If you are clueless on the process of getting a US work visa, you’ve come for information in the right place!
Many people in Kigali harbor dreams of living and working in the United States. For most of them, however, the application process seems daunting. Coming up are a few pointers to get you on the right track.
1. Identify which work visa is best for you
- There are several work visas available for immigrants. Most people apply for the H1-B temporary work visa (non-agricultural), which is the best avenue for skilled workers to get jobs in the US. If you choose to apply for this visa, make sure you meet the basic qualifications for a skilled worker, which include a college degree and considerable work experience.
2. Look for a job
- Having a job offer is a mandatory qualification for the H1-B US work visa. You, therefore, have to secure employment, before you make your visa application. You also need to find out if your skills are relevant to the US labor market. Note that the job you apply for must relate to your degree and work experience in Rwanda.
3. Get your documents in order
- Your passport should be valid for several years. Also, your medical records must be up to date, just in case you are required to present them. You must also have all the relevant educational certificates, as well as testimonials from previous Rwanda employers.
4. Make the application
- Visa application is an online procedure. Follow the instructions to the letter, so that your application is not rejected because of mistakes. You must also upload a photo according to the required specifications. As soon as your application is received, you will receive a confirmation page that you need to bring to the interview.
5. Schedule the interview
- Visa interviews usually take place at the US embassy or consulate in Kigali . Arrange to have your interview done close to your permanent residence, as this adds credibility to your application. Schedule your interview several weeks before your planned departure date, just in case visa processing takes a while.
6. Prepare for the interview
- Before the actual interview, you must pay a visa application fee. Details on how and where to pay this fee are found on the embassy website. Also, gather the necessary documentation for presentation at the interview. Review the instructions on your application form to see what is required. Note that you may need supporting documentation to prove that after your US work visa expires, you intend to return home.
7. Attend the interview
- Get to the Rwanda interview venue early enough, so that you are not a bundle of nerves when you face the consular officer. Confidently articulate how your stay in the US will benefit its citizens and economy. Have a positive attitude, irrespective of whether the officer responds or not.
Once the process is over, you will need to pay a visa issuance fee. After that, just wait for your US work visa, book your flight and prepare to start your new life!