Finding a job in the United States can seem daunting, but with preparation and persistence, it is very achievable. As a foreign national, there are important steps you need to take in order to be eligible to work legally in the US. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to applying for jobs in the USA as a foreigner.
Requirements for Working in the USA
In order to legally work in the United States as a foreign citizen, you must have authorization from the US government. The most common ways to obtain authorization are:
- H-1B work visa – For specialty occupations such as IT, engineering, accounting, architecture, etc.
- L-1 visa – For intracompany transfers if you already work for a company with a US office.
- F-1 student visa with OPT – For students graduating from a US university to work for 1-3 years.
- J-1 exchange visitor visa – For working or training programs ranging from a few weeks to a couple years.
- Green card – Permanent resident status allowing you to live and work in the US indefinitely.
Before you start applying for jobs, you’ll need to make sure you are eligible for one of these work authorizations. The company hiring you will also need to be able to sponsor you for the specific work visa you need.
Have Your Documents Ready
When applying for jobs in the US, you need to have certain documents ready to include in your application. This shows employers you are serious and prepared to work.
- Updated resume – Customize your resume for each job you apply to. Emphasize your skills and experience relevant to that role.
- Cover letter – Write a unique cover letter for every application. Address the letter to the hiring manager and explain why you are an excellent fit.
- References – Have 3 professional references ready with their name, job title, relationship to you, phone number, and email address.
- Portfolio – If relevant, include examples of your best work like writing samples, design projects, artwork, code, etc.
- Transcripts – For recent graduates, provide official university transcripts showing your degree.
Having these materials prepared in advance will make the application process much smoother.
Search for Jobs
There are many resources available for finding open positions in the US. Here are some top job boards and company websites to search:
- Indeed
- Monster
- Glassdoor
- Idealist – For nonprofit jobs
- USAJobs – For government jobs
- Company websites – Check career sites directly on company sites for openings.
When searching, focus on roles that align with your skills, education, and work authorization eligibility. Pay attention to locations – make sure they sponsor foreign workers if required for the visa.
Pro Tip: Set up automatic job alerts so you get notifications of new postings daily or weekly based on keywords.
Apply for Visa Sponsorship
If you don’t already have work authorization, you’ll need the employer to sponsor your visa. The company will handle much of the visa application process, but there are things you must do as the employee:
- Provide all required documents – diplomas, transcripts, resume, passport, etc.
- Complete forms thoroughly and accurately.
- Get any requested supporting materials like recommendation letters.
- Attend visa interviews at the consulate when required.
- Pay required visa application fees.
- Be patient and responsive! The process can take several months.
H-1B Visa Timeline
For the popular H-1B skilled worker visa, here is the typical timeline of steps:
Timeframe | Step |
---|---|
March – April | Employer files LCA form and submits H-1B petition for next fiscal year |
April – May | H-1B lottery held if enough petitions received |
June – August | Petitions selected in lottery are processed by USCIS |
July – October | Employee completes DS-160 form and schedules visa interview after approval |
October | Employee attends visa interview at US consulate |
October – January | Employee receives passport with H-1B visa stamp |
Timing will vary, but the process generally takes 6-10 months. Be sure to start early!
Prepare for the Interview
The job interview is your chance to make an excellent impression on the employer. Here are some tips to prepare:
- Research the company – Get familiar with their products/services, mission, history and competitors.
- Study the job description – Highlight key skills and requirements. Think of examples of how you meet each one.
- Practice answering questions – Rehearse talking about your experience, skills and motivation out loud.
- Prepare smart questions to ask – Asking thoughtful questions shows your interest in the company.
- Dress professionally – Wear formal business attire even for video interviews.
Practicing and planning ahead helps reduce stress and build confidence before your interview.
Common Interview Questions
Expect to answer both general and role-specific interview questions. Some examples include:
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your greatest strengths?
- Why do you want to work here?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- What is your expected salary?
- What experience do you have with [x skill]?
- How would you approach [situation]?
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers with real examples.
Accept Job Offer
Once you receive a job offer, here are important steps to take:
- Thank the employer and express your enthusiasm.
- Discuss start date, work authorization timelines, relocation, etc.
- Negotiate salary, benefits, or other terms if desired.
- Get full offer in writing before accepting.
- Review and sign contract.
- Submit resignation to current employer if applicable.
- Start visa process with HR department.
Make sure you understand and agree with all the offer terms before accepting. Clarify anything you’re unsure about.
Sample Job Offer Email
A job offer email may look something like this:
Dear [Your name],
We are delighted to offer you the position of [job title] at [company name], starting on [start date]. This is a full-time position based in [location] reporting to [manager].
Your starting salary will be [$XXX,XXX] annually, with eligibility for a bonus of [$X,XXX] per year based on performance targets. Our benefits package includes health, dental and vision insurance, 401k plan, paid time off and holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
This offer is contingent upon your passing a background check and drug screening. It is also contingent on [company name] securing your work authorization visa approval.
Please confirm your acceptance of this offer by [date]. We are thrilled to have you join our team!
Best regards,
[Hiring manager name]
[Company name]
Always get full details in writing before accepting an offer.
Relocate to the US
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to move! Here are key steps when relocating:
- Book travel – Schedule your flight and arrange transport from the airport.
- Find housing – Look for apartments or houses for rent in your new city.
- Ship belongings – Pack and send clothes, files, equipment, etc. via air/sea freight.
- Familiarize yourself – Research details on your new neighborhood, city, state.
- Handle finances – Open a US bank account, get health insurance, transfer funds.
- Say goodbye – Celebrate and keep in touch with friends/family back home.
Relocating to a new country involves many details. Give yourself plenty of time to handle them before your start date.
Average Rent Prices in Major US Cities
City | Average Rent for 1BR Apartment |
---|---|
New York City | $4,000 |
San Francisco | $3,500 |
Boston | $2,200 |
Chicago | $1,600 |
Seattle | $1,900 |
Austin | $1,200 |
Atlanta | $1,500 |
Factor in housing costs when planning your relocation budget.
Understand Your Responsibilities
Once you start working, you’ll want to be knowledgeable about your responsibilities in the US. Here are key things to know:
- Maintain visa status – Follow all requirements for keeping your visa valid.
- Obtain license/SSN – Apply for a driver’s license, Social Security Number, and bank accounts.
- File taxes – You are required to file tax returns reporting your income even on a visa.
- Obey laws – Abide by all federal, state and local laws and regulations.
- Keep passport valid – Make sure your home country passport doesn’t expire while working.
Failure to maintain your visa or other legal responsibilities could jeopardize your ability to remain employed in the US.
US Employment Documents
Documents you’ll need for employment authorization:
Document | Description |
---|---|
Social Security Card | Required for employment, taxes, and benefits |
Driver’s license | For identification and driving (if required for job) |
I-9 form | Employment eligibility verification |
W-4 form | Federal income tax withholding |
ITIN | Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (if no SSN) |
Complete all required paperwork in a timely manner.
Conclusion
Finding a job and relocating to the United States is an exciting opportunity! With preparation and dedication, you can successfully get hired by an American company. The visa application process takes time, so start your job search early. Once hired, handle all the necessary logistics for the transition smoothly. Working hard and immersing yourself in the culture will set you up for an amazing experience.