US Citizen’s Guide to Immigration a Malaysian Spouse or Fiance

Franchesco Fickey Martinez • March 14, 2025

A US Citizen usually has to fully understand (1) how to get married abroad or domestically and (2) the immigration options/processes. This post builds a guide to the most common topics and questions, BUT be specific for a Malaysian Spouse or Fiance.


First, what are the two Immigrant Visa Options:


  • The CR-1/IR-1 Spousal (Immigrant) Visa, and
  • The K-1 Fiance (Immigrant) Visa


Second, how to get married in Malaysia? The US Embassy gives the following guidance: https://my.usembassy.gov/marriage/ However, a Virtual Marriage may also be a viable possibility: /immigration/virtual-utah-marriage-alternative-to-a-proxy-marriage-for-immigration-purposes/

What Documents are going to be required for each process (Fiance or Spousal)?

Our office has an Immigration Checklist that will help aid you in identifying the mandatory items USCIS and the NVC will need according to your specific case and stage: /immigration/immigration-checklist-what-our-law-office-generally-recommends/


However, there are three other important documents types that MUST get special attention:


(1) Proving the Relationship:

Click here to see further guidance on the I-129F Fiance Petition relationship proof: /immigration/k-1-fiance-visa/i-129f-fiance-visa-how-to-prove-your-relationship-to-uscis/


Click here to see further guidance on the I-130 Spousal Petition relationship proof: /immigration/adjustment-of-status/joint-bona-fide-documents-how-to-start-meeting-the-uscis-i-130-evidence-requirement-for-a-marriage/

(2) Proving the Financial Stability:

In a nutshell, the US Government needs to review the past 3 years of income, and confirm the past and current income is over the Federal Poverty Level Guideline (link to the guideline found here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-864p ). The Government will normally require:


  1. IRS Tax Return Transcripts for the past 3 years (Guidance found here: /immigration/how-to-request-your-irs-transcript-helpful-guide-to-acquire-this-commonly-requested-immigration-supporting-document/ )
  2. 1040 Tax Return Form for the past 3 years
  3. W-2 and/or 1099 for the most recent year
  4. 12 months of Paystubs or proofs of income


Since everyone’s income situation may be different, the following links do a much deeper dive into needed financial documents:



What Does the Embassy want to see:


(a) What are the Consular Interview Instructions for Kuala Lumpur?


The US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia provides the following instructions for consular interviews: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Supplements/Supplements_by_Post/KLL-Kuala-Lumpur.html


(b) How to Acquire a Malaysian Birth Certificate?


Issuing Authority:  National Registration Department by Peninsular, Sabah and Sarawak   

Procedure for Obtaining:  Complete form JPN.LM01 or by visiting: https://www.malaysia.gov.my/portal/content/30260

Alternate Documents:  Extract of birth certificate   or Certificate of Registration of Birth


(c) How to Acquire a Malaysian Police Certificate?


First, the Police Certificate is ONLY VALID FOR 1 YEAR. The certificate can be called: Malaysian Certificate of Good Conduct. Please see the following information:

Fee: RM20:00
Issuing Authority:  Consular Division Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Putrajaya/ Sarawak Regional Office Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kuching and Sabah Regional Office Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kota Kinabalu

Registration Criteria: Both Malaysians and non-Malaysians who have resided in Malaysia for a period of more than one year may apply for a Malaysian certificate of good conduct. The application form for the Malaysian Certificate of Good Conduct, as well as the addresses and telephone numbers of Malaysian Missions abroad, are available here: https://ekonsular.kln.gov.my/login

Processing Time: Processing time for the certificate is one to two months from the date of submission.


(d) I already submitted a filing and it is taking longer than expected. How can I verify that I am within normal processing time?


Here is the USCIS Tool to see up-to-date processing times in your specific jurisdiction and for a specific form: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/#mainContent


(e) Immigrant Medical Instructions:


Every Immigrant Visa, regardless is K1 or IR1 or CR1, MUST receive an immigrant medical.

The Medical can ONLY be completed AFTER INSTRUCTED by the Embassy, either instructed by an Email from the Embassy Officer or by the interview being Scheduled.


The Medical MUST be completed PRIOR to an immigrant visa interview, it is a mandatory requirement. If the medical cannot be performed in time, the Embassy would give more guidance about:

  • the “possible medical backlog” being ok and interview attendance can move forward or
  • if a reschedule of the visa interview would be required in order to allow the medical to occur and process.


Sample Email from the Embassy:

WE are trying our best to give you an appointment for your US Visa Medicals as required by US Embassy, KL.

