Can I Work in the United States With a Tourist Visa?

People from around the world choose to travel to the United States for a variety of reasons. Several types of visas are available to permit individuals to legally enter the country and conduct whatever business they desire. However, you must have the appropriate visa depending on what you wish to accomplish. You cannot work or get paid in the United States if you carry only a tourist visa. However, there are many options for you if working is your goal. Reach out to a skilled employment visa attorney in New York City for assistance and legal advice.

Can I Work in the U.S. With a Tourist Visa?

No, unfortunately for tourist visa holders, it is illegal to work in the United States while holding a tourist visa. Also known as a visitor visa, this type of document only allows a person to enter the U.S. for tourism purposes and for a specific amount of time.

Visitor visas include business (B-1) and tourism (B-2). Under a business visa, you are permitted to:

• Attend conferences
• Negotiate contracts
• Consult with associates

Under a tourism visa, you are permitted to:

• Vacation
• Visit friends and family
• Obtain medical treatment
• Participate in social events
• Participate in unpaid amateur events
• Enroll in short-term recreational courses that do not contribute credits toward a degree

A tourist visa does not permit an individual to apply for jobs within the United States or be paid for work. Engaging in any work-related activities while in the U.S. with a tourist visa can result in legal consequences.

What Happens if I Work While on a Tourist Visa?

Working while unauthorized on a tourist visa can have significant repercussions. If you are caught working without legal authorization you can face severe penalties including having your visa revoked, getting deported, fines, and other legal penalties.

Any of the above will make it difficult for you to obtain a visa in the future and you could be banned from re-entering the country for several years.

What Visas Allow You to Work in the U.S.?

If you wish to work in the United States you can apply for a visa that allows it. Several visa options are made available by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) and are specifically designed for employment purposes. These options include the following.

1. H-1B: Specialty occupation
2. H-2B: Skilled and unskilled workers
3. I: Foreign press
4. L-1: Intracompany transfers
5. O-1: Individuals with extraordinary ability
6. O-2: Individuals accompanying athletes or entertainers to assist in events
7. P-1: Athletes, entertainers, artists, and their essential personnel
8. R-1: Religious ministers or workers
9. TN: Citizens of Canada and Mexico with eligible professions

If your goal is to work in the United States it is crucial that you apply for a visa that allows employment. Navigate to the USCIS website to learn more about your options when seeking employment in the U.S.