Migrate to the USA
The world's largest economy with unmatched career opportunities, the highest tech salaries globally, and multiple visa pathways for skilled professionals.
Average tech salary: $120,000+/year
Why the USA?
- World's largest GDP at $28+ trillion — unparalleled job market depth
- Highest tech and engineering salaries globally, often 2–3x European equivalents
- Home to Silicon Valley, Wall Street, and the world's top research universities
- Diverse geography and lifestyle options from coast to coast
- EB-2 NIW allows self-sponsored green cards for exceptional professionals
- Strong entrepreneurial culture with access to venture capital funding
Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | 335 million |
| Official Language | English (de facto; no official language at federal level) |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Federal Minimum Wage | $7.25/hour (many states higher; CA $16.50, WA $16.66) |
| Healthcare | Employer-sponsored insurance; no universal public system; ACA marketplace available |
| Key Immigration Programs | H-1B, L-1, O-1, EB-1/2/3 Green Cards, EB-2 NIW, E-2 Treaty Investor |
Visa Pathways
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
The most common work visa for professionals in IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare. Requires a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) and employer sponsorship. Subject to an annual lottery with 85,000 slots. Valid for 3 years, extendable to 6 years, with further extensions if a green card petition is pending.
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)
For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, business, education, or athletics. No annual cap and no lottery. Requires evidence of sustained national/international acclaim such as awards, publications, high salary, or media recognition.
EB-2 / EB-3 Green Cards
Employment-based green cards through employer sponsorship. EB-2 is for professionals with advanced degrees; EB-3 for skilled workers with bachelor's degrees. The process involves PERM labour certification, I-140 petition, and I-485 adjustment. Timelines vary by country of birth — 1–3 years for most nationalities.
EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
A self-petition pathway that bypasses the employer sponsor and PERM process. Ideal for researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals whose work has substantial merit and national importance. No job offer required at the time of filing.
Cost of Living Snapshot
| Expense | SF / NYC | Austin / Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed Apartment (City) | $2,800–4,000/mo | $1,300–1,900/mo |
| Groceries (Monthly) | $400–600 | $300–450 |
| Health Insurance (Employee Share) | $100–300/mo | $100–300/mo |
| Internet (Fibre) | $50–80/mo | $50–70/mo |
In-Demand Jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the H-1B visa lottery work?
The H-1B is a specialty occupation visa with an annual cap of 85,000 (including 20,000 reserved for US master's degree holders). USCIS runs a random lottery each March for the following fiscal year. If selected, your employer files a petition. The registration fee is $215 and your employer must pay a prevailing wage for the role and location.
What is the EB-2 NIW green card?
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability to self-petition for a green card without an employer sponsor. You must demonstrate that your work is of substantial merit, has national scope, and that waiving the job offer requirement benefits the United States. Processing takes 12-18 months on average.
Can I change employers on an H-1B visa?
Yes. Under H-1B portability rules, you can begin working for a new employer as soon as they file a new H-1B petition on your behalf (you don't need to wait for approval). The new employer must pay the prevailing wage and the job must qualify as a specialty occupation.
What are the costs of living in the USA?
The USA has enormous regional variation. Major tech hubs like San Francisco and New York are expensive (rent $3,000+/mo for a 1-bed), while cities like Austin, Raleigh, and Denver offer lower costs with strong job markets. Healthcare costs are the biggest wildcard — most employers provide insurance, but out-of-pocket costs can be significant.
Ready to Move to the USA?
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