What Are Common Issues H-1B Immigrants Face in the United States?

 Posted on August 10, 2020 in Immigration

There are many reasons why a person from another country may want to move to the United States, including to care for relatives, obtain a graduate degree, or to find a better occupation. In some cases, though, an individual may be fleeing religious or government persecution. In many cases, life in America can offer them many benefits.

What Is an H-1B Visa?

The U.S. government offers different types of visas for which immigrants can apply if they want to enter the country legally. These include H-1B visas, family-based visas, student visas, employment-based visas, and temporary visas. H-1B visas allow foreign nationals to work in the United States within specialized industries for a temporary period of time. However, applicants must meet specific criteria in order to be eligible for these visas, including a certain level of education.

Upon receiving the H-1B visa, the immigrant can report to work for his or her sponsoring company. After moving to the United States, the employee is allowed to seek employment with a different employer, or transfer to a different company. H-1B visas may be complicated due to certain issues, such as initial approvals and employment transfers. That is why the legal guidance of a skilled immigration lawyer can help ensure a smooth process.

Foreign workers are often in high demand, especially in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. H-1B visas are specifically for employees who have a Bachelor’s degree or hold graduate degrees and are working in specialized fields, such as the following occupations:

• Computer scientists
• Engineers (chemical, mechanical, biomedical)
• Biologists
• Chemists
• Medical doctors
• Architects
• Business/Management executives

Challenges of Adjusting to Life in a New Country

Assimilating to a new country is more than just packing a suitcase and getting on an airplane. It can involve many issues, including learning a new language and culture. The adjustment period after moving to the United States may take weeks or months or even years. It may take a while to feel comfortable in new surroundings and get used to everyday things, such as traffic patterns, grocery shopping, finding a place to live, as well as obtaining transportation to get to and from work. Making new friends can be difficult, but in time, an immigrant can feel like a part of the team at his or her job, which can lead to social outings and meeting new people.

Contact an Illinois Immigration Lawyer

Relocating to another state can be challenging, let alone to a different country. The award-winning Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices have decades of experience helping immigrants with all of the issues they face when coming to the United States for the first time. Our dedicated and honest Illinois immigration attorneys will handle your or your loved one’s immigration case with personal care and attention to detail. Call us today at 630-932-9100 to schedule your free consultation.