Work Visas & Employment-Based Immigration in Ohio
H-1B, L-1, O-1, PERM labor certification, E-Verify requirements, and professional licensing in Ohio.
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 Ohio
Mandatory for all state agencies and public contractors. Private employers are not required to use E-Verify but may do so voluntarily. §9.84
Professional licensing
Ohio requires lawful presence for most professional licensing. DACA recipients with valid work authorization may be eligible for certain professional licenses. The Ohio Supreme Court has admitted DACA recipients to the bar on a case-by-case basis.
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).
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