Employment of Foreign Nationals at USC:

An Immigration Overview

Presented by Robert C. LumDirector, Faculty/Staff Visa ServicesOffice of International Services

U.S. Government Agencies

Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIS);

Department of State (DOS);

Department of Labor (DOL).

Nonimmigrant Visas

Utilized by USC to employ foreign nationals in the United States;

Usually granted for a limited period of time;

Employer plays a central role.

Nonimmigrant Visa Categories

Canadian/Mexican Professional Workers (TN visa);

Temporary Workers in Specialty Occupations (H-1B visa);

Person of “extraordinary ability” in the field of science, business or the arts (O-1 visa).

Permanent Residence

USC may sponsor employees for permanent residence (i.e. greencard);

Does not change the employment relationship between employer and employee (e.g. at-will relationship);

USC may withdraw sponsorship at any time.

Procedures for Obtaining Permanent Residence

Labor Certification Application (DOL);

Petition for Immigrant Visa (CIS);

Adjustment of Status Application (if in the United States), or;

Consular Processing.

Miscellaneous Issues

Visa Status vs. Visa Entry Stamp for Nonimmigrant Visa Holders;

Accompany Dependents (i.e. spouse and children) of Nonimmigrant Visa Holders;

Travel and Work Authorization for Applicants for Permanent Residence.

Contact Information

Robert C. Lum, Director, Faculty/Staff Visa Services;

Jessica Garcia, Coordinator, Faculty/Staff Visa Services;

Office of International Services: (213) 740-2666.