When families wish to hire nannies or childcare professionals from abroad, the process of obtaining a visa can be complex. Although there isn’t a specific “nanny visa,” several visa categories can be used for this purpose. At US-Immigration, our experienced immigration team has successfully assisted hundreds of families across the U.S. in securing childcare visas.
Bringing a nanny from another country involves more than selecting the right candidate — it requires navigating detailed immigration laws. This guide outlines the nanny visa process, USCIS fees, and other essential details.
The H-2B visa allows nannies to live and work temporarily in the U.S., providing childcare services for host families under approved conditions.
Employer Eligibility: Employers must prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the nanny position and that hiring a foreign nanny won’t affect local wages or working conditions.
Nanny Eligibility: Nannies must meet the employer’s requirements, including relevant childcare experience, a clean record, and the intent to return to their home country after the visa expires.
Labor Certification: The employer must first obtain a temporary labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
Petition Filing: After approval, the employer files Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Consular Processing: Once approved, the nanny applies for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, attending an interview and submitting required documents.
Arrival: Upon visa approval, the nanny may travel to the U.S. and begin work with the sponsoring family.
The H-2B visa is typically valid for up to one year and can be extended to a maximum of three years. To renew, the employer must reapply for labor certification and file a new petition before the current visa expires.
The USCIS fee for Form I-129 is $1,090, and with Form I-907 for premium processing, the total is $1,685. These costs are current as of June 2025. For updated information, refer to the USCIS fee calculator.
The H-2B visa also applies to caretakers — professionals providing in-home assistance to the elderly or individuals with disabilities. While the process is similar to that for nannies, caretakers often have additional health and safety obligations.
Job Duties: Caretakers may assist with daily living tasks, provide supervised medical support, or offer companionship to clients.
Temporary Need: Employers must prove the position is temporary, such as during seasonal demand or when a regular caregiver is unavailable.
Health Compliance: Employers should ensure proper training, safe working conditions, and adherence to all health regulations.
Handling nanny and caretaker visas requires legal precision and experience. Our attorneys bring deep expertise in this area, ensuring you receive accurate guidance and reliable support through every step.
We focus exclusively on immigration law, offering specialized advice tailored to nanny and caretaker visa applications.
From identifying the best visa type to compiling documents and meeting deadlines, our team manages the entire process with care and accuracy.
We create personalized strategies based on your needs, anticipate challenges, and advocate for your case if complications arise during review.
Our detailed approach minimizes mistakes, reduces processing delays, and keeps your application compliant with the latest immigration laws.
Working with our immigration team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience. We handle the legal process so you can focus on your family’s needs.
At US-Immigration, our experienced immigration attorneys help families, nannies, and caregivers navigate complex visa procedures with confidence. Whether sponsoring a domestic worker or seeking employment in the U.S., we provide personalized guidance every step of the way.
Contact our law office today to schedule a consultation with an experienced nanny and caretaker visa attorney at 323-805-0445.
What kinds of temporary visas are available for nannies?
There are two main options — H-2B (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker) and J-1 (Exchange Visitor) visas.
What are the general requirements for an H-2B petition?
The job must be temporary, full-time, and offered under fair conditions. Employers must show that no U.S. workers are available, and the foreign nanny must meet the job qualifications.
I have a newborn and work full-time. Can I petition for an H-2B nanny?
Yes. The H-2B visa can be granted for up to three years for one-time needs. Employers must advertise the position, prove no qualified U.S. candidates were available, and show the specific end date when the nanny’s services will no longer be required.
Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
Juliette Potter is a highly accomplished United States Immigration Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. She began her legal journey as a Barrister in the United Kingdom and was later admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in Antigua and Barbuda before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.
Ms. Potter’s academic background is equally distinguished. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Florida International University College of Law, a Bachelor of Laws (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, and a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica. She also earned a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University’s College of Business in Ohio.
Her professional experience spans both the corporate and legal worlds. Before entering private immigration practice, she served as Chief Legal Officer for an international group of companies. Today, she is a Licensed Attorney in the State of New York, representing clients before the Federal Immigration Courts of the United States, while also maintaining her active law license in Antigua and Barbuda.
As an immigrant herself, Ms. Potter brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her practice. Her personal experiences inspire her unwavering commitment to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law with confidence and care.
Outside the courtroom, Ms. Potter enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring new cuisines — passions that reflect her appreciation for diversity and global cultures, both in life and in law.