Employment Visa Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Are you looking for professional assistance with employment visas in Atlanta, Georgia? You've come to the right place. At PVB Law LLC, we help individuals and businesses understand and apply for the appropriate employment visas. 

At PVB Law LLC, we pride ourselves on being a competitive, knowledgeable, and trustworthy law firm and enjoy helping people with everything regarding immigration. 

Understanding Employment Visas 

Foreign nationals who wish to work in the United States need to apply for employment visas. These visas allow individuals to enter and remain in the country for employment purposes. Employment visas are divided into several categories, with specific requirements and conditions. The most common types of employment visas include: 

H-1B Visa 

The H-1B visa is for skilled workers in specialty occupations that require a high level of expertise. This visa is popular among professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in the relevant field, and the employer must prove that the job cannot be filled by a domestic worker. H-1B visas are typically granted for three years, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of six years. 

L-1 Visa 

The L-1 visa is for intra-company transferees who work in managerial positions or have specialized knowledge. This visa allows multinational companies to transfer employees from their foreign offices to their U.S. offices. 

The L-1 visa is divided into two subcategories: L-1A for managers and executives, and L-1B for employees with specialized knowledge. Holders of the L-1 visa may be eligible for a green card through the Employment-Based Immigration process. 

E-2 Visa 

The E-2 visa is for investors and entrepreneurs from countries with which the United States has a treaty of commerce. This visa allows individuals to enter the U.S. to manage and develop their investment or business. 

The E-2 visa allows investors to enter the U.S. for a renewable period, provided that their investment is substantial, and the business is actively operating. Applicants must demonstrate that they possess at least 50% ownership of the enterprise and can show a clear plan for the business’s operations and financial viability. 

O-1 Visa 

The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities or achievements in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics. It recognizes exceptional talent and contributions. 

The O-1 visa is divided into two categories: O-1A for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, or athletics, and O-1B for those with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. Applicants must provide evidence of their accomplishments, such as awards, published articles, or contracts, to demonstrate their exceptional qualifications and establish their sustained national or international acclaim. 

TN Visa 

The TN visa is for Canadian and Mexican citizens who seek temporary entry into the U.S. to engage in professional business activities under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Applicants must possess the required qualifications for their profession, such as a degree or relevant work experience, and must receive a job offer from a U.S. employer in a designated NAFTA occupation. 

Benefits of Employment Visas 

Obtaining an employment visa can provide numerous benefits, both for the employee and the employer. Some of the key advantages include: 

• Legal work authorization: An employment visa grants legal permission to work in the United States, in compliance with immigration laws. 

• Career growth opportunities: Employment visas open doors to new job opportunities and career advancement in the U.S. job market. 

• Family reunification: Many employment visas allow visa holders to bring their immediate family members to the United States. 

• Pathway to permanent residency: Certain employment visas can serve as a stepping stone to obtaining a green card and permanent residency in the United States. 

• Access to diverse talent: Employment visas enable employers to tap into a broader talent pool, bringing in skilled workers from around the globe to meet specific industry needs. 

• Strengthening global partnerships: By hiring international professionals, companies can promote cross-cultural collaboration and strengthen business ties with other countries. 

Employment Visa Laws in Georgia 

In Georgia, certain state laws and regulations may impact employment visa holders. These include: 

E-Verify Requirements 

Georgia requires employers to use the E-Verify system to confirm the employment eligibility of newly hired employees. This federal system checks the information provided by employees against government records to verify their legal right to work in the United States. 

Worker's Compensation 

Employment visa holders in Georgia are entitled to worker's compensation benefits if they suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Employers are required to provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation services. 

Anti-Discrimination Laws 

Georgia law prohibits discrimination based on national origin, citizenship status, and immigration status. Employers must treat all employees fairly and provide equal opportunity regardless of their background. 

Minimum Wage Compliance 

Georgia's state laws require employers to adhere to minimum wage regulations, which apply to all employees, including those holding employment visas. Employers must ensure that all workers receive at least the state-mandated minimum wage, which protects visa holders from potential exploitation. 

Driver's License and ID Requirements 

Employment visa holders in Georgia can apply for a driver's license or state-issued identification if they meet specific criteria. This process may involve providing documentation of their visa status and proof of residency, allowing visa holders greater mobility and access to essential services throughout the state.