Hiring foreign nationals is a big business development. Many responsibilities come with this action that not every employer is prepared for.
Recruiting citizens in the U.S. is more straightforward. You need only post adverts in newspapers or on job websites for some roles, and the applications will come pouring in. By comparison, bringing foreign nationals into the fold can be a more involved process.
What are the types of things you need to think about here? Keep reading for some tips on hiring foreign nationals for your business.
Secure Certification
Know that not every employer is qualified to recruit foreign nationals. Focus on the legal requirements you must meet first. Staffing agency software can help streamline the recruitment process by ensuring compliance with regulations and managing documentation efficiently. This software also aids in tracking candidate qualifications and matching them with the right job opportunities, particularly when navigating the complexities of international hiring.
Do not assume the foreign nationals need to do everything. Seek certification through the U.S. Department of Labor first. Complete all the documents and forms they present you with. Be as thorough as you can be when filling in your information. Practice patience during this process and treat it with utmost importance.
Ensure that you are only dealing with reputable resources when securing certification online. Double-check all the links that you are using. Contact any mentor figures in your life so you can set expectations on how easy or challenging securing certification may be.
Browse Visa Programs
Research the different available visa programs. Be mindful that some of them are tailored to specific business purposes.
Be aware that rules can change for visas depending on an applicant’s profession or nationality. Expect Presidents to review or alter immigration or foreign labor laws. Utilize quality guidance in anticipation of any unexpected developments.
Read the information that Farmer Law provide. Heed their guidance well. Learn about the TN visa program that is open to those from Canada or Mexico only. Know that there is no TN visa for self-employment and that individuals must be working with an employer for entry. Remember that only NAFTA professionals can hold these visas; professors, veterinarians, engineers, scientists, and more. Contact Farmer Law directly if you need help using the program.
Learn the visa program regulations carefully. Follow all the necessary procedures with precision. Do not attempt to cut corners. Find a visa program more suitable to your needs if required.
Prepare For COVID Disruption
Do not assume that the pandemic is over. Plan for big and small disruptions to your hiring of foreign nationals.
Think about the hole in the potential labor force at the end of last year. Anticipate restrictions and travel rules changing. Look for precursor signs such as mounting political pressures. Do your best to get ahead of these incidents where possible. Adapt your business and recruitment plans accordingly.
Respect the feelings of any foreign nationals you do hire. Put yourself in their shoes. Know that they may be concerned about loved ones elsewhere during this pivotal time. Remind yourself that some countries are still grappling with high transmission and death rates. Follow isolation and safety procedures where appropriate.
Avoid getting excited when things are going well. Keep yourself grounded and set reasonable expectations as new coronavirus variants immerge. Remain headstrong throughout and look for the right window to hire foreign nationals. Mitigate as much risk as possible.
