The H-1B and L-1 visa programs are the two largest sources of high-skilled temporary workers. This paper will analyze the key trends in both programs including: firm use, wages, occupational mix, as a source of inventions, and geographic location. Further, I will examine the ways in which both programs serve as a bridge to permanent immigration (greencards). The paper will place these trends into the context of the key issues - the cap size, labor market tests, and wage floors – being debated by policymakers in 2013.