Nonimmigrant
Worker Visas
Helping Professionals, Employers, and Families Secure Legal U.S. Work Authorization
New Orleans Immigration Lawyers
At The Rousell Law Firm, we help employers, skilled professionals, and specialized workers obtain temporary (nonimmigrant) work visas to live and work lawfully in the United States.
Whether you’re a U.S. business seeking to hire international talent or a foreign national hoping to contribute your skills to a U.S. company, our New Orleans immigration attorneys guide you through every step — from visa selection and petition filing to interview preparation and consular processing.
What Is a Nonimmigrant Worker Visa?
A nonimmigrant visa allows a foreign national to enter the U.S. temporarily for a specific purpose — such as employment, training, or cultural exchange.
These visas are temporary (not green cards) and typically tied to a specific employer or job offer.
Each visa type has its own eligibility rules, duration limits, and filing procedures. Choosing the right category is crucial to success.
Common Types of Nonimmigrant Work Visas
Visa Type | Description | Initial Stay / Renewal | USCIS/Govt Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
H-1B (Specialty Occupation) | For professionals in specialty fields requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher (e.g., engineers, IT professionals, accountants). | Up to 3 years; renewable up to 6 years. | Form I-129: $780 + ACWIA & Fraud fees (varies) |
H-2B (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker) | For seasonal or temporary labor (e.g., hospitality, landscaping, seafood processing). Employer must prove labor shortage. | Up to 1 year; extensions available. | Form I-129: $780 |
L-1A / L-1B (Intra-Company Transfer) | For executives, managers (L-1A), or specialized knowledge workers (L-1B) transferring within the same company. | Up to 3 years; renewable to 7 (L-1A) or 5 (L-1B). | Form I-129: $780 + Fraud fee $500 |
O-1 (Extraordinary Ability) | For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. | Up to 3 years; extensions available. | Form I-129: $780 |
P-1 (Athletes / Entertainers) | For internationally recognized athletes, teams, or entertainment groups. | Length of event or contract. | Form I-129: $780 |
TN (USMCA / NAFTA Professionals) | For Canadian and Mexican citizens in listed professional occupations. | Up to 3 years; unlimited renewals. | Form I-129: $780 |
E-1 / E-2 (Treaty Trader & Investor) | For nationals of countries with trade treaties who engage in substantial trade (E-1) or make significant investment (E-2). | Typically 2 years; renewable indefinitely. | DS-160: $315 (consular) + I-129 if in U.S. |
R-1 (Religious Worker) | For ministers or workers in religious vocations employed by nonprofit religious organizations. | Up to 30 months; renewable once. | Form I-129: $780 |
Q-1 (Cultural Exchange Worker) | For participants in approved international cultural exchange programs. | Up to 15 months. | Form I-129: $780 |
Employer Sponsorship & Compliance
Most nonimmigrant work visas require a U.S. employer to act as the petitioner.
The employer must:
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File a petition with USCIS (usually Form I-129).
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Demonstrate the need for the position and the employee’s qualifications.
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Comply with Department of Labor (DOL) requirements, including wage and working condition standards.
Our firm ensures that all petitions are accurate, compliant, and strategically prepared to reduce risk of delays or denials.
How The Rousell Law Firm Can Help
Our immigration attorneys provide full-service support for both employers and foreign nationals, including:
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Determining the best visa classification for your needs.
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Preparing and filing USCIS petitions and Labor Condition Applications (LCAs).
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Assisting with consular processing and visa interviews.
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Helping businesses with I-9 compliance and immigration audits.
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Advising on visa renewals, transfers, or changes of status.
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Developing strategies to transition from temporary visa to permanent residence.
Whether your goal is short-term employment or long-term relocation, our firm provides tailored, results-driven legal guidance.
Key Considerations for Nonimmigrant Workers
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Maintain lawful status at all times; unauthorized employment can jeopardize future visas.
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Work only for the approved employer listed in your petition.
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Notify USCIS of any job changes, promotions, or relocations.
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Track visa expiration dates and begin extension filings early.
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Dependents (spouses and children under 21) may often apply for derivative visas (e.g., H-4, L-2, O-3).
Form / Process | Fee |
|---|---|
I-539 (Dependent Change/Extension of Status) | $470 |
DS-160 (Consular Visa Application) | $315 |
ACWIA Training Fee (H-1B only) | $750–$1,500 |
Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee | $500 |
Premium Processing (optional) | $2,805 |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) | $780 |
Fees are subject to change by USCIS and the U.S. Department of State.
TYPICAL COSTS
&
FEES
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires government filing fees, which vary by case type. Typical expenses include:
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Petition for Family-Based Immigration: $675
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Adjustment of Status (green card within the U.S.): $1,440
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Employment Authorization (optional): $260
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Advance Parole (optional): $630
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Consular Processing Fees (if applying abroad): $120–$325 p/p
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Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): $235
Attorney’s fees are separate and depend on the complexity of the case. At The Rousell Law Firm, we provide transparent fee structures and clear guidance so families know what to expect from the start.
The Rousell Law Firm's Team
Clarity in Counsel. Results-Driven Solutions. An Open, Honest Process.
At Rousell Law Firm, we blend compassionate guidance with thoughtful legal strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your individual needs, craft a customized plan, and deliver a clear path forward — offering straightforward expectations, transparent pricing, and practical timelines.
Same Day Consultations
Tailored Approach & Transparent Guidance
Serving Greater New Orleans Metro & Surrounding Areas
Joelann S. Rousell, J.D., MBA
Managing Attorney
Attorney Rousell is a dedicated and skilled legal professional committed to providing exceptional representation for clients facing family law, immigration, personal and other legal matters.
Arielle M. Lewis, J.D.
(Of Counsel)
Attorney Lewis (Of Counsel) assists the Rousell Law Firm with all family matters, such as: divorce, child custody, child support, and community property matters.
How The Rousell Law Firm Can Help?
Our team works with clients across the New Orleans metropolitan area and South Louisiana. We:
Experienced immigration counsel for Louisiana employers and professionals
Comprehensive petition preparation with legal and evidentiary support
Timely communication and transparent fee structure
Strategic solutions for extensions, transfers, and compliance audits
At The Rousell Law Firm, we combine deep immigration knowledge with personalized attention to help clients work legally and confidently in the United States.
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At The Rousell Law Firm, we offer personalized case evaluations to help our clients understand their options and make informed decisions. During your 30 minute initial consultation, potential clients have the opportunity to speak directly with Attorney Joelann Rousell about their case and receive a preliminary evaluation.
During the initial consultation, our goal is to provide you with an introductory explanation of the law that applies to your facts, a clear understanding of your legal matter and potential outcomes. Whether you are grappling with a family law matter, immigration, disability or need assistance with estate planning, our attorney has the knowledge and expertise to assist you in achieving your objectives.
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