by Interstride
Looking for a way to work in the US without relying on the H-1B lottery? If you’re an international student or professional employed by a qualifying international organization such as the UN, WHO, or WTO, the G visa could be a strong alternative.
G visa are designed for diplomats, government representatives, and international organization employees. This path is especially relevant for those with degrees in political science, economics, international relations, or related fields. While it doesn’t provide a path to permanent residency, it offers a clear, reliable way to live and work in the US.
What is the G visa?
The G visa is a nonimmigrant visa for international government officials and employees of recognized international organizations. Often called a diplomatic visa (along with the A visa), it allows eligible individuals to live and work in the US for the duration of their official assignment.
This visa is issued based on the applicant’s role and affiliation with the organization. It is required for any official work travel, even for nationals of visa waiver countries. The visa remains valid while the individual is employed, and holders must leave the US within 30 days after their assignment ends.
Types of G visas
There are five categories under the G visa:
- G-1 – For members of a permanent mission representing a recognized government at a designated international organization
- G-2 – For government representatives attending meetings at a designated international organization
- G-3 – For representatives of governments that are not officially recognized by the US
- G-4 – For individuals employed by designated international organizations
- G-5 – For domestic workers or personal employees of G-1 through G-4 visa holders
Use the Interstride career portal to find jobs and internships with international organizations that qualify for the G visa. Filter by company type to streamline your search.
Exceptions to G visa-eligible employers
Not all international roles qualify for a G visa. While many employees of designated international organizations are eligible, there are two important exceptions:
- If you are working for NATO, you must apply for a NATO visa.
- If you are a head of state, you are required to apply for an A visa, which is designated for high-ranking government officials such as presidents and prime ministers.
If you’re unsure which visa applies to your role, consult your employer or a qualified immigration advisor before beginning the application process.
Can I bring my family with me to the US on a G visa?
Immediate family members are typically eligible for the same category of G visa as the principal applicant, as long as your appointment is longer than 90 days. In other words, if you’re issued a G-4 visa, your eligible family members would also receive G-4 visas.
The US government considers “immediate family” to include:
- A legally married spouse
- Children up to 21 years old who live in your household
- Children aged 21-26 years old who live in your household and receive benefits from the World Bank Group
- Children 26 years and older who are registered as disabled
- Parents or parent-in-laws who live in your household, are financially dependent on you, and have a total annual income of less than $10,712 from all sources (including pensions, investments, and family support)
The G-4 visa explained
Of all G visa types, the G-4 is the most commonly used. In 2023, over 54% of the 47,976 G visas issued were G-4 visas. This visa is intended for employees of designated international organizations recognized by the US government. These organizations include:
Only individuals employed directly by these organizations, along with their immediate family members, are eligible for the G-4 visa. This also includes interns, provided they are employed and paid directly by the qualifying organization. Multinational corporations, private businesses, and nonprofits are not eligible under this visa category.
In some cases, a spouse on a G-4 visa may also be eligible to apply for work authorization in the US.
How to apply for a G visa
Unlike the popular H-1B visa, there is no lottery and no cap for a G visa. However, it’s important to note that the G visa is a temporary, nonimmigrant visa and does not provide a pathway to a green card.
While the international organization (your employer) must supply certain supporting documents, the responsibility for submitting the visa application falls on the applicant.
Steps to apply for a G visa:
- Complete Form DS-160
- Submit the required documentation – a valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your period of stay in the US), the DS-160 confirmation page, and a recent photo taken within the past six months
- Provide a diplomatic note or travel orders from your employer – this should include your name, date of birth, position and title, job location in the US, purpose of travel, and official duties start date and expected duration of stay
There is no fee to apply for a G visa. Most G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa applicants are not required to attend a visa interview, though exceptions may apply. However, G-5 applicants (domestic or personal employees of G visa holders) must complete an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Make an international impact
The G visa provides a structured and reliable way for former international students and global professionals to work in the US through international organizations. While it does not lead to permanent residency, it removes many of the common barriers like visa lotteries and employer sponsorship requirements.
If you’re aiming to build a career with a mission-driven, globally focused organization, this visa could be your opportunity to contribute on an international stage while gaining valuable experience in the US.
Log in to the Interstride career portal to find jobs and internships with G visa-eligible international organizations today.
FAQs
1. How do I qualify for a G visa?
You may qualify for a G visa if you are: (a) a member of a permanent mission representing a recognized government to a designated international organization; (b) a government representative traveling to the United States to attend meetings at such an organization; (c) employed by a designated international organization in the U.S.; or (d) a personal employee or domestic worker of someone holding a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa.
2. How do I apply for a G visa?
Once you have a qualifying job, complete Form DS-160 online and submit the required documents, including your valid passport, a recent photo, and a diplomatic note or travel order.
3. How much does it cost to apply for a G visa?
There is no application fee for G visas. These visas are issued free of charge to qualified individuals representing foreign governments or international organizations.
4. Can I bring my family with me to the US on a G visa?
Yes. Immediate family members, typically a spouse and dependent children, may be eligible for G visas if your assignment is expected to last more than 90 days. They must be listed on your official documentation and meet the State Department’s criteria for “immediate family.”
5. How long does the G visa last?
The visa is valid for the length of your official assignment or employment. While the visa stamp may be valid for multiple years (subject to reciprocity agreements), your legal status in the US is tied to your continued eligibility and role with the international organization.
6. Can I go from a G visa to an H-1B visa or vice versa?
The State Department currently does not allow status changes from H-1B, F-1, or J-1 visas to G-1 or G-4 visas. International students and alumni on H-1B visas must leave the US before applying for a G visa.
7. Can I go from a G visa to a green card?
Some G visa holders may be eligible for permanent residency. For example, certain G-4 employees of international organizations and their eligible family members may apply for a green card for international organization employees. Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance.
