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Frequently Asked Questions

Vanteo FAQs

What does Vanteo do?
Vanteo is the trusted partner for organizations seeking international hiring, workforce mobility, and cultural exchange. We deliver end-to-end solutions that are legally compliant, ethically managed, and aligned with government requirements. 

Our sub-brands allow us to provide specialized, program-focused service while leveraging the policy, regulatory expertise, and operational excellence that only an integrated enterprise organization can deliver. This structure ensures clients receive both deep specialization and comprehensive support – the best of both worlds. 
What international talent solution programs does Vanteo offer?

We provide end-to-end support from candidate screening through successful workplace integration. Vanteo specializes in three comprehensive talent solution categories:

Our comprehensive family of brands deliver specialized expertise, while our integrated approach ensures you receive both deep program expertise and comprehensive organizational support. 

Who are Vanteo’s sub-brands?

Vanteo’s sub-brands include:

BDV Solutions (BDV) – EB-3 Unskilled

Arkansas Global Connect (AGC) – H-2A and H-2B

Global Teaching Partners (Global) – J-1 Teachers

HRC International (HRC) – J-1 Hospitality

International Teacher Exchange Services (ITES) – J-1 Teachers

J-1 Visa Exchange (J1X) - J-1 Teachers, Interns, and Trainees

TPG Cultural Exchange (TPG) – J-1 Teachers

Argo Visa – assists visa applicants with consulate interview preparation

How does Vanteo streamline the visa process?

Vanteo’s sub-brands manage end-to-end visa processing:

  • Recruitment compliance
  • Documentation preparation
  • Government liaison
  • Timeline management
  • Ongoing support

Our expertise can reduce administrative burden by up to 70%, accelerate approvals, ensure compliance, and deliver qualified workers when you need them most.

How does Vanteo ensure compliance with international talent acquisition regulations?

Our team includes former diplomatic professionals, visa officers, and immigration attorneys who maintain current expertise on evolving regulations across multiple visa categories. We proactively monitor regulatory changes through our Policy Influence Vantage Point, providing strategic guidance that keeps your organization compliant while minimizing risks. Our established relationships with former consular officers ensure we stay ahead of procedural updates and policy shifts.


How does Vanteo help organizations reduce talent acquisition costs or save time?

For organizations seeking workforce solutions via the EB-3 Unskilled visa and H-2 visa programs, we handle complex documentation, embassy coordination, and compliance requirements while you focus on core business operations. Organizations typically see reduced recruitment costs, lower turnover rates, and streamlined processes compared to traditional staffing approaches.

For those seeking cultural exchange through J-1 visas, our systematic approach eliminates the need for multiple partners and resources by providing integrated talent strategies under one partnership. 

Can Vanteo develop customized international talent strategies for enterprise clients?

Yes! We work closely with Fortune 1000 companies and growing organizations to develop comprehensive talent strategies aligned with business objectives, operational cycles, and budget parameters. Our strategic planning includes workforce forecasting, program selection, compliance roadmaps, and scalable solutions that grow with your organization's needs.

What ongoing support does Vanteo provide throughout the placement process?

We offer complete journey management from initial candidate screening through post-arrival integration. Our Talent Support Services include documentation preparation, embassy appointment coordination, arrival services, relocation assistance, and continuous compliance monitoring. Participants and employers receive dedicated support with 24/7 emergency assistance and regular check-ins. 

What makes Vanteo different from traditional staffing firms and immigration law firms?

Unlike fragmented service providers, Vanteo combines policy advocacy, diplomatic experience, and operational execution in one integrated platform. Our former visa officers and government relations experts provide insider knowledge that traditional vendors cannot replicate. We can deliver faster placement timelines, higher approval rates, and more cost-effective solutions than conventional approaches.

Vanteo is not a law firm, and this information should not be considered legal advice. Participation in U.S. visa programs is subject to eligibility, regulatory requirements, and government approval. Past performance does not guarantee future outcomes. 

How quickly can I get qualified international talent?

Timelines vary by program type and organizational needs. Our established consulate relationships and streamlined processes typically accelerate placement timelines compared to traditional methods. During consultation, we provide realistic timelines based on your specific requirements, current processing times, and program selection.


Which industries benefit most from Vanteo's international talent strategies?

We serve diverse industries including construction, manufacturing, hospitality, agriculture, education, retail, and food service. Our programs are particularly effective for organizations facing seasonal staffing challenges using H-2 visas, hard-to-fill permanent roles via EB-3 visas, or those seeking to enhance operations with international perspectives and specialized expertise with J-1 cultural exchange visas. 

How does Vanteo measure success and ensure positive outcomes for client organizations?

We track key performance indicators including 95% visa approval rates, 90%+ client retention rates, and successful placement metrics across 1,000+ organizations served.

Our success is measured by reduced client turnover costs, improved workforce stability, and long-term partnership relationships that demonstrate consistent value delivery and strategic advantage.

How can organizations learn more about Vanteo's enterprise talent solutions?

