What are your advises for looking a job from an immigrant in USA?
Hi there,
I would like to know your thoughts and advises about getting a job being immigrant in the USA.
Context:
- I live in México with my wife, who is a software engineer (SWE) and got an offer from a USA company (visa sponsorship) and we want to take the opportunity.
- Since I'm a SWE too (8 YoE), I want to get a job in the USA too!
- But my visa will not let me work in the USA.
I'm thinking that I could:
- Start looking for jobs with visa sponsorship.
- Prepare for interviews.
What do you think about it?
Are there resources that you would recommend me (about anything related)?
Thanks for reading me!
Discussion
(5 comments)- 3
3 months agoThoughtful TarodactylTaro CommunityYou could look into getting a masters and then work via OPT. Very common path for most people. In the mean time your wife can try to get her employer to file an I-140
An I140 is an application your employer submits which is the first step to permanent residency in the US. Once your wife gets that approved she can file an EAD for you which will give the spouse of a partner (you) and kids under 21 unrestricted access to work.
Worst case if your wife cannot get an I140 you can still get a masters and try to get an H1B
On I140 there's no limit to cap on how long you can stay in the US. Eventually your I140 app will come up and you'll get the permanent residency
I'm not an expert please double check anything written here. Good luck!
- 33 months agoMid-Level Software Engineer at Delinea
The best benefit of moving to the USA is you will grow a lot in your career. Keep in mind you might lose some of your personal relationships back in Mexico.
Living on a visa has some challenges too. When switching jobs you have to make sure the new employer sponsors your H1-B visa or whatever visa you're on. If you're on F1/ student visa then after you graduate then you'll get 3 chances of getting selected in H1-B in 3 years. H1-B selection is a lottery based. As of 2024 there is 5% chance of your application being selected. This getting less every year.
If your employer is sponsoring L1 visa then you can't switch jobs. You will have to stay with your employer until you get green card/ permanent residency.
The above information is just few things which I think you should know. Remember that the immigration process in the USA is complex it's better to consult with an immigration attorney before moving to USA
- 03 months agoSenior Software Engineer [OP]Unemployed
Hey, thank you for your answer!
Good to know the H1B option, and thanks for your advises for my wife!
- 33 months agoTech Lead/Manager at Meta, Pinterest, Kosei
I'm very, very bullish on moving to the US - your career will skyrocket!
It's harder, but definitely possible, to get a job with visa sponsorship. Since you have a lot of experience, I'd recommend applying for these jobs directly. You have the luxury of time since your wife is working and presumably can support you for a few months -- I'm confident with enough networking/side projects/interview prep, you'd find something great.
The other option as suggested is to do a master's degree, but this feels like a roundabout solution if you don't actually want the degree.
- 23 months agoSenior Software Engineer [OP]Unemployed
Thanks!
Yes, I believe it's viable to me getting a job (hard, but not too hard).
Given the free trade agreement between México, USA and Canada, as mexican I have the TN2 visa option too, not the best friendly for the green card but it's still a starting point.
Once I have some updates, I will comment in this post for everyone in the future
