U.S. Work Visa for Employees of International Organizations (G Visa)

1. What is the difference between a G visa and an H visa?


A G visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa issued by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to representatives of international organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Bank, among others. The G visa allows representatives of international organizations to enter the United States on official business for a limited period of time.

An H visa is the most commonly used nonimmigrant visa, and is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to allow a foreign national to temporarily work in the United States. It is typically used for specialty occupations and can be renewed several times.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining a G visa?


To be eligible for a G visa, the applicant must be traveling to the United States to participate in an activity that is officially sponsored by an international organization or they must be a representative of a foreign government who is coming to the U.S. on official business. The applicant must also have a residence abroad that they have no intention of abandoning, and must possess valid travel documents such as a passport.

3. How long does it take to obtain a G visa?


The processing time for a G visa can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the individual applying and the country. Generally, it takes around two to four weeks to obtain a G visa.

4. Can I bring my family with me to the U.S. on a G visa?


No, the G visa is only for individuals who are traveling to the United States on official government business. Family members are not allowed to accompany you on this visa.

5. Is a work permit required to work in the U.S. under a G visa?


Yes, a work permit is required to work in the U.S. under a G visa. A G visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign national to stay in the U.S. for up to three years to conduct business activities, such as consulting, attending meetings and conferences, negotiating contracts, and conducting short-term training programs. In order to work legally in the U.S. under a G visa, the individual must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

6. What types of activities are permitted when working in the U.S. under a G visa?


When working in the U.S. under a G visa, individuals are permitted to engage in activities related to their specific job, such as conferences, meetings, training sessions, and other business activities. They are also allowed to conduct research, but this activity must be approved by the Department of State. For some G visa holders, travel within the U.S. may also be allowed.

7. What employment restrictions exist when working in the U.S. under a G visa?


When working in the United States on a G visa, individuals are restricted to working only for the employer or organization that sponsored their G visa. They cannot seek or accept employment from any other employer, and should their employment end, they must immediately leave the United States. They are also restricted from engaging in any activities that would constitute self-employment, such as business ownership. Additionally, G visa holders may not remain in the United States beyond the authorized period of stay or work in a capacity other than that stated on the visa.

8. How long is a G visa valid for?


A G visa is typically valid for up to five years.

9. Is there an annual limit on the number of G visas issued?


No, there is no annual limit on the number of G visas issued.

10. Can I apply for permanent residence while in the U.S. on a G visa?


In general, G visa holders are not eligible to apply for permanent residence while in the U.S., as they do not have immigrant intent. However, if you are eligible to adjust your status to permanent residence through another visa category, you may do so while in the U.S. on the G visa.

11. Will I be eligible to receive Social Security benefits while in the U.S. on a G visa?


No, you are not eligible to receive Social Security benefits while in the U.S. on a G visa.

12. Is my employer required to pay me at least minimum wage while I’m in the U.S. on a G visa?


Yes. All employers in the United States must pay their employees at least the federal minimum wage, whether they are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or nonimmigrant. The G visa does not exempt you from this requirement.

13. What documents do I need to submit with my application for a G visa?


You must submit a valid passport, completed visa application form, two passport-sized photos, proof of legal stay or residence status in the country where you are applying, a letter of invitation or other supporting documents, proof of financial support, and any other documents required by the embassy or consulate.

14. How does the G visa renewal process work?


The G visa renewal process begins with the completion of Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. The applicant must provide a valid passport and any necessary supporting documents such as proof of work or study in their current country and proof of residence in the United States. Then the applicant must schedule and attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. During the interview, the consular officer will review the application and determine if the applicant is eligible for a G visa renewal. If approved, the applicant will receive a new G visa stamp in their passport.

15. Can I change employers while in the U.S on a G visa?


Yes, you can. However, it’s important to bear in mind that the process of changing employers is often lengthy and complex, and you may be required to apply for a new visa. Additionally, certain restrictions may apply depending on the type of G visa you are currently on. It is thus best to consult with an immigration attorney to ensure that you follow all necessary procedures in order to be able to change employers without violating the terms of your visa.

16. Are there any travel restrictions while I’m in the U.S on a G visa?


Yes, there are some travel restrictions for those in the U.S. on a G visa. Generally, you must obtain permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before traveling outside of the United States. If permission is granted, you may be able to return to the United States to resume work or study for the purpose of your visa. Additionally, if you plan to travel to a country other than Canada or Mexico, you may need a visa from that country in order to enter. Therefore, it is important to check with the country’s embassy or consulate prior to making any travel plans.

17. Are there any special requirements for international organizations when hiring employees on a G visa?


Yes, international organizations must adhere to the restrictions of the G visa when hiring employees. They must obtain a G-1, G-2, G-3 or G-4 visa depending on the employee’s job description and status and must also ensure that the employee is not subject to any restrictions or requirements as per their home country’s laws. Additionally, the organization must prove that they are able to financially support the employee and all their dependents. The organization must also have the appropriate insurance coverage for the employee and any dependents they may be bringing into the host country. Finally, the organization must also provide proof of the employee’s qualifications for their position.

18. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay in the U.S on my G visa?


Typically, the maximum authorized period of stay for G visa holders is 5 years. G visa holders may be subject to an extension of stay, but it’s important to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to learn more about the specifics for your situation.

19. What is the process for applying for an extension of my G visa?


The process for applying for an extension of a G visa varies depending on the individual’s country of origin. Generally, individuals must submit a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa application form to the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of origin. They should include any required documents such as a valid passport, passport-size photos, proof of financial support for their stay in the United States, and evidence of the purpose of their stay. They will also need to pay any applicable fees. After submitting the application, the individual will receive instructions on how to schedule an interview with a consular officer. At the interview, the individual must provide evidence that they still meet all the requirements for the G visa and that their reason for staying has not changed. The consular officer will then decide if the extension will be granted.

20. Are there any additional fees or taxes that I will need to pay while in the U.S on a G visa?


Additional fees and taxes may be required, depending on the particular state or governing authority in which you are staying. For example, some states may require that you pay a sales tax or lodging tax on lodging and purchases. Additionally, you may need to pay for a visa application fee or other application fees associated with your stay in the United States. It is important to check with the applicable state or local government to determine what fees need to be paid.