Are you interested in immigrating to the United States and currently working and hold experience as an architect in your home country? The US is a great place to migrate to if you have architectural skills!
Job Description (SOC 17-1010)
Architects work in the construction industry designing and buildings new spaces in and around them. They also help restore and conserve old buildings and develop new ways of using existing buildings. They are involved in construction planning from the earliest stages right through to completion.
Average Salary: $76k per year USD
US Architect Requirements
To work in the US as an architect, you typically have to graduate with an architectural degree, take an architect internship, joining the Architectural Experience Program, and pass the Architect Registration exam.
Each state in the US has different requirements. If a foreign national is looking to move to the US and practice law they must pass the bar exam where they intend to practice. New York and California are often popular locations for foreign architects because they offer the most flexible requirements.
Step-by-Step Immigration to the US to Practice Law
- Hire an Immigration Lawyer – There are many documents and requirements for those looking to work and live in the US, even more, if you are looking to practice law. An immigration lawyer will help you organize these documents and requirements to find you the best path for US immigration
- Find out which state you want to reside – Depending on which state you want to move to will determine the requirements you must reach to practice law in the US
- Pass the bar exam – You will have to pass the bar exam for that state in which you intend to live in.
Visa Options for Architects Immigrating to the US
Thankfully architects typically have the work and educational experience that are required for foreign workers to immigrate to the US. There are several visas that you may qualify to move to the US.
Working Visas
The H-1B Visa is used for many industries to hire university-educated professionals like architects. Learn more about the H-1B Visas and how foreign architects can qualify to practice law in the US.
Treaty Visas
There are several treaty visas that allow nationals of certain countries to immigrate to the US.
Canadians and Mexican architects can apply for the TN visa.
Australians can apply for the E-3 visa which acts very similar to the H-1B Visa.
Singapore and Chile nationals can apply for the H-1B1 Visa.
More than 50 countries are eligible for the E-1 and E-2 Visa.
Transfer Visas
If a company wants to transfer an architect to the US from another country they may qualify for an L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa.
Training Visas
The J-1 exchange visitor trainee visa allows foreigners to come train in public administration and law for up to 18 months. Foreign students on F-1 student visas are entitled to a one-year work authorization period called “optional practical training” upon the conclusion of their studies.
Business Visitor Visas
An attorney can enter the US as a visitor under the B-1 Business Visitor. Under the B-1 Visa, it allows architects to: participate in meetings, consult with business clients/associates, assist clients in negotiating contracts, engage in independent research, assist investor clients to find investment opportunities, and attend trade shows.
Extraordinary Ability Visa
The O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa will allow individuals who demonstrate they have the extraordinary ability to enter the US. There are requirements to prove that you have shown extraordinary ability in your profession in which you should consult an immigration lawyer.
Permanent Residency
If you are looking to permanently move to the US there are several options depending on your unique case.
Are You Interested in Migrating to the United States as an Architect?
Immigrating to the US is not a completely straightforward process. The laws are somewhat complex, and for this reason, it helps to work with an immigration professional to help you.
If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.
Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-877-296-0874.
Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?
Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.
The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.
