United States Visa & Work Authorization Complete Guide 2026

The United States is the world's largest economy, offering top-tier career opportunities in tech, finance, healthcare, and academia. However, work visa competition is fierce and the immigration process is complex.

Main Work Visa Types

H-1B (Specialty Occupation Visa)

The most common U.S. work visa for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree or higher.

• Annual lottery in April (65,000 cap + 20,000 for U.S. master's holders)
• Validity: 3 years (up to 6 years, extendable while pursuing employment-based green card)
• Application fees: USD 730–4,730 (paid by employer)

L-1 (Intracompany Transferee)

For managers, executives, and specialized knowledge workers transferring from a foreign affiliate.

• L-1A (managers/executives): Up to 7 years
• L-1B (specialized knowledge): Up to 5 years

O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)

For individuals with extraordinary achievement in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. No lottery.

TN Visa (USMCA)

For Canadian and Mexican citizens only (not applicable to Japanese nationals).

EB-1/EB-2/EB-3 (Employment-Based Green Card)

Permanent residency through employment. EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) is popular with researchers and professionals. Process can take several years to over a decade.

DV Lottery (Diversity Visa)

Grants ~50,000 green cards annually by lottery. Japan is not an eligible country, so Japanese nationals cannot apply.

Cost Summary

Pre-Move Checklist

1. H-1B lottery risk: Competition ratio is 3–5x+ annually; multiple attempts may be needed
2. Tax complexity: Federal + state + local tax structure varies significantly by state
3. Health insurance: Employer-provided insurance is standard; individual coverage is expensive if unemployed

The U.S. offers high income potential but also high taxes, healthcare costs, and housing expenses. We recommend thorough simulation in MoveWorth before committing.