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For many people, it is a dream to work in the USA. If you are a foreign national looking to work in the USA, you need to be well-acquainted with the processes to acquire a work visa and permit.
Different countries have different customs and regulations. Finding work in USA will be different from finding a job in your home country. However, you can find work in USA with a knowledge of all the available options, application procedures, and a strong determination.
As per the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics studies, the unemployment rate in the USA is the lowest since 2007. There are many available job prospects in the USA for international job applicants.
The average salary in the USA varies across its states. Some popular states to work in USA with a higher annual average income include Hawaii (~₹2,56,84,933), California (~₹89,86,323), New York (~₹94,53,068), Colorado (~₹67,73,752), and Florida (~₹67,32,320).
This article will give you detailed information on how to find a work in USA, the various requirements, and the process.
How to Work in USA: Prerequisite
Working in any foreign country requires you to meet their essential requirements first. To work in USA, you primarily need the essential educational qualifications.
Work in USA: Educational Qualifications
The USA highly values quality education. Hence, the first thing will be to get the proper educational qualifications required for the work you are interested in.
If you are applying for any specialised occupation like physician, architect, engineer, or teacher, you have to be specialised in your field of work. Although the minimum qualification could be a bachelor's degree, having a master's in your field will boost the probability of getting a good job.
If you do not have an undergraduate, you can qualify for several jobs based on job-related work experience. In case you are a beginner wanting to work in USA, you can qualify for jobs at the GS-2 level with a high school diploma alone.
It will be easier to bag better job opportunities with a degree from a reputed university and some years of work experience.
In addition to your degree, employers in the USA prefer to hire individuals who demonstrate fluent English and the ability to read and write in the language with a strong command over it.
To demonstrate your English competency, you must clear one of the English Language Proficiency Tests like IELTS or TOEFL in order to work in USA.
The basic eligibility requirements before planning how to work in USA are as follows:
- A bachelor’s degree from a reputed university in India or abroad
- Relevant work experience in the field
- A strong command over the English language, both written and spoken
- Personal and professional references
How to Work in USA: Visa Requirements
Once you fulfill your educational requirements, completing the visa requirements is next. The essential documents needed for a work visa application to work in USA are:
- If you apply for a work visa to work in USA, you should have a sponsor.
- If you are applying through an immigration agency, you must have the company documents.
- When applying for an H-1B Visa, a non-immigrant visa, one needs transcripts and relevant degree certificates.
- TOEFL/IELTS scorecard to show English proficiency.
- A job letter from a USA company
Once you find potential job roles to work in USA, you can apply for them. The next step is to tailor your resume to highlight the skills and qualifications needed for the job. The work culture in the USA is open, with proper communication and direct feedback.
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How to Find a Work in USA?
Having essential qualifications for work is the primary objective for your work abroad plan. Finding a job that suits your qualifications and fulfils your aspirations is necessary. Several methods help you to find good work in USA. Some of the aids are given below.
Recruiting Agencies
Job-hunting websites help you to find good work in USA. Numerous sites can connect you to potential employers. However, some of these sites may be paid.
Opting for multiple platforms at a time will increase your chances. You can use filters during your search to refine your choice based on your preferences to work in USA.
Upload a recent resume and tailor it according to your job preferences.
Make sure to visit the sites often and keep yourself updated with job opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to directly get in touch with the HRs of the firm you are applying for.
Some of the popular websites are as follows:
- Indeed
- US.jobs
- CareerBuilder
- Monster
Some of the websites specialised for specific job sectors are given below.
| Job Sector | Website |
|---|---|
| Hospitality Jobs | Hcareers.com, Hospitality Online, LinkUp |
| Sales Job | SalesHeads.com, SalesJobs.com, Sales Gravy |
| Tech Job | Dice, Stack Overflow, GitHub |
| Design Job | Behance, Dribble, Carbonmade, Coroflot |
Job-hunting websites help you get updated job calls from authentic sources.
Official Websites
You can visit their official website for job opportunities if you want to work in any particular company. Most firms post their job calls through their websites.
This could help you to get free access to job calls. Moreover, visiting official websites would help you reach work vacancies on time and get reliable information.
Newspapers
Newspaper classifieds are one of the easiest ways to find good work in the USA. This could help you get free and accurate information regarding job vacancies in the USA.
Networking
Networking is an important step while looking for work in USA. Maintaining a professional network could help you get consistent and updated information regarding work vacancies. You can depend on your friends, family, or colleagues and ask them to pass on any updates regarding job vacancies. Maintain a healthy and stable network to get updated information.
