Work Visas & Employment-Based Immigration in Georgia
H-1B, L-1, O-1, PERM labor certification, E-Verify requirements, and professional licensing in Georgia.
Common work visa categories
| Duration | Key requirement | |
|---|---|---|
| H-1B | 3 years (renewable to 6) §8 U.S.C. 1101 | Specialty occupation requiring bachelor's degree or higher |
| L-1 | 1-3 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101 | Intracompany transferee in managerial or specialized knowledge role |
| O-1 | 3 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101 | Extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics |
| TN | 3 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101 | USMCA (formerly NAFTA) professional from Canada or Mexico |
| E-2 | 2 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101 | Treaty investor from qualifying country |
E-Verify in Georgia
Mandatory for private employers with more than 10 employees; public employers and contractors are covered separately under Code Section 13-10-91. One of the broadest E-Verify mandates in the nation. §36-60-6
Professional licensing
Georgia requires lawful presence for state-issued professional licenses. The Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program is used to verify immigration status for license applicants. §50-36-1
PERM labor certification
For permanent employment-based green cards, most employers must complete the PERM labor certification process through the Department of Labor, demonstrating that no qualified U.S. worker is available for the position §8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(5).
Ready to Talk to a Lawyer?
Submit a short intake form and a participating Georgia attorney who handles this type of matter may reach out to you. No commitment required.
Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.