Foreign Engineer working in LaGrange

Question

Dear Expats,

As a foreign engineer I have to travel to LaGrange in Georgia to dismantle an industrial machinery. I will need not more then 90days with my team to complete the job.

My foreign employer sends me to the USA, I will get paid in Germany and all expenses born by my employer.

So i not go to the US to take anybody's job or get paid within the US. It is a one time thing.

My questions is for what Visa I do have to apply so that I can stay there for up to 90 days and dismantle a industrial machine?

If you do know please let me know.

Thanks,

Albert

Answer

Hi Albert,

For a situation like yours, where you are a foreign engineer coming to the United States for a temporary job and will not be earning U.S.-based income, the most appropriate visa would likely be a B-1 Business Visitor Visa, or possibly a VISA Waiver (if applicable) depending on your nationality.

B-1 Business Visitor Visa: The B-1 visa is intended for individuals who are coming to the U.S. temporarily for business purposes. In your case, as you are coming to dismantle industrial machinery, this falls under the category of business activities. The B-1 visa allows stays of up to 1 year, but typically visitors are admitted for 6 months or less. Since your stay is for 90 days, this would be a good option.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP): If you are a citizen of a country that participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (such as Germany), you may be eligible to enter the U.S. without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for business or tourism purposes. However, this program does not allow for work (like employment) within the U.S., so it may not be applicable to your specific situation unless you are attending meetings, conducting consultations, etc. It's best to confirm with the U.S. embassy or consulate regarding your exact activities under this waiver.
Important Considerations: While on a B-1 visa or under the VWP, you cannot take up permanent employment, nor can you receive payment from a U.S. source. Since you are being paid by your employer in Germany and your task is temporary, this is in line with the type of activity allowed under these visas. However, ensure you are clear with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about the temporary and non-employment nature of your trip.

In addition to applying for the correct visa, you will need to ensure that the purpose of your visit is clearly stated in your application, and you may be asked to provide supporting documentation from your employer to show the details of your work assignment (such as the machinery dismantling project). It’s always a good idea to check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate for further details, as requirements may vary slightly based on your country of residence.

Good luck with your visa application, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions! Safe travels to the U.S.