How to Work in USA: Understanding Job Market
It is important to familiarise yourself with the American job market to understand the hiring of top companies and prospective organisations to understand how to work in USA.
Education, service, and health sectors are the booming work sectors in the USA. Other popular sectors include the TIMES market. TIMES stands for the Telecommunication, Information Technology, Multimedia, Entertainments, and Security Services market.
Service Sector
The US economy has the service sector as its central pillar. Almost 80% of Americans work in the service sector. This includes the insurance business, trade, transportation, banking, media, communication, education, and information sectors.
Some of the popular jobs in the service industry and their average annual earnings are given below.
| Job Position | Average Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Call Centre Representative | ₹25,27,318 |
| Bank Teller | ₹26,71,625 |
| Flight attendant | ₹29,56,766 |
| Hairstylist | ₹37,85,478 |
| Hotel Manager | ₹42,16,332 |
The service sector opens up several job opportunities for international job applicants with comparatively fewer educational requirements.
High-Tech Industries
The technical sector of the USA is one of the highest-paying fields. Silicon Valley is known for the high-tech industries that greatly contribute to the American economy. All the world-renowned large tech firms, such as Google, Apple, Facebook, Adobe, etc., are present here. The high-tech hubs can also be found in Seattle with Microsoft, Washington, DC, and Amazon.
Some of the popular job roles in the technical field include careers in management, development, data, and security.
The table below shows the average annual income for top jobs in the USA’s technical industry.
| Job Position | Average Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Development operations manager | ₹56,04,161 |
| Business intelligence analyst | ₹69,88,517 |
| Information technology manager | ₹75,59,543 |
| Network security engineer | ₹89,95,337 |
| Software architect | ₹1,10,28,373 |
The world of technology is rapidly growing and evolving at a fast pace. The technical field opens up several new opportunities to cope with these advancements.
Research & Development
The USA is also famous for its Research and Development (R&D) sector. It is home to over 100 companies in the pharmaceutical research and medical field and development sector. Oil giants like ExxonMobil in Houston, Texas, are also in the South.
Some of the top-paid jobs in the sector are given below.
| Job Position | Average Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Forensic scientist | ₹49,87,817 |
| Biologist | ₹65,95,042 |
| Scientist | ₹76,12,139 |
| Pharmacologist | ₹82,02,186 |
| Economist | ₹90,23,537 |
The fast-growing field of research and development opens multiple career options for foreign students and job applicants to work in USA.
Popular Jobs in the USA
The United States of America has a broad job market with many job opportunities. Most of the high-salaried job in the USA requires higher educational qualifications and levels of experience. However, they are different from the popular jobs in the country.
The most popular jobs in the USA come under its service sector. These jobs are popular for their wide and diverse openings. They also require comparatively less sophisticated work skills. So, they are easier to get.
Some of the most popular jobs in the USA and their salaries are given below.
| Job Position | Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sales Representative | ₹76,95,415 |
| Office Clerks | ₹30,90,405 |
| Cashiers | ₹28,55,131 |
| General managers | ₹50,87,302 |
| Fast-food workers | ₹29,01,441 |
| Registered nurses | ₹1,01,86,926 |
| Freight and stock movers | ₹30,44,425 |
| Secretaries | ₹33,29,318 |
| Customer service representatives | ₹33,10,380 |
Finding work in USA in the popular job sectors could be much easier compared to others due to the higher number of work opportunities available.
Best Paid Jobs in the USA
On average, a fully employed worker in the USA earns $59,428 (~₹49,14,547). Some top-paying jobs in the USA and their approximate annual wage pay are given below.
| Job Position | Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesiologists | ₹2,80,84,897 |
| General Surgeons | ₹2,16,09,187 |
| Obstetricians/Gynecologists | ₹2,23,36,760 |
| Psychiatrists | ₹2,38,24,488 |
| Lawyer | ₹1,12,60,339 |
| Sales Managers | ₹88,24,650 |
| Chief Executive Officer | ₹3,43,64,284 |
| Petroleum Engineers | ₹83,78,497 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | ₹95,92,992 |
Most of the top-paying jobs in the USA require good educational qualifications and levels of experience. Focus on the requirements of your dream career and plan accordingly.
Average Salary in USA: State-wise
There are many factors to consider while getting work in USA. Where you live in the USA can determine your living cost and wages.
The average living wage in the USA varies across its states. A state’s cost of living determines its average income. For instance, the living cost of the East Coast and West Coast of the country varies drastically. The average annual salary of an accountant in Florida is ~₹50,12,047 whereas it is ~₹59,15,931 in California.
