If you’re an international employee interested in working in the United States, consider applying for an H-1B visa. This authorization allows people in specialty fields to work in the U.S. for up to six years. Because only specific employers offer H-1B sponsorships, you can refine your job search to ensure you apply to companies that support international candidates.
In this article, we explain what an H-1B visa is, discuss the importance of finding companies that offer sponsorships and share steps that can help international employees find work in the U.S., followed by a brief list of jobs that commonly sponsor candidates for this visa.
Salary figures reflect data listed on Indeed Salaries at time of writing. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organization and a candidate’s experience, academic background and location.
What is an H-1B visa?
An H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant work visa that allows foreign employees to work in the U.S. temporarily. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provides H-1B visas through an extensive application process. These visas generally apply to specialty roles requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher and are valid for three years, though candidates can extend them for up to six years. An H-1B visa not only improves productivity by allowing companies to work with industry experts regardless of their nation of origin but can also enhance diversity and inclusion practices.
Why is it important to find companies that sponsor H-1B visas?
An H-1B visa can help individuals find employment in the U.S. who don’t otherwise have the appropriate authorization. Because only certain companies sponsor the H-1B, finding the right employer can streamline the authorization process. Companies that sponsor H-1B visas often have departments dedicated to assisting candidates with the visa application process and providing supporting documentation when necessary. Small and large organizations across industries like health care, law, technology, science, finance and education offer H-1B visa sponsorship, giving you various employment options during your international job search.
How to find jobs that sponsor H-1B visas
Here’s how to find jobs that sponsor H-1B visas:
1. Determine your area of expertise
Organizing your goals and identifying your top skills can help you determine the jobs for which you’re eligible. For many H-1B visa candidates, their major area of academic study is what determines their professional niche. If you’re still in the process of completing a bachelor’s program or a higher degree, consider how your current or future studies align with your long-term employment goals. You may consult with a career counselor to ensure that you’re working toward your international work goals efficiently.
2. Determine your list of ideal employment opportunities
Consider making a list of the general types of companies you might want to work for, such as a research analysis group or a large technology company. Look for organizations that are not only in your industry but also offer competitive compensation packages and other workplace benefits. This strategy can help you narrow your job search and apply to relevant employers who offer H-1B sponsorships.
3. Begin with a basic internet search
Using search engines can help you find infographics and list-style articles of businesses that support and sponsor H-1B visa candidates. Alternatively, you can explore online databases or websites that have information specific to H-1B visa opportunities. You can use this search process to create a list of specific companies or agencies to which you want to apply.
4. Consider internships
If you’re a recent graduate or are still completing your degree, consider seeking H-1B visa-sponsored internship opportunities. You may find these opportunities by attending virtual job fairs, using online H-1B visa job databases and applying directly to U.S. companies that have internship vacancies. International students who already have F-1 student visas might be able to transition from internships to full-time roles that sponsor H-1B visas.
5. Work for multinational companies
While living in your country of origin, consider working for multinational companies like global consulting firms. These types of organizations have clients in many countries, including the U.S., and may offer networking opportunities that can help you obtain H-1B sponsorship. An international employer might also be able to transfer you to a position in the U.S. and provide resources to assist with the application process.
6. Apply to multiple companies
Once you identify companies that sponsor H-1B visas, consider applying to as many as possible. This approach may increase your chances of obtaining an offer. You can inform recruiters of your intention to obtain an H-1B visa, which allows them enough time to assist you with your application.
Jobs that commonly sponsor H-1B visa candidates
While this list isn’t exhaustive, the H-1B visa status primarily applies to individuals in specialty fields. Below is a list of several jobs that commonly accept H-1B visa candidates. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, visit indeed.com/salaries.
1. Civil engineer
National average salary: $85,400 per year
Primary duties: A civil engineer creates innovative design solutions for architectural elements. They design bridges, buildings, tunnels and roads to satisfy client requirements while adhering to local, state and federal safety regulations. Civil engineers often collaborate with contractors, project managers and other engineers to finalize and implement their designs.
2. Software engineer
National average salary: $108,722 per year
Primary duties: A software engineer develops, edits and processes complex coding to create computer software programs, apps and online platforms. Additional duties include working alongside project managers and team members to create innovative solutions that meet clients’ software needs. Software engineers can also help correct software malfunctions and create automation for repetitive business tasks.
3. Physician
National average salary: $154,961 per year
Primary duties: A physician is a medical doctor who works in an independent care setting or as a part of a medical organization, such as a hospital. The primary duties of a physician include creating patient care plans for acutely or chronically ill patients, delivering preventative medical intervention services and prescribing necessary medications and diagnostic tests. Physicians can also refer patients to specialists to assist in the management of their long-term care. The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates can help international physicians obtain the proper certification to work in the U.S.
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