Fast triage (pick a lane)

• Employer job offer? TN / H‑1B / sometimes O‑1
• Transferring within your company? L‑1
• Starting or buying a business you will run? E‑2

Real questions about status & work authorization

• “Which option is fastest?” “Fast” depends on eligibility — many delays come from documents and employer readiness, not just processing time.
• “Can I job-hunt while visiting?” You can network and interview, but working requires the correct authorization.
• “What trips people up?” Assuming an employer will “figure it out” later. It helps to understand what the employer needs to do.
• “What should I prepare?” Clear resume, proof of education/experience, and a simple story of what you’ll do and where you’ll live.

TN (USMCA) — when you fit the professional list

• Good for: certain professional roles with a U.S. job offer.
• Watch for: job duties must match the TN profession; credentials matter.
• Prepare: offer letter, degree/licensing proof, and a concise duties-to-category explanation.

Official reference: USCIS TN Professionals

L‑1 — intracompany transfer

• Good for: managers/executives (L‑1A) or specialized knowledge roles (L‑1B).
• Watch for: evidence of real company operations and role history.
• Prepare: org charts, payroll history, role descriptions, corporate docs.

Official reference: USCIS temporary workers

H‑1B — specialty occupation (timing matters)

• Good for: degree-required roles with a sponsoring employer.
• Watch for: cap/lottery timing for many employers; paperwork requirements.
• Prepare: degree proof, detailed job description, employer support package.

Official reference: USCIS H‑1B

E‑2 — treaty investor (active business)

• Good for: entrepreneurs investing in and directing a real U.S. business.
• Watch for: “at-risk” investment + credible business plan + active operation.
• Prepare: business plan, bank/transfer evidence, contracts/leases, hiring plan.

Official reference: State Dept treaty categories

O‑1 — extraordinary ability (evidence-heavy)

• Good for: people with sustained recognition in their field.
• Watch for: weak evidence bundles and vague recommendation letters.
• Prepare: awards/press, metrics, leadership proof, reference letters, portfolio.

Official reference: USCIS O‑1

Your next steps (simple 5-part plan)

1. Pick your top 2 options.
2. Write your “10-line story” (role, employer/business, city, start date).
3. Build a document binder (credentials, letters, proof).
4. Confirm timeline with employer/lawyer.
5. Don’t book non-refundable moving costs until the plan is confirmed.