Given below is the average salary in the top five states of the USA.
| State | Average Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | ₹60,31,955 |
| New York | ₹58,26,865 |
| Washington | ₹56,84,626 |
| California | ₹56,65,605 |
| New Jersey | ₹55,50,656 |
Before applying for your preferred job, ensure you choose the work location that provides the maximum payment and check for the demand for your work in the area.
How to Work In the USA: Steps to Work
To work in USA, the first and foremost requirement is to obtain a permit to live and work in the USA. You must have a valid work visa or a green card so that the opportunities in the American job market become available to you.
Keep reading to know the step-wise procedures to work in USA.
1. Applying for a job in the USA
The first and most important step is to research, using the internet, a list of open positions that interest you and start applying for them. A job application process in the USA includes preparing a good resume/curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter.
Identify the skills in the job description and highlight those in your resume and cover letter to maximise your chances of being interviewed.
Your resume should be chronological and not include personal details like religion, age, signature, or photos. It should include the following:
- Personal details of the applicant, such as name, email address, phone number, etc.
- Career goal
- Education
- Experience
- Skill sets
- Certifications
Tailor your resume according to the job and the company you are applying to work in USA.
2. Regular Follow-up
Once you apply for work in USA, inquire about the current status of your application consistently. Following up displays your motivation to work and professionalism to the employer.
3. Attend the Interview
Before the interview, you must research the company's vision, mission, and job expectations. While giving the interview, highlight your strengths and explain why you chose this firm. Make your points clear and concise. Always remain calm throughout the procedure.
4. Securing a US Visa
Once you get a job offer from a US employee for work in USA, you can apply for a visa. There are many categories, ranges, and types of visas available for the US, so it is important to choose the right one while applying.
How to Work in USA: Types of US Work Visa
There are several types of work visas for the USA. It is essential to know them before applying for a work visa in the USA. The types of visa categories available are described below:
- J-1 Exchange Visitor Program: The J-1 exchange program allows professionals and students to experience American culture and gain work experience. The duration is about 18 months in the USA. This is given to nonimmigrants travelling to the USA as part of an officially approved exchange program in the arts, education, or sciences.
- The L-1 Visa: The L-1 visa is an intra-company transfer USA. visa. It allows a company in the USA to transfer an employee from its foreign offices into the USA. The duration of this is five years.
There are two types of L-1 visas:
- L-1-A visa: The L-1-A Visa is specifically for managers and executives. It is for those who are transferring to their US branch.
- L-1-B visa: The L-1-B Visa is for employees eligible to transfer into the US branch of their office.
- The H-1B Visa: The H-1B Visa is a temporary work permit that allows foreign nationals to work in the USA in any specialty occupation such as Architect, Physician, or Lawyer. The employee needs to be educated and specialised in the field of work. H1B visa is generally valid for three years and can usually be extended for up to six years.
- The H-2B Visa: The H-2B nonimmigrant visa program allows employers to hire foreign workers to perform temporary nonagricultural work, which may be one-time, seasonal, peak load, or intermittent.
- The O-1 Temporary Visa: The O-1 Temporary Visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities or skills in science, arts, athletics, education, business, and motion pictures. To get this visa, you will have to demonstrate your ability in the field. It is also a temporary visa that allows you to come to the USA and continue to perform extraordinary work in the area.
Since now you know about the various work visas provided by the government of the USA, you have to learn the basic differences between an immigrant and a non-immigrant visa.
- Non-immigrant visa: The non-immigrant visa is for professionals looking to temporarily stay in the USA for internships, summer work, business, holiday, or education purposes. Those with non-immigrant visas can’t work without a US work permit. The US Work Permit is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that you obtain after your visa is approved.
- Immigrant visa: The immigrant visa is for professionals who are permanently looking for residency to work and live in the USA. When they enter the country, permanent residence visa holders must also obtain a Green Card, a permanent resident status.
Requirements for USA Work Visa
If you are a foreign national and want to work in the USA, you must first apply for a visa from the US Department of State (DOS), US Embassy, or consulate. There are three conditions that a USA work visa applicant needs to fulfill before applying for the visa. The embassy can deny your visa application if you fulfill these conditions. The conditions are:
- Have a job offer in the US: You can apply for a work visa in the USA only after receiving a job offer from the USA. So, applying for a job and accepting an offer letter is your first requirement.
- Approval from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): If you have an offer letter from any US job firm, you must file a Petition for the USCIS, which needs to be approved by USCIS.
- Certification from the Department of Labor (DOL): Some work visas, such as H-1B, H-1B1, H-2A, and H-2B, require your employer to get an approval certification from the Department of Labor (DOL) before the visa interview. Before applying for your work visa, You must ensure this is fully completed.