These are the  compulsory documents we need before an appointment is given:

1. Confirmation page of DS 260 for Immigrant applicants /DS 160 for Non Immigrant applicants

2. Email letter from US Embassy, KL to inform you of a Medical Examination required /and if an Interview Date is already given

3. Original current passport

4. Contact number/ current address in Malaysia & address in USA


Once we confirm the above, an appointment will be given to you soonest possible.

We are aware that there are logistics involved for those residing away from KL but these Medicals occasionally require more than one day to do. Planning is important.

On the day of the appointment, you  need to bring

1. 4 passport size photos (white background)  ONLY  f or Non Immigrant applicants & Diversity (Immigrant) Visa applicants. 

  IF you are an Immigrant Visa applicant but  identified as a  NON  eMedical  (Electronic) Medical Exam to do;  you will be informed  of the

  same requirement.

2. Original passport

3.  CASH RM 1300 per person  (only as an estimation which includes most routine vaccinations unless verified as already completed)


YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THE MEDICAL EXAM.


With effect from 1st October, 2021  – ALL adult applicants are required to get their  COVID 19 vaccination by CDC  (FDA approved brand or WHO emergency list approved vaccines) before completion of the Medical examination . The adolescence group (ages 12- 17years) also would require their COVID 19 vaccination, ONLY COMIRNATY (Pfizer- BioTech) vaccine is recognized by CDC.

The Medical examination can take place whilst waiting to complete the COVID 19 vaccination.

All two (2) completed doses must be done before the medical report is released / submitted.

There are clinics /medical centers which offer PRIVATE Vaccinations but this usually ONLY limited to CoronaVac (Sinovac) which is a WHO approved vaccine & accepted for the completion of the US Visa Medicals for Adults only.

This clinic (US PANEL site) also  offers  the CoronaVac (Sinovac) vaccine. However, we will have to reserve the vaccine for the applicant a few days in advance before getting the vaccination. It is recommended  only  to those living in Klang Valley.

CR-1/IR-1 Spousal (Immigrant) Visa

The IR-1 / CR-1 Spousal Immigrant Visa is the visa that would allow a Malaysian spouse to immigrate to the United States.

The process involves 2 Main Stages.

  • In the first stage, the filing will be reviewed and approved by USCIS.
  • Once it is approved, the filing will enter stage 2 where it is transferred to the NVC and then subsequently to the Embassy in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.


For a more detailed overview of this type of filing and what it entails please refer to the steps below:

  1. Part 1  – Petition to Recognize the Relationship – Submit the I-130 Electronically with USCIS ( Related Blog Post found here )
  2. Part 2  – USCIS Processing – I-130 Pending awaiting a USCIS Officer to review the filing and supporting documents ( Processing times Post found here )
  3. Part 3 – NVC Processing – Visa fees are paid, DS-260 completed, and supporting documents uploaded. (NVC Processing Times can be found here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/nvc-timeframes.html )
  4. Part 4 – Consulate Interview – NVC provides the Kuala Lumpur Interview day and time, the Embassy/Consulate Account would be Registered, the Immigrant Medical Performed, Documents prepared, and Interview Attended.
  5. Part 5 – Green Card Printing Fee – Pay the Immigrant Fee before traveling to the US
  6. Part 6 – Arrive in the US – Fly to the United States, Apply/Receive US Social Security Card, and Receive Green Card in the mail within 3-4 months after entry.


Government Cost: $1305 (2025 Estimate)


Average Processing Time (2025 Estimate): 14-24 months (with the bulk of processing time spent in the I-130 Petition)


What is the Difference of a CR-1 or IR-1 Visa?

When the couple has been married for less than 2 years at time of interview, then a CR-1 Visa would be issued, conditioning the residence to a 2-year Green Card and requiring an I-751 thereafter. ( More information found here ) If the marriage is more than 2 years at time of interview, then an IR-1 Visa would be issued and a subsequent Green Card would be valid for 10 years.

K-1 Fiance (Immigrant) Visa

The Fiancee Visa has 3 Stages:

  • Stage 1:  I-129F Petition filed with USCIS
  • Stage 2:  File the DS-160 K-1 Fiance Visa application with the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this is what will allow the fiancee to enter the US
  • Stage 3:  Once in the US, file the I-485 Adjustment of Status with USCIS to receive a Lawful Permanent Resident Status


The intention of Stage 1 of the process is to recognize the relationship and confirm the eligibility of the petitioner. Stage 2 is intended to confirm that there will be is no marriage fraud and re-confirms eligibility. Stage 3 confirms the marriage occurred after entry on the K1 Visa and that the marriage is for love.


What are the Requirements to file for the I-129F Filing?

