How to Temporarily Work in America by Applying for an H1B Visa

How to Temporarily Work in America by Applying for an H1B Visa

Leaving your home country is a humble and life-changing experience. Your view on certain aspects eventually changes and you grow. 

Maybe you are tired of your current routine. Do you want to do something more adventurous by doing something different? Are you willing to learn and adjust to another county?  

America is one of the greatest hotspots in tourism. Nearly 80 million international travelers visit the country each year. 

While the desire to travel is fun and worthwhile, it is expensive. Earning money and reducing costs by applying for an H-1B visa can make a huge difference. You’ll even get to stay longer legally as you earn in the process. 

Traveling Around the World 

One country may be known for its beaches. Another may be known for its’ food or climate.

America is the biggest melting pot in the world. There is an adventure for someone depending on the state visit. 

You could marvel at nature by going to the mountains, parks or the beach. You could go to the theme parks or the casinos if you enjoy entertainment. 

People travel short term by going on trips to get away from responsibly, even if it is for a short time. Worries are packaged away and freedom replaces it. Shopping and sight-seeing are reasons people venture to new places.

People travel long term for similar reasons, but it is different. A better insight or a new skill is gained by staying in a different location long term. 

What is your reason to travel? Are you interested in long or short term trips? Do you want to see if you can make it somewhere else while enjoying what a country, like America, has to offer?  

Finding Jobs in the US 

You could hit two birds with a stone by working to satisfy the cost of living as you explore new places. 

Maybe you are interested in speaking or learning a different language such as English. Or you dream of becoming a teacher to build your career or start a new one. 

Perhaps the income you will make in America is better compared to your home country. In that case, you wish to earn money to save for personal reasons or better provide for your family. The big dream could even be to move to America completely.

Whatever your reason is to come to America, there is a process that must be filled to legally work there.

H-1B Visa 

H-1B visas are given to those who are no legal citizens or residents of America. It allows educated individuals to work in the US for three years.

There is an annual cap of about 65,000 H-1B visas given each year. This number changes and is determined by Congress,

If desired, the visa can be extended once for a maximum stay of 6 years. Renewal is only granted of the worker stays to work with their sponsor or another sponsor. In the ladder case, a Change of Employer form must be completed and accepted. 

The minimum level of education you should have is a bachelor’s degree. There are various specialized jobs that are accepted such as law, education, writing, math, biology, architecture, and chemistry. Those who major in geology, medication, engineering, business, psychology, computer science, and agriculture also qualify. 

Working in America: H-1B Visa Process 

Every country has its own rules on what other countries are allowed to visit and exit the country through passport visas. Most people are able to travel to just about any county for leisure. Rules are much stricter when you want to work outside your homeland. 

Working in America without the proper visa can result in heft fines and confinement. A bond will likely be placed. If such a case occurs, you will need to determine your immigration bond eligibility in order to be released. 

If you wish to work in America the right and legal way, you will need to obtain an H-1B visa and adhere to the steps involved in order to be eligible. Missing even a step in the process could cause the Embassy to deny the application. 

Qualifications on How to Get a Work Visa  

Have a Job Lined Up: Before you can begin the application, you are required to submit documents from an employer who will sponsor you

Approved Labor Certification from the DOL (Department of Labor): This certification is filled out by your sponsor and is proof the sponsor requires foreign workers. It ensures nonresidents staying in America have no negative impact on job opportunities from residents. 

Accepted Petition by the USCIS (U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services): This is also completed by your sponsor after labor certification approval. They should submit an I-129 form, which is a petition to grant work to nonimmigrants. 

Completed Labor Condition Application (RTA-9035) form: This shows wages will not harm other employees. The form is done by your employer too. 

Resume: This strengthens your application and shows your work history

Travel Itinerary: Provides proof you are financially able to enter and leave the U.S

Application Requirements 

  • Have a Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid during your stay and must not expire for another six months once you leave. 
  • Visa Picture: Ideally you will want to make copies and attach one with the application
  • Proof of Return Home: Unless you are renewing, you cannot stay on an expired visa
  • Application Fee: Petition based is $190, Non-petition-based is $160, Traders or Australian Professional pay is $205, and Spouse/Fiance of an American citizen pay is $265
  • Completed I-129 Form 
  • Confirmation of completed Nonimmigrant Visa Application 

H-1B Visa Processing Time 

Standard H-1B visa processing time is between 3 months to a year. If you are willing to pay for expedited service, it could be approved within 1-15 calendar days. 

Create and Attend Interview 

Once all requirements are satisfied, you will be asked to come in for an interview. This should be scheduled as soon as possible to prevent delays. Those under 13 or over 80 are generally exempt from this.

Questions asked should be answered completed and honestly. False information will result in denial.  

Have Fun in the Process

You may want to work in America to have fun and better yourself or help your family. Getting an H-1B visa takes time and dedication. From the time you are ready to begin the journey you should enjoy the process up until the end. 

You could decide to return home after the incredible experience. You could decide to live there long term and plan to become a US resident. 

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