Schedule a free consultation with our international talent specialists to discover how our V³ framework (Policy, Experience, Execution) can address your specific workforce challenges. Our team provides industry-specific recommendations, timeline overviews, and cost-effective program options tailored to your organizational needs and growth strategy.

EB-3 Visa FAQs

What is the EB-3 Unskilled visa program?

The EB-3 Unskilled visa program, officially known as the "Other Workers" subcategory of the employment-based immigration visa, enables U.S. employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency in positions requiring less than two years of experience or training. This program provides a route to green cards for international workers in entry-level positions across various industries.  

The visa program is designed to strengthen the workforce by filling critical roles when qualified domestic talent is unavailable. 

How do employers prove no qualified U.S. workers are available?
Employers demonstrate that no domestic candidates were available through the PERM labor certification process, which includes conducting recruitment activities including job postings, print advertisements, and other required efforts. You’ll document recruitment results and explain why U.S. applicants were not qualified, able, willing, or available for the position. The Department of Labor reviews this evidence before certifying labor certification applications.
How long does the EB-3 visa process take?
The EB-3 Unskilled visa process typically takes three to five years from initial prevailing wage determination through green card approval. Timelines vary based on the worker's country of origin, USCIS processing times, Department of Labor review periods, and visa availability. Premium processing options can expedite certain steps.  This is not a quick fix. It is a strategic, long-term workforce plan.
Can EB-3 sponsored workers change employers?

After receiving green cards, sponsored workers may change employers freely. However, international workers generally must remain with sponsoring employers through the immigration process and for a reasonable period after receiving permanent residency. Changing employers before green card approval typically requires restarting the process with a new sponsor. 

International workers invest significant time and effort to secure permanent residency, which typically translates into strong commitment and long-term retention in their roles.

What happens if an EB-3 sponsored worker leaves the company?
If a sponsored worker leaves before completing the immigration process, the sponsorship typically ends. The employer’s investment is not transferable, and the worker must either find a new sponsor willing to restart the process or depart the U.S. This risk underscores the importance of careful candidate selection and positive employee experience.
Do EB-3 sponsored workers' families receive green cards?
Yes, approved EB-3 workers' spouses and unmarried children under 21 may receive derivative green cards, allowing them to live, work, and study in the U.S. This family benefit significantly enhances the value proposition for international workers and strengthens their commitment to stay with sponsoring employers.
How many workers can an employer sponsor through the EB-3 program?
There are no legal limits restricting the number of workers employers can sponsor through the EB-3 visa program, provided that each sponsorship meets program requirements. Organizations can implement comprehensive international recruitment strategies by sponsoring multiple workers simultaneously or in succession based on business needs.
What industries commonly use EB-3 visa sponsorship?
EB-3 visas are used in many industries including manufacturing, construction, retail, healthcare, hospitality, and food service. Any industry with full-time permanent positions facing domestic recruitment challenges can benefit from international talent acquisition through the EB-3 program.
Is the EB-3 visa program different from H-2B temporary worker visas?

Yes, the EB-3 visa leads to permanent residency while H-2B visas provide temporary work authorization requiring workers to leave after fixed periods. EB-3 sponsorship creates long-term workforce stability while H-2B addresses seasonal or temporary needs.

Some organizations may find it beneficial to use both EB-3 and H-2B visa program. Ask us how.

What positions qualify for EB-3 sponsorship? 

EB-3 categories include:

  • Skilled workers (requiring two+ years training)

  • Professionals (requiring a bachelor's degree)

  • Unskilled workers in positions requiring less than two years training.

Common roles include manufacturing, retail, construction, and hospitality positions.

Can sponsored workers start before they get their green cards?
Workers often can begin working before green card approval through temporary work visas or employment authorization documents. This allows your organization to fill critical positions while the permanent residency sponsorship processes in the background.

H-2A Visa & H-2B Visa FAQs

What's the difference between H-2A and H-2B visas?

H-2A visas are for temporary agricultural workers only.

H-2B visas cover non-agricultural temporary or seasonal work.

Both require proving no qualified U.S. workers are available and that the need is temporary or seasonal.

How far in advance should I plan for H-2A or H-2B workers?  How long does the visa process take?

H-2A visa programs typically require four to six months of advance planning, while H-2B visa programs need six to eight months due to more complex processing and annual visa caps.  Starting early is critical.

Can H-2A and H-2B workers return year after year?

Yes, many seasonal or temporary workers choose to return year after year if their working conditions are positive.

Returning H-2A or H-2B workers simplify the process significantly. They may bypass certain steps, reducing processing time and costs. Building a reliable returning workforce creates consistency, reduces training needs, and demonstrates program compliance to USCIS, strengthening future applications.

What happens if my labor certification is denied?

If your labor certification is denied, you may address the denial reasons and refile, appeal the decision if appropriate grounds exist, or work with professionals like Vanteo to strengthen your application approach. 

Are there limits on how many international workers I can request?   

H-2A has no numerical limits on how many workers you may sponsor, but you must demonstrate legitimate need.

