In the year 2021, about 1.8 million temporary workers and their families migrated to the United States, often with the goal of offering financial support to their families back in their home countries. These individuals were involved in a variety of professions, covering fields from healthcare to construction and more. Explore information about common jobs for immigrants and find insights into securing such positions.
Common Work in USA Jobs for Immigrants?
Approximately 17% of the U.S. workforce is comprised of immigrants who hold diverse positions across various sectors. While certain industries, such as administrative services, construction, hospitality, and agriculture, exhibit a higher concentration of immigrant workers.
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Common occupations for immigrants encompass roles like manicurists, agricultural product sorters, plasterers, sewing machine operators, and housekeepers. In the tech realm, computer science stands out as a popular field among immigrants, driven by the substantial demand for skilled professionals, especially in Bay Area cities like San Francisco and Oakland, as well as nationwide.
Migrants establish homes throughout the United States, with some states serving as more prominent destinations for these workers. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data indicates that California hosts the largest temporary worker immigrant populations, followed by New York, Texas, and Florida.
Foreign Immigrant Job Opportunities – Find a Job?
The majority of U.S. visas are employment-based, requiring you to secure a job as part of your eligibility to work in the U.S.
Your prospective employer must obtain permission to hire individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Start by applying for positions with employers already possessing this certification or those willing to apply for the suitable candidate.
If you’re applying from abroad, the U.S. embassy in your home country may provide information about upcoming job fairs or companies seeking labor.
Several U.S. websites can assist in your search for immigrant jobs.
For seasonal or temporary roles in industries like agriculture and construction, the Department of Labor offers a job search portal.
If you hold a higher education qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree, explore Upwardly Global, a non-profit organization aiding recent immigrants in restarting their careers in the U.S.
The Immigration Welcome Center in Indianapolis is another non-profit resource for immigrants, offering an interactive map of English classes, legal services, and job listings.
USA Hello is a valuable resource, providing tips on job searches, resume building, and guidance on earning a U.S. high school diploma.
Utilize U.S. job search websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster, and ZipRecruiter to find opportunities. Use the search term “visa sponsorship” to identify employers willing to sponsor applicants for a visa.
Visa Requirements for Working in the U.S.?
Visa requirements differ based on whether you are seeking a temporary visa, known as a non-immigrant visa, or a permanent visa, commonly referred to as a green card.
For those pursuing a temporary H-2 visa, the initial step involves securing a job offer from a U.S. company. Subsequently, complete the online form DS-160, with no associated filing fee.
Upon obtaining a confirmation number from the form, create an account on USTravelDocs. At this stage, you will be required to pay a Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee to proceed with your application.
After establishing your profile and making the payment, you will be guided to either schedule an appointment at a U.S. embassy or submit your documents by mail.
Documents you need to send will include:
- Copy of Form I-797B (this is the form your employer should have to allow you to work in the U.S.)
- The DS-160 confirmation page
- Passport with a minimum of six months validity as well as previously used passports or visas
- A 2 inch by 2 inch ( 5 centimeters by 5 centimeters) color photograph on a white background.
Work in USA – Where Can I Find Help as a New Immigrant?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a guide to settling in the U.S., so that’s a good place to start. It covers everything from how to get a job, to which days are Federal holidays and how the healthcare system works.
If you’re looking for legal services, the National Immigrant Justice Center offers advice on immigrants’ rights and legal consultations for low-income immigrants.
For financial tips, Remitly has some great information on everything from how to file your taxes to how to send money from the U.S. back home.
Once you’re settled, you may be able to find help and advice from within the immigrant community in your city or through social media.
