Temporary worker visa (H/L/O/P): Indian citizen in India → United States
Indian citizens coming to work temporarily in the US need a temporary worker visa — your prospective employer must first file and get USCIS approval of a Form I-129 petition, then you complete the DS-160 and attend an interview at the US embassy or consulate where you live.
US nonimmigrant temporary worker visa (including H, L, O and P categories) for foreign citizens coming to work in the United States, based on an employer petition approved by USCIS.
- Validity
- Validity is set by your nationality's reciprocity schedule and by the temporary worker category and the period authorized on your approved petition.
- Entries
- Single or multiple entry, depending on your nationality's reciprocity schedule.
- Max stay per visit
- Determined by your temporary worker category and a CBP officer at the port of entry.
When to start
Start 45 days–3 months before your travel date.
A citizen of a foreign country who wishes to work in the United States must first get the right visa.
Before you can apply for a temporary worker visa, USCIS must first approve the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, which your prospective employer files on your behalf.
You may apply for a visa when USCIS has approved your petition. Complete Form DS-160 online and upload your photo.
Book an interview at any US Embassy or Consulate where you live; wait times vary, so apply early.
What you'll need
- Valid passport — Passport valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States. ✓ verified
- Photo — A photo meeting the requirements, uploaded while completing the DS-160. ✓ verified
- Petition receipt number (Form I-129 / I-797) — Petition Receipt Number as it appears on your Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797. ✓ verified
Where you'll apply
Indian citizens apply at the US Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over where they live; wait times for interview appointments vary, so apply early.
Fees
| Visa application fee (MRV) | USD 205 |
Gotchas to watch
- Most applicants for temporary worker visas must have an approved petition. The prospective employer must file the petition on behalf of the applicant.
- A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.