Employment contracts in the United States usually run for a fixed term of one to three years. Salaries are paid monthly and bonus structures are dependent on performance and employer discretion.
Tax in the United States is complex - in addition to payments to state, federal and local governments you’re required to contribute at municipality, township, district and county level. Taxes are also levied by school, utility and transit districts. Depending on your situation, tax can account for up to 35% of your income.
If you’re serious about working in America you need to obtain a green card or visa, granting both residency and employment rights. Competition is intense but there are a number of ways you can increase your chances of acceptance; first and foremost, be aware it’s not always possible to apply when you’re here, so make sure your application is underway before you leave native shores.
If you’re working abroad for the summer or a short period time you need either a J1 visa, or an H2A or H2B visa. H2A and H2B visas are for seasonal workers. As a skilled professional there are three main visas that you can apply for: the H1, E class or K class visas. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services website details all the rules relating to living and working in the USA.
