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If I live in India, how can I get work as a computer scientist in the US ?

If I live in India, how can I get work as a computer scientist in the US?


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Dr’s Answer

Hey Hugh, If you live in India and want to work as a computer scientist in the US, you have several pathways to achieve this goal.
I am just going to provide you a thorough and hope it helps clear things out.

1. As Rosa mentioned, securing a remote job with a US-based company is a great way to start. Many tech companies offer remote roles, especially in cloud computing (AWS, Azure), AI, cybersecurity, and software development. Gaining experience with a US company could improve your chances of securing a work visa later.

2. Direct Application for Jobs with Visa Sponsorship! Alright so, As Cliff pointed out, the H-1B visa is the most common route for tech professionals. However, competition is high, and companies prefer highly skilled candidates. You can:

Apply to companies known for sponsoring visas (e.g., Google, Microsoft, Amazon).

Check H1B databases to see which companies have previously sponsored visas.

I would say to Consider L1 visa options if you work for an MNC with US offices.

3. Enhance Your Skills to Stand Out!
Since visa sponsorship is expensive, companies look for top talent. Strengthen your profile by:
Gaining expertise in in-demand areas (AI, ML, full-stack development, cybersecurity).

Building a strong portfolio on GitHub, Kaggle, or personal websites.

Getting certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google Cloud Professional, or CISSP for cybersecurity.

4. Higher Education Route (MS or PhD in the US)..... Many computer scientists move to the US by pursuing a master’s or PhD. A US degree increases job prospects and makes it easier to secure an H-1B visa. Some students also transition from F-1 (student) to H-1B through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program.

5. Cliff also briefly mentioned headhunters, and while they may not be common in India, networking is crucial:

Attend global tech conferences (remote or in-person).

Engage with recruiters on LinkedIn.

Join online communities like Stack Overflow, GitHub, or US-based tech forums.

Hugh, It's a competitive process, but with persistence and the right strategy, it’s achievable. Don't give up an keep going forth, you got this man! 🙌

Dr recommends the following next steps:

Strengthen your skills and build a strong portfolio.
Apply for remote jobs or jobs that offer visa sponsorship
Explore master's or PhD programs if you're open to studying.
Network with professionals in the US tech industry.
Final Suggestion: Consider freelancing on global platforms like Upwork, Toptal, or Fiverr to gain international experience and build a reputation with US clients. Many companies prefer hiring from their existing freelance talent pool for full-time roles, making this a great way to get noticed while earning and improving your skills.
Thank you comment icon Syuk Chang, always an honor to have a mentor’s nod of approval! Wisdom recognized is wisdom shared. Dr H
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Rosa’s Answer

Try getting remote job. Jobs involving coud eg AWS, Azure and many others can be done remotely. Your area of specialization has wide opportunities. Afterwards you might even get a work visa to US.
You can directly apply for jobs that offer work visas.
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Cliff’s Answer

Hugh,

That's a very good goal. I agree with the comments above - a remote job is the easiest way to get a job in the US as a computer programmer. As started above, there are a number of companies in with a presence in India who are based in the US.
The way I would go about this is to learn a lot and become an expert in a certain programming skill/area, do your very best job at your current role, and then get a remote job working for a US-based computer programming company.
If you want to physically move to the US, you will likely need an H1-B visa. These cost a lot of money, so your skill level must be top notch to get recognized as someone who would be worth that to a US company. I have done it and it's a daunting process - it took 7 years to get approved in the case I worked and cost way more than $50,000 US. It's difficult but not impossible to achieve.
The job market in the US has had some ups and downs, so persistence is going to be key for you to achieve that goal.
I don't know what headhunters are like for this in India, but that might be an option. I have no idea of the costs for this, though.
I wish you the best of luck!
Take care.
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