Orlando Employment Visa Lawyer

Interested in Obtaining a Work Visa in Orlando, FL?

Are you seeking legal guidance to work in the United States? Whether you're an individual hoping to secure employment in the U.S. or an employer looking to sponsor a foreign worker, navigating the complex employment visa process can be overwhelming. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., our experienced Orlando work visa lawyers are here to simplify the process, protect your rights, and help you achieve your immigration goals.

We assist clients in Orlando and throughout Central Florida with a broad range of employment-based immigration matters. From temporary nonimmigrant work visas to permanent employment-based green cards, we’re here to offer personalized support and dependable legal counsel every step of the way.

To schedule an appointment with our Orlando work visa attorneys, call (407) 630-8455 or contact us online today.

Common Types of Employment Visas

U.S. immigration law provides several categories of employment visas to accommodate different professional, educational, and occupational backgrounds. Below are some of the most commonly pursued employment visas:

H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)

The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. Popular in the tech, engineering, and healthcare industries, this visa is subject to an annual cap and lottery system.

L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transferees)

The L-1 visa is for employees of international companies who are being transferred to a U.S. office. It includes two subcategories:

• L-1A: For executives and managers.
• L-1B: For employees with specialized knowledge.

O-1 Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)

The O-1 visa is available for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability or achievement in fields such as science, education, business, athletics, or the arts.

TN Visa (NAFTA Professionals)

Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly NAFTA, citizens of Canada and Mexico may be eligible for TN visas to work in certain professional occupations in the U.S.

EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 Green Cards (Permanent Employment-Based Visas)

These employment-based immigrant visas lead to permanent residency. Each preference level (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3) has specific criteria based on skills, experience, and labor market needs:

• EB-1: Priority workers (outstanding professors, researchers, executives).
• EB-2: Advanced degree professionals or those with exceptional ability.
• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.

Requirements for Work Visas

The requirements for employment visas vary depending on the specific category, but there are some general requirements most applicants must meet:

• Sponsorship by a U.S. Employer: Most employment-based visas require sponsorship by a U.S. employer who submits a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the applicant's behalf.
• Labor Certification (for Certain Visas): Some work visas, particularly EB-2 and EB-3 green cards, require a PERM Labor Certification. This process verifies that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact wages or working conditions.
• Educational or Professional Qualifications: Applicants must have the necessary education, training, or experience related to the offered job. This may include foreign degree evaluations or professional licenses, depending on the field.
• Temporary Intent (for Nonimmigrant Visas): For nonimmigrant work visas like the H-1B or L-1, applicants must demonstrate their intent to return to their home country once the visa expires, unless they later apply for permanent residency.
• Clean Immigration & Criminal Record: Applicants generally must not have immigration violations or certain criminal convictions that could bar them from entry or visa approval.

At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., our Orlando work visa attorneys guide you through the entire process, from initial petitions to consular processing, change of status, or adjustment of status for green cards.

FAQs About Work & Employment Visas in Orlando, FL

How long does it take to get a U.S. work visa?

Processing times vary based on the visa type and individual case details. H-1B visas follow an annual cycle and can take several months, while premium processing is available for some categories. Green card processing often takes longer.

Can my family come with me on an employment visa?

Yes. Many work visas allow dependents to join the visa holder:

• H-1B holders may bring spouses and children on H-4 visas.
• L-1 visa holders may bring family members on L-2 visas.
  In some cases, dependents can apply for work authorization.

Can I change jobs while on a work visa?

It depends on the visa type. For H-1B visa holders, a change of employer requires a new petition. For L-1 visa holders, you must remain with the sponsoring employer. Consult an attorney before making any employment changes.

Can I apply for a green card while on a work visa?

Yes, many nonimmigrant work visa holders later pursue a green card. Some categories, like the H-1B and L-1, allow dual intent—meaning you can seek permanent residency while on a temporary visa.

Do Orlando employers help sponsor foreign workers?

Many employers in Central Florida do offer sponsorships, especially in industries with talent shortages like healthcare, IT, and education. Our firm can assist both employers and employees with the sponsorship process.

Why Choose Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. as Your Orlando Employment Visa Lawyer?

Choosing the right immigration attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we offer:

• Comprehensive Visa Support: From H-1B petitions to EB green cards, we manage every step.
• Custom Legal Strategies: We tailor our approach to your profession, background, and long-term goals.
• Employer & Employee Services: We advise businesses on compliance, recruitment, and sponsorship, as well as individual applicants.

We stay up to date with all USCIS, Department of Labor, and immigration law developments to offer clients reliable and timely advice.

Contact us today to (407) 630-8455 to start your journey toward clarity and resolution