Hiring a foreign citizen for a project in the USA? This means you’ll have to apply for a work permit on their behalf.
We explore exactly what this entails, along with some key reasons why the USA is an advantageous location for projects and candidates, below…
Why choose the USA?
The USA boasts a number of attractive traits as a work location:
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour
The 13th month payment isn’t applicable
40-hour working week
There’s no entitlement to paid holidays, however most employers will offer some – the amount varies, but the average is around 10 days
Sick pay is dependent on the specific state
The taxation system is also beneficial:
Income tax system: Income tax is progressive, with higher tax rates for those with more taxable income. The US has graduated tax brackets, varying from 10% to 37%.
Inheritance tax: While there’s no federal inheritance tax, the US government does impose estate taxes for large estates. Six states charge inheritance tax – Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Property tax: There’s no federal level property tax, though property taxes do apply in most states. These are based on the value of the property in question.
Which visa should you choose?
The USA has a wide range of work permit types. The key temporary ones include:
H-1B: Person in Specialty Occupation
This is for those working in a specialty occupation. It requires the minimum of a Bachelor’s degree – or equivalent experience – in said profession. Validity is up to 3 years, though it can be extended, typically not beyond a total of 6 years.
H-1B1: Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Professional – Chile, Singapore
This is for nationals from Chile or Singapore working in a specialty occupation. The worker needs to have a post-secondary degree that involves at least 4 years of study in the specific field. It’s valid for 1 year, with two extensions allowed in yearly increments.
H-2B: Temporary Non-agricultural Worker
This is for those carrying out temporary or seasonal non- agricultural work. Eligibility is limited to only citizens or nationals of designated countries. There is a maximum stay period of 3 years.
O: Individual with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement
This is for those who have extraordinary ability or achievement in science, art, education, business, or athletics. The stay period is up to 3 years.
What documents are required?
The majority of applicants for temporary work visas require an approved petition, which must be filed by the employer on their behalf. The process may also involve an interview and various documentation, such as:
Passport with at least 6 months beyond the worker’s period of stay
Photo of the applicant
Proof of intention to return to home country with evidence of ties, like:
Residence abroad
Family relationships
Economic situation
Long-term plans
Apply for a US work visa with WRS
The USA’s work permit has a lot of complexities, which is why WRS are here to help you apply on your worker’s behalf. Having supported many employers through the lengthy process, we know what challenges to expect – and how to solve them.
We’re fully registered to provide tax services and managed payroll in the USA. And thanks to our payroll and online timesheet portal, approval and timesheet submission is easy – guaranteeing employees are paid on time, and in the right currency, every time.
Looking to streamline global mobilisation? Contact our team today.
Disclaimer: Worldwide Recruitment Solutions does not provide visa, immigration or taxation advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended and should not be relied upon for visa, immigration or taxation advice. You should consult with a qualified immigration professional or the official government website of the country you're applying to for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
