US visas: the overview

Which routes exist for Dutch people wanting to live and work in LA, in plain language. Not advice, but a map of the landscape.

First: talk to an immigration lawyer

Immigration law changes often and every situation differs. This guide helps you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer, nothing more. Find one through AILA (the professional association) and ask about experience with Dutch clients. A first consultation costs $150–400 and is always worth it.

Working on an ESTA is prohibited, including remote work for a Dutch employer from an Airbnb in LA. It can lead to a lifetime entry ban.

Working for a US employer

H-1B: specialty occupation, lottery in March, start in October; your employer applies. L-1: intracompany transfer after at least a year of employment (L-1A manager, L-1B specialist). O-1: for people with 'extraordinary ability' (tech, film, science, sports); popular in LA's entertainment industry. TN exists only for Canadians and Mexicans.

Entrepreneurs: E-2 treaty visa

The Netherlands has a treaty with the US, so Dutch nationals can get an E-2 by making a 'substantial' investment in a US business they direct. There's no fixed minimum; in practice $100,000+ is often mentioned, depending on the business. Your spouse automatically gets work authorization (E-2S). The visa renews as long as the business runs, but doesn't lead to a green card by itself.

Studying and exchange

F-1 for a full degree (UCLA, USC, community colleges), followed by up to 1 year of OPT work (3 years for STEM). J-1 for exchange, internships and au pairs; watch for the 'two-year home residency' rule that sometimes applies.

Green card: the long road