The conditions that you should meet and the duration of your work in USA depends on the type of immigration status that is granted to you by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). To ensure your admission to the country, you must follow all the terms of your employment authorisation.
As mentioned above, many types of work visa options are available for immigrants and non-immigrants. You need to identify the one that will best suit you and then apply for the same, after which you will be called in for a visa interview. Once your visa gets approved, you can work in the US per the terms of the authorisation.
Final Thoughts
To work in USA, your first step is to do proper research and assess your skill set to identify your opportunities. Keep updated on the job calls and ensure you meet all the prerequisites, such as educational qualification and training, before starting your journey.
The work culture in the USA is open, with proper communication and direct feedback. Maintain a healthy, job-oriented mindset, which could help you to flourish in your pursuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a work permit cost in the USA?
A US Work Permit costs between $160- $190 (~₹12,160-₹14,440). The amount differs according to your visa requirements. For example, the work permit for a student costs ~₹12,160, whereas a work permit for an Intracompany Transferee is ~₹14,440. There can also be additional fees applicable according to your location. You can contact your nearest US Embassy for more details.
Q. What are the benefits of working in USA?
People often aim to work in the USA to pursue a better life with benefits and opportunities. Some of the reasons for working in the US include a multicultural environment, vast opportunities, potential for earning high, more healthcare benefits, and better living conditions.
Q. What are some of the most in-demand degrees to secure a job in the USA?
The top three in-demand degrees in the USA that increase your chances of getting a job are Engineering, Medicine, and Business Administration. Engineering includes many specialisations, such as electrical, structural, mechanical, and computer science. The role of a physician is well-paid in the USA: A business administration degree has a global scope with great career opportunities in the USA with world-renowned multinational companies like Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Google, and Facebook.
Q. Which are the best states to work in USA?
Massachusetts, California, New Jersey, and Washington are the best states to work in the USA. These states provide better opportunities with higher minimum wage rates of ~$15 (~₹1,240) per hour. These states are also known for hosting good educational institutions.
Q. Which are the well-paid jobs in USA?
The USA is notable for its high average salary. A fully employed worker in the USA earns $59,428 (~₹49,14,547). Some of the well-paid jobs in the USA are Anesthesiologists (~₹2,80,84,897), General Surgeons (~₹2,16,09,187), Obstetricians/Gynecologists (~₹2,23,36,760) and Psychiatrists (~₹2,38,24,488).
Q. Can I work in USA after completing my studies in India?
Yes, you can work in USA after completing your studies in India or any foreign country. In order to get work in USA, first, you will have to apply for a job that suits your qualifications. Once you clear the job interview and receive an offer letter, you can apply for a work visa in the USA.
Q. Can I get a work visa after completing my studies in USA?
Yes, you can work in USA after completing your studies. There are three types of student visas for international students in the USA, F1 Visa, M1 Visa, and J1 Visa. These visas permit students to stay in the US for a limited time after completing their studies. To get temporary work based on your field of study, you can opt for an F1 Visa. This could allow you to stay another year in the USA.
Q. What are some of the popular jobs in the USA?
The popular job sectors where you can easily get a job include the Service, health, IT, and Research and Development sectors. Some of the popular jobs and their salaries are Sales Representatives (~₹76,95,415), Office Clerks (~₹30,90,405), and Cashiers (~₹28,55,131).
Q. Is the average salary for foreign nationals the same in the USA?
Yes, the average salary of foreign nationals remains the same as native workers in the USA. The USA Minimum Wage system assures that all workers in the country receive the same basic payment, irrespective of race or ethnicity. However, your skills and levels of experience determine the salary you receive.
Q. How much time Does It Take to Get a Work Visa in USA?
In general, it takes about three weeks to four months for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process a work permit application. The time taken for your work visa processes will highly depend on the type of visa you applied for. The US student visa (F-1 visa) is one of the fastest to get processed. Depending upon the availability of the dates, it can vary in between 15 days to 2 months.
Q. Can Indian citizens work in USA?
Yes, Indian citizens can work in USA. Being a foreign national, you must initially clear the visa requirements. This includes bagging a job offer and then applying for a work permit. You can opt for your work visa depending on the nature and duration of your work.
Q. What is the average salary in the USA?
The average salary in the USA is $59,428 (~₹49,14,547). The average hourly rate across the country is $28.34 ((~₹2343). Your salary varies across your field of work, work location, level of expertise, and years of experience. Massachusetts, California, New Jersey, and Washington are some states with a higher average income and the highest minimum wage rates.
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