Emigrate to another country It can be the push that many need to change life, look for new horizons and grow personally and professionally. And although many choose Europe, The United States continues to lead destinations lists dreaming to work and start from scratch.
But what if you want to move and you still don’t have a job offer in your hand? Despite what many believe, there are Visas that allow you to legally enter and work in the US No need to be hired by an American company.
Emigrar: How to work in the United States if you don’t have a job proposal
Visa B-1/B-2: For business trips or opportunities
If your goal is to tantage the terrain before compromising with a definitive move, visa B-1/B-2 can serve as the first entrance door. Although it does not allow legally to work or receive income in the US, it does enable activities such as participating in Business meetings, attend conferences or seek commercial opportunities.
This visa is ideal for those who want to study the market, generate contacts or prepare the launch of a venture. Of course: you cannot accept a job while you are with this visa. Ignoring that restriction can bring serious migratory consequences.
Visa E-2: For those who invest in their own business
If you have entrepreneurial spirit and some capital, the E-2 visa is a powerful option. Is designed for citizens of countries who have Commercial treaties with the USand allows you to move to manage your own business in which you have invested an important sum (at least it is suggested USD 100,000).
It is not necessary to have a previous contract: what counts is the commitment to entrepreneurship and that the project is viable and generates local employment. The visa is renewed while the business is active, although not all countries qualify for this benefit.
VISA EB-2 NIW: For professionals with an impact on national interest
This visa offers a direct route to permanent residence (Green Card) without relying on an employer. It is designed for people with advanced training or proven experience that can demonstrate that their work directly benefits the United States.
Who usually apply? Scientists, engineers, health professionals, educators and artists with outstanding achievements. Unlike other labor visas, here you can start the process on your own, which makes it a great alternative for whom They seek to establish themselves independently.
Visa O-1: For talents recognized in your field
If you have an outstanding trajectory and you can Test it with awards, publications or media coveragethe O-1 visa could be for you. Apply for people with extraordinary skills in science, art, sport, education or business.
Although technically You need a sponsor in the US, You can organize the process to work more flexibly within your industry. The main challenge is to gather all the documentation that supports your level of excellence.
Visa L-1: For employees of multinational companies
Do you work for a company with headquarters in the US? Then you could request a L-1 visa like Internal transfer This visa allows you to move to continue working within the same company, without going through a new job offer.
Of course: you have to have been at least a year in the company before the transfer. The initial duration goes from one to three years, but it is renewable if the position is still in force.
Visas F-1 and J-1 with opt or CPT: study and gain work experience
Those who enter the US with a student visa (F-1) or exchange visitor (J-1) can access programs such as optional practical training (opt) or curricular practical training (CPT), which They allow working while studying.
Although these options are not a direct path to employment without offer, they function as a springboard to gain experience and facilitate the transition to other more permanent work visas.
Visa TN: exclusive to citizens of Mexico and Canada
Within the framework of the T-MEC, Mexican and Canadian citizens can access the TN visa to exercise specific professions in the US, as Engineering, Accounting, Nursing or Teaching.
Although it requires complying with certain academic requirements, the procedure is much more agile and does not require a traditional job offer. It is an option widely used by professionals who already have contacts or a network in the United States.
These alternatives prove that, even if you do not have a signed contract, there are legal and viable ways to start a new life in the United States in 2025. Evaluate your profile and choose the appropriate visa can make a difference. And if you have doubts, a specialized immigration lawyer can help you take the best way for you.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
