The ANZ visa advantage
Australians have a significant advantage: the E-3 visa. It's a work visa specifically for Australian nationals that is faster, cheaper, and easier to get than an H-1B. New Zealanders don't have an equivalent, but have other options.
E-3 Visa (Australians only)
What it is: A non-immigrant work visa for Australian nationals working in a specialty occupation in the US.
Why it's great:
- No lottery (unlike H-1B)
- Can be applied for at a US consulate in Australia or at a US embassy abroad
- Renewable indefinitely in 2-year increments
- Spouses can get an E-3D dependent visa with work authorisation
Requirements:
- A job offer from a US employer
- A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- The job must be a "specialty occupation" (most tech/professional roles qualify)
Timeline: 2–8 weeks from application to visa stamp.
Cost: $500 in government fees + lawyer fees ($2,000–$5,000 if using an immigration attorney).
Community tip: Many ANZ founders have gotten E-3s for their own companies. You can be the employer and the employee. Talk to an immigration attorney about the specifics.
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary ability)
What it is: A visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field.
Why founders use it: If you've raised funding, have press coverage, or have other evidence of extraordinary achievement, you may qualify.
Timeline: 3–6 months (premium processing available for 2–3 weeks).
Cost: $2,000–$8,000 in lawyer fees.
Community tip: The bar is lower than you think. Raising a seed round, speaking at conferences, and having press coverage can be enough. Talk to a lawyer.
EB-1A (Permanent residency — extraordinary ability)
What it is: A green card category for individuals with extraordinary ability.
Why it matters: No employer sponsorship required. You can self-petition.
Timeline: 1–3 years.
Community tip: If you're building something significant, start building your EB-1A case early. Document everything.
E-2 Visa (Treaty investor)
What it is: A visa for nationals of treaty countries (Australia is one) who invest a substantial amount in a US business.
Why founders use it: If you're investing in your own startup, you may qualify.
Requirements: Substantial investment (typically $50K–$200K+), active management of the business.
Recommended lawyers
The ANZ community has had good experiences with:
- Fragomen — large firm, reliable, good for E-3
- Klasko Immigration Law Partners — good for O-1 and EB-1A
- Migrate Mate — ANZ-founded service, community favourite for E-3
Community warning: Always get a second opinion. Immigration law is complex and mistakes are costly.