How to Get Visa Sponsorship to Work in the US or Canada

To secure a visa sponsorship to work in the U.S. or Canada as a Kenyan, follow these steps:

1. Identify Sponsoring Employers

• Job Search Platforms: Use sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to find job postings with sponsorship opportunities. Filter search results by ""visa sponsorship"" to narrow your options.

• Industry-Specific Jobs: Fields like healthcare, tech, engineering, and construction have more demand and are more likely to offer sponsorship.

2. Consider a Work Visa

• U.S. Work Visa Options: The H-1B visa is popular for skilled professionals, but other visas like the H-2B (for seasonal non-agricultural workers) or J-1 (for exchange visitor programs) are also options.

• Canadian Work Visa Programs: The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and Express Entry Program are common paths to work in Canada. If eligible, you could apply through the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry.

3. Engage Recruitment Agencies

• Look for agencies specializing in your industry that can help you connect with employers willing to sponsor visas. Examples for Canada include Canada Job Bank and Global Hire; for the U.S., agencies like Robert Half have global connections.

4. Target In-Demand Occupations

• Both Canada and the U.S. have lists of occupations in high demand. For example, Canada’s Global Talent Stream program fast-tracks work visas in tech, engineering, and medical fields.

5. Leverage Networking and Online Resources

• Attend career fairs, especially those that cater to international hires. Join relevant professional networks and LinkedIn groups to connect with potential employers and people who have successfully navigated the process.

Once you secure an offer, your employer will initiate the visa sponsorship process. Be sure to have the necessary qualifications and documents ready, as both countries require proof of your education, work experience, and sometimes language proficiency.