Want to Work in the United State? - requirements for foreigners seeking employment in US - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

HR Magazine, Sept, 2000 by Carla Joinson

8. TN-Treaty NAFTA. Allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States in certain professional occupations (see NAFTA Appendix 1603.D.1 at www.ins.usdoj.gov/graphics/services/NAFTA/index.htm) for which they are qualified. The occupations generally require post-secondary education, degrees or licenses.

9. 0-1 Alien of Extraordinary Ability. Allows certain individuals with extraordinary ability to work in the United States on a temporary basis. The ability must be documented and substantiated through awards, media attention, major contributions or innovation within their field of expertise, or national/international acclaim. Categories include: scientists, educators, businesspersons and athletes; artists and entertainers not affiliated with film or television; and artists and entertainers affiliated with film or television.

10. 0-1 Cultural exchange. Allows aliens to enter the United States as participants in an international cultural exchange program whose purpose can include practical training and employment as well as the sharing of culture.

Training Options

The Association for International Practical Training (AIPT) in Columbia, Md., is a nonprofit organization that serves as a sponsor for international trainees. AIPT arranges for students or professionals to train at U.S. businesses for up to 18 months. The organization provides guidance on regulatory tracks paperwork and provides placement assistance.

Employers that already have identified a graduating student or trainee can contact AIPT, which then arranges a J-1 visa for the participant in about four to six weeks. If employers have a position open for which they need an employee they can post the position electronically on www.pinpointtraining.org, org, AIPT's online placement site, and also search the site for available candidates.

Elizabeth Chazottes AIPT's executive director says that replies to postings may take weeks--or just minutes An interesting position will be filled quickly," she says Otherwise, employers may need to wait several weeks for a student."

AIPT does not charge to post a position but once a person has been identified, it does charge a $1 000 program fee for making visa arrangements. Chazottes says the employer or the trainee can pay this fee She recommends that employers pay the fee up front to expedite the process If the employer desires AIPT also can arrange health insurance for the trainee for $45 a month.

AIPT can be reached by phone at (410) 997-2200 or through its web site at www.aipt.org.