Forum - Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

Hi, I'm an international student from Japan. After graduation, which is one and a half years later, I would like to stay here and get a job for good. Before I finish my school, I would like to get a greencard if possible. Or do I need to be employed to apply it? And also what is the best way for an international student like me to get a job here?

Please give me some advice.

From: Mayumi Yamada


ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Mayumi -

First things first. Most employers will look to hire you on a training visa first (typically F-1 or J-1), then convert you to an H-1, then only initiate the green card (permanent resident) process after that point. The entire process can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years, depending on the employer.

Yes, you do need to have an employer sponsor you for the visas listed above and for your green card. The training visas are not employer-specific, but the H-1 is tied directly to the employer and the green card requires a sponsoring employer if you are applying through the employment route (vs. political assylum, etc.).

And not all employers are interested in sponsoring. Or they may sponsor you for your initial training visa (which is usually low cost and little documentation), but back away from further visa sponsorship. It is an important question for you to ask prospective employers. But keep in mind that you don't have to have just one employer carry you through the entire process.

The best way to get a job here in the U.S. is to work through the Placement Office at your school/university. This is always the best starting point in your job search. But make sure you do your part to put in personal effort in your job search above and beyond what is handed to you there.

Overall, make sure you sell your value before you ask for anything (including sponsorship) in return.

Brian Krueger
Author of College Grad Job Hunter

Back to the Job Search Forum