different, but in most cases, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer, and the employer must demonstrate that they were unable to find a qualified U.S. worker for the position. It's important to note that there are also caps on the number of visas available each year, so it's important to begin the application process as soon as possible.

What Documents are Required for the i129 Visa?

The specific documents required for the i129 visa will vary depending on the visa category being applied for, but in general, applicants and their employers will need to provide the following:

A completed i129 form, along with any applicable supplement forms

A detailed job description and evidence of the foreign national's qualifications

Proof of the employer's financial ability to pay the foreign national's salary

Verification of the employer's tax status and other legal business requirements

Any additional documents required by the specific visa category in question

How Long Does the i129 Visa Application Process Take?

The i129 visa application process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete, depending on a variety of factors. These may include the specific visa category being applied for, the complexity of the case, and the caseload of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office handling the application. It's important to stay in regular contact with the USCIS and to address any issues or concerns promptly in order to avoid unnecessary delays.

What Happens After the i129 Visa is Approved?

Once the i129 visa is approved, the foreign national can begin the process of obtaining a U.S. work visa. This will involve submitting a separate application to the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, as well as attending an in-person visa interview. Once the visa is granted, the foreign national will be authorized to work in the United States for a specified period of time.

Overall, the i129 visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, but with the right preparation and attention to detail, it is possible to successfully obtain a U.S. work visa. By understanding the requirements and procedures involved, foreign nationals and their employers can work together to navigate this process and take advantage of all the opportunities that the U.S. has to offer.