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Myths and Realities of Hiring International Students in the U.S


Myths * Realities
  Hiring an international student is too much of a hassle and overly complicated.   Students are often prepared to do the majority of the work involved and pay a majority of the expenses.
  Obtaining a visa for an international student is expensive.   The total current cost is anywhere from $2,000 - $5,000, depending on area of the country. Many students are willing to pay a majority of the expenses.
  Since September 11, getting the visa is time-consuming and difficult.   For jobs requiring a degree, H-1B processing times can be expedited and may take a minimum of 30 days.
  Students on an H-1B visa can only work in the U.S. for one year.   Most students can work for up to six years on an H-1B visa.
  The company first has to offer the job to a U.S. candidate, before they can offer it to a foreign national student.   H-1B is a non-competitive visa classification. Employers do not need to test the U.S. labor market before filling petitions on behalf of the employees.
  Only a small number of students can be offered H-1B visas each year.   There is a quota of 65,000 H-1B visas available each year, plus an additional 20,000 for International students that graduate with an MBA or higher from a U.S. university. Check with the Department of Labor for the most up-to-date information.
  The company needs to have immigration experts to hire a foreign employee.   Outside counsel can be hired to assist with the process.
Law firms will prepare all the necessary documents and submit them to the U.S. immigration service on the company’s behalf. If necessary, many students are prepared to undertake some or all of the work themselves, including hiring and paying for the lawyer.
  What if I want to hire a student for an internship?   Most international students can get permission for U.S. internships prior to starting their internship.
  Employees with H-1B cannot travel outside the U.S.   They can travel during the valid period of the visa.

* Notre Dame MBA Career Development Employer Guide for Hiring International Students 2008-2009


For more information contact Co-op Program Manager Dave DiMaggio at 315-443-5018 or ddimaggi@syr.edu