Compare key details for the most common U.S. visa categories — dual intent, caps, family work authorization, and typical timelines.
Specialty Occupation Worker
Duration: 6 years (3+3), extendable with I-140 pending
Timeline: 3–6 months standard; 2–3 weeks premium
Requires bachelor's degree in a specialty field. Subject to annual lottery (65k + 20k for U.S. master's). H-4 spouse may get EAD if I-140 is approved.
Intracompany Transferee (Manager/Executive)
Duration: 7 years (3+2+2)
Timeline: 2–4 months standard; 2–3 weeks premium
Must have worked for the foreign affiliate for 1 year. Fast track to EB-1C green card.
Intracompany Transferee (Specialized Knowledge)
Duration: 5 years (3+2)
Timeline: 2–4 months standard
For employees with specialized knowledge of the company's products/processes.
Extraordinary Ability (Science/Business/Athletics)
Duration: 3 years + 1-year extensions
Timeline: 2–3 months standard; 2–3 weeks premium
High bar — must demonstrate extraordinary ability with awards, publications, high salary, critical role, etc.
USMCA/NAFTA Professional (Canada/Mexico)
Duration: 3 years, unlimited renewals
Timeline: Same day at port of entry (Canada); 2–3 months (Mexico)
No cap, no lottery, fast processing. Does NOT allow dual intent — openly pursuing green card can jeopardize TN status.
EB-1 Priority Worker (Green Card)
Duration: Permanent
Timeline: 1–3 years (most countries); 3–5 years (China/India)
Three subcategories: EB-1A (extraordinary ability, self-petition), EB-1B (outstanding professors/researchers), EB-1C (multinational managers).
EB-2 National Interest Waiver (Green Card)
Duration: Permanent
Timeline: 2–5 years (most countries); 60+ years (India)
Self-petition for individuals whose work is in the national interest. No employer needed. India and China face severe backlogs.
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