H-1B and J-1 are the most common visa types for employees and scholars at MSU. Other options include TN, O-1, E-3, and employment-based permanent residency. OISS provides specific information on each type, application procedures, regulations, advantages and limitations. The H-1B and J-1 Comparison Chart (PDF) can help your department decide if these visa types work best for the position.  MSU departments may also hire international students in F-1 and J-1 status.

Hiring H-1B Employees

H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that is designated for individuals coming temporarily to the U.S. to perform services in a specialty occupation for up to 6 years. 

Hosting J-1 Scholars

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program promotes mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by educational and cultural exchanges. J-1 Scholars come to MSU as visiting researchers and professors.

Hosting J-1 Student Interns

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program promotes mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by educational and cultural exchanges. J-1 Student Interns are students who are enrolled in degree programs outside of the U.S. They come to MSU to conduct research and participate in other academic activities that are related to their degree program. 

Hiring TN, O-1, & E-3 Employees

TN, O-1 & E-3 are temporary immigration categories for Canadians & Mexicans (TN), Australians (E-3), and individuals who have achieved and sustained national or international acclaim for extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics or aliens who have demonstrated a record of extraordinary achievement (O-1). 

Sponsoring Permanent Residency

Permanent residency is also commonly referred to as the “green card" process. Permanent Residents have authorization to live and work on a permanent basis in the U.S. MSU departments may choose to seek employment-based permanent residency for employees. 

Hiring Current Students and J-2 Dependents

On-campus work authorization for F-1, J-1, and J-2 students and dependents that hiring departments need to know.