1. Types of Visas for Working in the United States
1.1 H-1B Work Visa
Who can get it: For highly skilled professionals, often working in fields such as IT, engineering, science, and finance. A bachelor's degree or higher is required.
How to get it: The employer must apply for the visa on behalf of the employee.
Validity: Up to 3 years, extendable up to 6 years.
1.2 L-1 Visa (for intra-company transfers)
Who can get it: For employees of international companies who are transferring to a branch of the company in the United States.
How to get it: The employer applies for a visa to transfer the employee.
Validity: Up to 7 years, depending on the position.
1.3 O-1 Work Visa
Who can get it: For people with outstanding achievements in science, art, sports, or business.
How to get it: Evidence of your achievements, such as awards, publications, and recognition in your field, is required.
1.4 H-2A and H-2B Visas (Seasonal Workers)
H-2A: For agricultural workers performing seasonal work.
H-2B: For non-agricultural seasonal workers such as in hospitality, construction, etc.
1.5 F-1 Student Visa
OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows F-1 students to work for 12 months after completing their studies in a field related to their major. An additional 24-month extension of OPT is available for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) majors.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Allows students to work while they are studying, if it is related to their curriculum. Work may be part-time during school and full-time during vacations.
2. Job Search in the USA
2.1 Popular Job Search Sites
Indeed: One of the largest job posting sites in all industries.
LinkedIn: A social network for professionals that allows you to search for vacancies, connect with employers, and apply online.
Glassdoor: A platform where you can not only search for a job, but also read employee reviews of companies and get information on salaries.
Monster: A popular job search site that includes offers from various employers.
USAJOBS: The official site for searching for vacancies in US government agencies.
Dice: A specialized platform for searching for vacancies in the information technology (IT) sector.
2.2 Important Documents for a Job Search
Resume: In the US, a resume is usually short (1-2 pages), it should highlight your work experience, achievements, and skills.
Cover Letter: Be sure to include a personalized cover letter when applying. In it, state why you are suitable for this job.
References: Some employers may ask for references from previous employers or professors.
3. Preparing for the Interview
3.1 Preparation Tips
Research the Company: Learn as much as you can about the company to demonstrate your interest and knowledge.
Practice Answering Questions: Typical questions may include discussing your experience, strengths, weaknesses, and career goals.
Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: It is important to ask questions about the company, culture, and role to demonstrate your interest in the position.
3.2 Popular Interview Formats
Telephone Interview: This is usually the first stage to test your background and interest.
Video Calls (Zoom, Skype): Increasingly used in stages before the face-to-face meeting.
Face-to-face Interview: The final stage where you meet potential co-workers and managers.
4. Legal Requirements for the Job4.1 Social Security Number (SSN)
What it is: A Social Security Number is required to legally work in the United States. You must provide it when you apply for a job so that taxes can be withheld from your wages.
How to get it: If you have work authorization, contact your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office to apply for an SSN.
4.2 Tax Status
Your employer is required to withhold taxes from your wages (federal, state, and local taxes). You will need to fill out Form W-4 to provide your tax information.
At the end of the year, you will receive Form W-2, which you will use to file your tax return with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service).
5. Worker Rights
5.1 Minimum Wage
The federal minimum wage in the United States is $7.25 per hour, but some states and cities have higher wages (for example, California and New York have significantly higher minimum wages).
5.2 Working Hours and Overtime
The standard working hours in the United States are 40 hours per week. Work beyond this time is paid at an overtime rate of 1.5 times the regular hourly rate.
5.3 Vacation and Sick Leave
There is no federal law in the United States that requires employers to provide paid vacation, but many companies provide paid vacation days and sick leave. Terms vary by employer.
5.4 Ddiscrimination and safety at work
Employers in the United States are required to follow laws to prevent discrimination in the workplace based on race, gender, age, religion, and other factors (under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates workplace safety and health.
6. Career Advancement6.1 Networking
Making contacts in the United States is an important part of career advancement. Attend professional events, trade shows, and conferences. Platforms such as LinkedIn can help you connect with potential employers and colleagues.
6.2 Education and Certification
Some professions require additional certification or licensing to work in the United States. For example, medical professionals, lawyers, and engineers must be licensed to work in their fields.
Attending continuing education courses or obtaining additional certifications can improve your chances of career advancement.
Working in the United States offers many opportunities for professional growth, but it is important to understand visa requirements, know the labor market, and prepare for the employment process.