H-2B is subject to annual caps that may limit availability.  The limit of 66,000 visas per fiscal year is typically split into 33,000 for the first half (Oct-Mar) and 33,000 for the second half (Apr-Sep). Congress may authorize supplemental visas due to high demand.  


What are my obligations if a worker wants to leave early?

If an H-2 worker wants to leave early, you must provide final wages, thoroughly document the departure, and may need to provide return transportation depending on circumstances. 

What if my seasonal needs change after approval?

You may request modifications for increased workers or extended periods through USCIS amendments. For decreased needs, you're still obligated to pay workers for a three-quarter guarantee period. Building flexibility into initial petitions helps accommodate fluctuating demands within approved parameters.

Are there penalties for non-compliance with an H-2 visa?

Yes, there are penalties for visa non-compliance. Violations may include fines up to $10,000 per violation, debarment from the program, and potential criminal charges for willful violations. Common issues include wage violations, inadequate housing (if necessary), and improper record-keeping. Partnering with experienced immigration consultants mitigates compliance risks. 

Can H-2B workers switch to permanent status?

H-2B is explicitly temporary, making direct transitions difficult. However, workers can potentially qualify for other visa categories (H-1B, EB-3) if they meet requirements.

H-2A workers face similar limitations but may pursue agricultural-specific pathways through employer sponsorship for permanent residence.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa FAQs

What does it mean to host a J-1 visa participant?

Hosting a J-1 cultural exchange participant means offering a structured teaching, training, or internship experience that promotes professional growth and cultural exchange.

As a host, you’ll guide participants through hands-on assignments while helping them experience U.S. workplace culture and life. 

What types of J-1 visa programs can my organization host?

With a J-1 visa, you may host teachers, interns, or trainees, among others.

Interns are current students or recent graduates, while trainees have professional experience.

Teachers must have expertise in primary or secondary educational settings. All programs emphasize learning and cultural exchange over routine employment. 

How long does it take to get a J-1 onsite?

From the beginning of the process to the first day onsite, it takes approximately three months.

How long does a J-1 cultural exchange program last?

The length of a J-1 visa program depends on goals and category.

Internship programs last up to 12 months, while trainee programs can extend to 18 months.

For teachers, the program is typically two to five years. 

What are my responsibilities as a J-1 host organization?

As a J-1 cultural exchange host, you’ll provide a structured teaching or training plan, offer mentorship and supervision, communicate with the program sponsor, and ensure a safe, educational, and culturally enriching environment. 

 


Am I required to provide housing or transportation to J-1 participants?

It's not usually necessary to provide housing or transportation for J-1 participants. However, many hosts assist by sharing housing resources, helping with logistics, or offering local guidance. This support makes a big difference in the participants’ experience. 

How does the J-1 visa sponsorship process work?

The J-1 visa sponsorship process requires a host to work with a State Department-designated sponsor organization.

The sponsor reviews the applicant's qualifications and program details, and if approved, issues a Certificate of Eligibility.

The candidate then pays a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee, completes the online application, and schedules a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

Once approved, the J-1 visa holder can enter the U.S. for the duration specified on their application.

Vanteo offers comprehensive program management for schools or businesses interested in sponsoring a J-1 visa cultural exchange participant.   

What are the benefits of hosting a J-1 visa participant?

Hosting a J-1 cultural exchange participant brings new global perspectives, enhances cultural understanding, and fosters international connections.

Participants add enthusiasm, creativity, and cultural insight to your organization, while they develop professional skills and cross-cultural competencies they'll apply throughout their careers.

What is a DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan for a J-1 visa?

The DS-7002 is a J-1 visa placement plan that outlines the program’s learning objectives, supervision structure, and training phases. Vanteo can work closely with you to design a plan that supports both your goals and the participant’s growth. 

What if the J-1 participant encounters challenges or adjustment issues?
f a J-1 participant is having difficulties, your sponsor can help. They maintain regular communication with both you and the participant, providing resources and support to resolve issues quickly and ensure program success. You won’t handle it alone.
Can J-1 participants stay with my company after the program?
The J-1 visa is for cultural exchange only. The participant must return to their home country and stay for two years. While employment beyond the program isn’t permitted, hosts often maintain lasting international relationships.
How much does it cost the host to bring on a J-1 participant?
The employer is required to pay a portion of the costs. An account manager would be happy to discuss further, based on your  needs.
Do we get to interview the J-1 candidates?
Yes, the host interviews candidates and makes the final decision.
What countries do you recruit from?
We recruit from more than 65 countries, year-round, so we can find any specific nationality or language that you are looking for.
Do J-1 candidates speak English?
Yes, all our candidates speak English.
How many J-1 participants can we host? 
Based on the number of your full-time employees, we can determine how many J-1 participants you may host per year.
How do I start the J-1 visa process?  
We’d be happy to assist you. Complete this form and someone will be in touch soon. 

Ready to access motivated talent?

Connect with our enterprise specialists to discuss your specific talent needs. Our team of former diplomatic professionals and policy experts will provide strategic recommendations tailored to your organizational requirements and growth objectives.