Working in the USA
8th June, 2019
America is synonymous with the migrant, through the famous images of boatloads full of hopeful newcomers hoping to live the ‘American Dream’. No matter what dream you’re chasing, you’ll need a US visa to enter and work in America.
US Visa Categories
The first thing you need to do is choose the visa category which applies to you. There are two types:
- Non-Immigrant Visa Categories: These visa types are for expats who are seeking to work in America, but don’t wish to settle there permanently. There are various categories of this type, so choose the one which best suits your needs
- Immigrant Visa Categories: This category is for expats that are seeking to immigrate to the US permanently. The famous, Green Card fall into this category. Find a list of ways to get a Green Card.
Once you have selected the appropriate visa, you need to compile the necessary documentation, including:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Tax returns for the last three years
- Academic records
- Police check report
- Previous passports
- Recent passport photograph
- Bank statements for the previous six months of medical examination reports.
Applying for a US Visa
- To apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa category, you need to complete Form DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application and schedule a visa interview with your closest US embassy.
- If you are applying for an Immigrant category, you need to submit an initial application to USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Service), if you are approved you’ll then need to complete Form DS-260 Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration and Schedule a visa interview appointment with your closest US embassy or consulate.
You can learn more about the visa process here.
Work Culture in America
The work culture of America and Australia are similar, although there are a few differences. In a business setting, communication is abrupt, and time-wasting is not appreciated. Despite this abruptness, communication style is informal.
When greeting someone, you should use their title, so if you’re talking to the CEO or President of a company make sure you include that title. You only have to do this the first time you meet a superior, after that it’s okay to use their first name.
Working hours will be the same, with overtime expected and some offices offering flexible working hours. You should take your cue from your colleagues on how to dress but always dress formally for your first day.
Socialising is a major part of business in America, so get ready to spend plenty of time with your colleagues and clients.
Finding Work in America
Luckily for expats, the US Government provides an extensive range of resources that will help you find and secure employment:
- Occupational Outlook Handbooks: this contains a wealth of information on various occupations in America, and provides details on responsibilities, educational requirements, growth rates, median pay, and more.
- Regional and Local Resources: the United States Department of Labor facilitates a wide range of employment programs and services.
The US Department of Labor Women’s Bureau also publishes information specific to women in the workforce and covers areas such as pregnancy and breastfeeding, paid leave entitlements and equal pay.
If you are planning on moving with family read our guide on transportation & housing , education & childcare in USA. Or if you are just an avid traveller exploring the nature and the concrete skyscrapers read our top 5 things to know when in America.
If you’d like any further information about USA, or the relocation process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly international removals team.
Blog Author:
