Immigration to the US as an Architect

By Travis P October 9, 2020 (Updated July 29, 2021) 3 min. read
Architect

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

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”

kevin geoffrey Avatar

kevin geoffrey

Visa place helped me with my daughter’s sponsorship 3 years ago. Last week I contacted them for some clarification on a different matter. It was about an issue which technically was a problem of CIC’s software glitch and had nothing to do with Visa Place.
Yet Reena Sandu was assigned for my case. she helped me with enthusiasm and showed no hesitation despite me being an ex-client from 3 years ago.
I was very happy that even after 3 years of finishing business, Visa Place were respectful of their clients. Special thanks again to Reena for her enthusiasm and support.

Nessie Leigh Ilarde Avatar

Nessie Leigh Ilarde

Thank you very much for helping me get my new visa! I appreciate Ms. Felicita and her colleagues for guiding us through the process making sure that everything is precise. Highly recommend your firm. Thanks again 🙂

parker ellis Avatar

parker ellis

Mansi Sanghvi has been nothing for of remarkable for me. I have been dealing with a visa, immigration issues , and any time I have to call her, she has been there to answer any questions. Has answers to every question and is there to HELP YOU. Truly could not recommend her more.

Domenico Orsi Avatar

Domenico Orsi

Bansuri was great help on the phone today. They were able to swiftly set up an appointment and facilitate all of my needs and questions.