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Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Work Visas & Employment-Based Immigration in Oklahoma

H-1B, L-1, O-1, PERM labor certification, E-Verify requirements, and professional licensing in Oklahoma.

Employment-based immigration allows foreign nationals to work in the U.S. temporarily or permanently. The INA establishes several visa categories and employer sponsorship requirements §8 U.S.C. 1153.

Common work visa categories

DurationKey requirement
H-1B3 years (renewable to 6) §8 U.S.C. 1101Specialty occupation requiring bachelor's degree or higher
L-11-3 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101Intracompany transferee in managerial or specialized knowledge role
O-13 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101Extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics
TN3 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101USMCA (formerly NAFTA) professional from Canada or Mexico
E-22 years (renewable) §8 U.S.C. 1101Treaty investor from qualifying country

E-Verify in Oklahoma

Mandatory for all public employers, state agencies, and public contractors under HB 1804 (2007). Not required for all private employers, though significant pressure exists to expand the mandate. §25 O.S. 1313

Professional licensing

Oklahoma requires lawful immigration status for professional licensing. State licensing boards must verify immigration status before issuing licenses. DACA recipients with valid work authorization may be eligible for certain licenses during their authorized period. §59 O.S. 4100

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).

✓Work visa petitions are time-sensitive. H-1B petitions are subject to an annual lottery. Start planning well in advance of any employment start date or status expiration.
Prepare for Your Consultation
Quick checklist (Immigration)
Gather these before your first consultation.
Valid identification
(passport, birth certificate, national ID)
Immigration documents
(visa, I-94, approval notices, prior petitions)
Supporting evidence
(employment records, family ties, financial docs)
General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your case type and immigration status.
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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related guides

Oklahoma Immigration Law Guide — Rights & Resources
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Family-Based Immigration in Oklahoma — Sponsoring Relatives
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Naturalization & Citizenship in Oklahoma — Path to Becoming a Citizen
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