Letters of reference, if required for H-1B and other visa applications, should be from present or former employers and...

• be submitted on the employer's letterhead.
• be dated.
• be signed by a representative such as a supervisor or personnel officer.
• clearly state the beginning and ending dates of employment (month & year), the title held, and the specific duties performed by the applicant during the specified periods.
• indicate that the applicant's experience included the theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge, and that such experience was gained while working with peers, supervisors, or subordinates who typically have a degree related to such work (or its equivalent).

To acquire an H-1B visa, CTS will first collect your educational documents, letters of reference, and photocopies of your passport. We will then prepare an application to be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). Upon USCIS approval you will be provided with the necessary documents to take to the U.S. Embassy to apply for the actual visa.

It will generally take between two to four months to receive USCIS approval for an application, and one to seven days for the actual visa to be issued by the American Embassy in your country. However, these time frames are only guidelines and the USCIS or the American Embassies may take longer.

A spouse or child can obtain an H-4 visa simply by accompanying the H-1B employee to the U.S. Embassy and applying for the visa at the same time. It is also possible to apply for the H-4 visa after the H-1B visa has been issued.
Learn more about the H-1B visa.

Canadian citizens may apply for TN work authorization at any U.S. Port of Entry. No prior petition is required, nor is issuance of a visa necessary for entry into the U.S. The TN work authorization can generally be obtained in an hour or so by presenting proof of Canadian citizenship, a letter from the sponsoring employer, and evidence of the applicant’s credentials as required for the qualifying occupation.

Mexican nationals are required to apply for the TN visa at a U.S. consulate in Mexico prior to seeking entry into the United States. A letter from the U.S. employer, proof of Mexican citizenship, and proof of qualifying credentials are required.
Learn more about the TN visa.