Expanding your workforce globally can find talent, innovation, and growth. But hiring international employees for U.S.-based companies requires a deep understanding of immigration laws, work visas, and cross-border payroll systems. This guide offers a step-by- step explanation of how to hire foreign workers legally and efficiently in the United States, while also exploring cost, alternatives, and common challenges.
Whether you’re a startup scaling fast or an enterprise expanding globally, this guide will help you navigate through legal requirements, visa sponsorship, and remote hiring strategies for foreign professionals. Let’s break down how you can access the global talent pool while staying compliant.
How to hire international workers?
Hiring international employees involves several legal and procedural steps. Here’s a breakdown to help employers make informed hiring decisions:
- Define the Employment Type
- Will the international worker be a U.S.-based employee, contractor, or remote worker?
- The answer determines the employment laws and tax obligations.
- Secure the Appropriate Work Visa
- Common visas include:
- H-1B: Specialty occupations
- L-1: Intracompany transfers
- O-1: Individuals with extraordinary ability
- TN: Canadian and Mexican professionals under USMCA
- Employers must file petitions with USCIS and sometimes the Department of Labor (DOL).
- Common visas include:
- Ensure Labor Market Compliance
- File a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the DOL for certain visa categories.
- Demonstrate the position cannot be filled by a qualified U.S. worker.
- Understand Tax and Payroll Implications
- For U.S.-based workers, standard IRS tax withholdings apply.
- For remote workers abroad, consult tax treaties and local labor laws.
- Use a global Employer of Record (EOR) like Velocity Global to streamline cross-border payroll.
7 alternatives for hiring foreign talent
If direct employment isn’t feasible, consider these alternatives:
- Freelance Platforms
- Websites like Upwork, Toptal, or Freelancer allow hiring international talent on a project basis.
- Global EOR Providers
- Companies like Velocity Global and Deel handle employment compliance and payroll.
- Remote Work Visa Programs
- Some countries now offer digital nomad visas. You can hire international talent legally while they work remotely.
- Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs)
- Partner with a PEO that handles HR, benefits, and taxes for foreign workers.
- Offshore Development Centers (ODCs)
- Set up an ODC in another country to source and manage international teams.
- Staff Augmentation Firms
- These firms provide vetted foreign talent on a temporary or contract basis.
- Internships and Global Mobility Programs
- Hire through educational exchange programs (e.g., J-1 visa), internships, or internal transfers.
How much is the cost of hiring a foreign worker?
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost Range |
| Visa Sponsorship (H-1B) Filing Fees | $1,710 to $6,460 |
| Attorney Fees | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| Prevailing Wage Determination (LCA) | Free (but requires effort) |
| Recruitment/Advertising Costs | $500 to $2,000 |
| Onboarding and Relocation | $3,000 to $10,000+ |
| Global Payroll/Employer of Record Fee | $300 to $700/month/employee |
| Total Average Annual Cost (Estimate) | $10,000 to $25,000+ |
How to Find USA Companies That Are Hiring Foreign Workers
Looking to work in the U.S.? Use the following tools:
- US Department of Labor Disclosure Data: Tracks companies hiring H-1B and other visa holders.
- MyVisaJobs.com: Lists top visa sponsors in each industry.
- LinkedIn Jobs Filter: Use filters for “visa sponsorship available”.
- Company Careers Pages: Look for phrases like “we sponsor visas” or “global talent encouraged.”
How much a USA company pay a foreign workers?
Salaries vary based on skill, location, and visa type. However:
- H-1B visa holders must be paid the prevailing wage or higher.
- Average H-1B salary: $85,000 – $120,000/year depending on profession.
- Remote foreign workers outside the U.S. may earn local market rates, unless hired via EOR with parity policies.
Can I hire a non-United States citizen as a worker?
Yes, but only if:
- The person has a valid work visa.
- Or the person works remotely from their home country.
- Or your company uses a legal third-party employer structure (EOR/PEO).
Does a foreign worker need a visa to work for a United States company?
Yes, if they are physically working in the U.S. For remote workers outside the U.S., no visa is needed.
Hire foreign workers with Velocity Global
Velocity Global helps U.S. companies legally hire, onboard, and pay foreign workers. Their services include:
- Employer of Record (EOR)
- Global payroll & tax compliance
- Remote onboarding & benefits
- Legal support across 185+ countries
3 options for hiring international workers from another country
- Direct Remote Contractor
- Simple but risky if not compliant with local laws.
- Employer of Record (EOR)
- Handles full legal employment overseas.
- Establish Foreign Entity
- Ideal for long-term, large teams. Costly and complex.
Guideline for Employers
- Always consult an immigration attorney before sponsorship.
- Plan for 3-6 months processing time for visas.
- Use global payroll platforms for compliant payments.
- Offer relocation assistance to top foreign talent.
Guideline for Individuals
- Research companies with visa sponsorship history.
- Prepare an international-format resume.
- Apply for STEM roles in demand (engineering, IT, healthcare).
- Practice interview skills with cultural awareness.
How to Pay Foreign Workers
You have options:
- Use Wise or Payoneer for freelancers.
- For employees abroad, use an EOR or international payroll service.
- Consider currency fluctuations and local tax withholding.
Interview and Candidate Selection
- Conduct video interviews via Zoom or Google Meet.
- Use global assessment platforms (Codility, TestGorilla).
- Be mindful of time zone differences.
- Always verify credentials and work eligibility.
FAQ
How Can I Apply for Work Visas?
- U.S. employers must initiate most visa processes.
- Common steps include:
- Job offer
- LCA filing (if applicable)
- USCIS petition submission
- Visa stamping at U.S. consulate (for overseas workers)
What is Qualification for Foreign Workers?
- Valid passport
- Job offer from U.S. company
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for H-1B)
- Specialized skills or experience
- Clean immigration history
How many international workers can a company hire?
There’s no set limit, but visa programs like H-1B have annual caps (e.g., 65,000 per year). Remote hires outside the U.S. are generally no limits if compliant with local laws.
Can I hire international workers without a work visa?
Yes, if they work remotely from their home country. If they’ll work inside the U.S., a valid work visa is legally required.