Moving to the United States presents many opportunities, particularly in the job market. Obtaining employment in the U.S. provides access to residency and the opportunity to contribute to the world's largest economy. In 2021, the U.S. boasted a staggering nominal GDP of $22.9 trillion, representing roughly 25% of the global total. The country's attractive salaries and immigration policies make it a highly sought-after destination for skilled professionals across various sectors. This guide aims to provide essential information for those seeking employment in the United States.

1. Who is eligible for official employment?

US companies only hire employees who are legally authorized to work in the country. Illegal employment is strictly prohibited and can result in significant fines. Eligible categories include temporary employees with work permits for specific US companies, permanent employees (green card holders) who can work for any employer, and international students with valid work permits. It's crucial to remember that individuals who have entered the US illegally, as guests, or whose work visas have expired are not permitted to work.

2. How to get a job legally?

To successfully move to the United States for work, foreigners must first secure a job offer from a US company. This involves obtaining an official invitation to work and then submitting an employment petition for relocation. The next step is to obtain a visa, which may require an interview with a consular officer. Navigating this process can be complex, making it highly advisable to consult with an experienced and trusted work visa attorney specializing in employment-based immigration, as their expertise is crucial for a successful outcome.

3. Where can I find job openings?

The most common way to find a job in America is online. This makes it convenient to browse vacancies before moving to the United States and to research any additional requirements in a particular field. Popular English-language platforms like monster.com, craigslist.org, indeed.com, angel.co, and careerbuilder.com allow you to filter vacancies by category.

Social media can also be helpful. Subscribing to relevant groups or pages on sites like linkedin.com can give you a heads-up on niche opportunities. For even more specialized searches, check out careercast.com. And if you're dreaming of a medical career in the US, usajobs.gov is a great resource.

Of course, it's not all about the web. Local newspapers often advertise vacancies, especially in bars, restaurants, shops, and farms. Plus, don't forget about recruitment agencies – they can be a big help in connecting you with the right job.

4. Salary expectations in the USA

The US Department of Labor reported the average hourly wage in early 2022 as $0.23, translating to an annual income of $11,040. This figure is likely inaccurate. The unemployment rate stood at 4%, with record lows in Nebraska (1.7%) and Utah (1.9%). The national minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, a crucial benchmark for migrants estimating their initial income in the US.

States like Hawaii, New York, Arizona, California, and Washington boast higher hourly wages, ranging from $10 to $12. Missouri, Minnesota, Florida, and Ohio offer slightly above the federal minimum, with hourly rates between $7.50 and $8.10. EU citizens with relevant education and experience generally receive more job offers compared to those from CIS countries. Additionally, Americans typically earn more than Europeans in comparable positions.

5. Taxes

US citizens and residents pay income taxes ranging from 10% to 39.6%, depending on their state, income level, and the number of dependents they claim. Individuals and families below a certain income threshold are exempt from paying taxes. Migrants who pay taxes in multiple states may be eligible for partial tax credits with proper documentation.

The US tax system comprises federal, state, and local taxes (city or district). Every resident is obligated to file a tax return. Beyond the standard income tax, Americans typically pay around 100 local taxes annually. These taxes cover a wide range of activities, including construction, air travel, investment growth, highway usage, weddings, sewage disposal, pet registration, and much more.

6. Most popular jobs in the USA

The United States boasts a large labor market with plenty of job opportunities. Many high-paying positions in the US require a college degree and relevant experience. The service sector dominates the US job market. Popular roles include sales representatives, often earning around $108,350 per year; office workers, with an average salary of about $31,000 per year; cashiers, typically earning around $34,250 per year; general managers, with an average salary of approximately $61,000 per year; fast food workers, earning around $34,800 per year on average; registered nurses, a highly in-demand profession with an average salary of $122,200 per year; freight and merchandise transporters, earning around $36,500 per year on average; secretaries, with an average salary of approximately $39,900 per year; and customer service representatives, typically earning around $39,700 per year.

7. Most common jobs for US immigrants

While entry-level positions in the United States are often filled by recent immigrants, there's a growing demand for highly skilled and trained professionals. Recent analyses have shown a persistent shortage of qualified workers in fields like computer science and mathematics, leading to calls for increased immigration in these areas to fuel economic growth. While many newer immigrants, like those who came before, find work in fields like agriculture and construction, their educational backgrounds and origins are increasingly leading them into scientific and technological roles.

8. High-demand careers

The past few years have seen explosive growth in many industries, leading to a significant demand for foreign workers in the United States. Currently, some of the most sought-after positions include programmers across various specializations, medical professionals, construction workers, merchandisers, restaurant and fast-food workers (waiters, cooks, dishwashers, etc.), and seasonal workers (packers, loaders, window installers, farm assistants, housekeepers, harvesters, cleaners, nannies, etc.).

Additionally, managers, translators, foreign language teachers, sales representatives, and drivers continue to find employment opportunities readily available. While still valuable, the demand for factory workers, engineers, economists, and some managerial positions has decreased somewhat.

9. What if I work without a work permit?

Working in the U.S. without a valid work permit is a serious risk. You could face deportation and potentially be barred from re-entering the country for years. This can significantly impact your future immigration goals, whether it's temporary or permanent residency. For example, if you work illegally while on a visitor visa and then apply for a student visa, your application is likely to be denied.

It's crucial to remember that a work permit is necessary, even for short-term or informal jobs. Any unauthorized work, regardless of duration or pay, can have serious immigration consequences down the line.