  1. The Petitioner must be a US citizen
  2. The Relationship is bona fide
  3. The US Citizen and Malaysian have physically seen each other within the past 2 years
  4. The US Citizen and Malaysian intend to marry with the K-1 Visa within 90 days after entry
  5. The US Citizen and Malaysian are legally “free to marry,” meaning there is no pending divorce.
  6. The US Citizen has a stable income to support the Malaysian fiance, and that income overcomes Federal Poverty Level Guidelines as stated in the USCIS I-864P


How to prepare a Letter of Intent for this process:

Below is a template our office has created to assist: Fiance Letter of Intent Template


How long does the I-129F take to process?

The processing times for the I-129F petition can be found here, just select the service center the filing is located at (which that info is generally found on the filing’s Receipt Notice):  https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/immigration/how-do-i-check-uscis-processing-times


How long does the I-485 take to process?

The above link can assist in finding the current processing time, the difference is that you would select the local USCIS Field Office, versus a USCIS Service Center. The I-485 filing (based on marriage) generally requires an interview at a local field office.

If you require assistance with the Spousal or Fiance Visa process, please consider  contacting our office to set up a consultation with our Immigration Attorney.




 

 
Disclaimer:  This Blog is made available by the lawyer or law firm publisher for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog/Web Site publisher. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.

I-864 Sponsorship: How is SSI and SSDI Assessed?

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 29, 2025
The I-864 is a Sponsorship Form from USCIS that is used in nearly all Family-based Immigration. This Blog Post will address how SSI and SSDI is assessed in this process. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) provides financial assistance to older adults and persons with disabilities (regardless of age) with very limited income and resources. SSI is […] The post I-864 Sponsorship: How is SSI and SSDI Assessed? appeared first on Fickey Martinez Law Firm.

I-864 Asset Calculations

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 28, 2025
The I-864 Form (Affidavit of Support) allows the US Government to assess someone’s financial capability to support a sponsored person, whether they are a spouse, parent, child, sibling, and even friend. The I-864 primarily assesses two areas of someone’s financials: Annual Income, derived from Paystubs / Pay Checks Adjusted Gross Income taken from the most […] The post I-864 Asset Calculations appeared first on Fickey Martinez Law Firm.

Immigration Attorney's Opinion on Popular Immigration Case Tracking Apps

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 27, 2025
This article will cover our office's opinions on the numerous Mobile Immigration Case Tracking Apps, as well as the inaccuracies that arise: Lawfully USCISCaseTracker US Immigration Case Tracker MigraConnect For starters, it is commendable to stay "current" on any immigration filing. Everyone should know what the current status of an immigration filing is. However, the source of information is important. The Federal Government is not "up-to-date" on the Mobile App scene, but most immigration agencies do offer "online case statuses" as well as "processing time estimators." For USCIS, the MYCASE Online Account ( https://myaccount.uscis.gov/sign-in ) should be the primary source of case information. For NVC, the CEAC Online Account ( https://ceac.state.gov/IV/Login.aspx ) should be the primary source of document-uploading, correspondence. For Consular Processing, the specific Embassy or Consulate should be utilized: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/ https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ The third-party mobiles apps are great at providing the "current online status," that information is readily available online at the following agencies: USCIS: https://egov.uscis.gov/ NVC Pre-Documentarily Qualified Status: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/nvc-timeframes.html NVC Post-Documentarily Qualified Status: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/iv-wait-times.html Embassy/Consulate: https://ceac.state.gov/ceacstattracker/status.aspx Where the mobile apps start to have inaccuracies and mis-information is with regard to the following: Estimated case processing time tends to be 100% inaccurate 3rd-party apps fail to show official USCIS or NVC correspondence, which could delay a filing or lead to a denial Confuse an immigrant beneficiary as to the current phase of the immigration process. When is a Mobile App a good thing? It is a helpful tool for an immigrant that is abroad. It allows the immigrant to receive updates. However, most use the app during the USCIS processing of the I-130, and it is more beneficial to just sign up for a USCIS account and elect for Email updates: https://egov.uscis.gov/ (Only the USCIS Receipt Number is required and anyone or multiple people can sign up for such notification services). Why is the Mobile App inaccurate with the USCIS processing time estimate? The App is inaccurate as the estimator requires the category type and location of processing. If you place the incorrect information, the mobile app would be off. Additionally, USCIS provides a "rough estimate" that occurs for 80% of the cases. USCIS may move quicker or slower depending on the specific case history, USCIS Officer assignment, and the Country of Origin. So, if a mobile app ways an estimated processing time is: 5 months, that should be taken with a grain of salt. USCIS is generally slow with Consular Processing, and a little quicker with Adjustment of Status. Disclaimer: This Blog is made available by the lawyer or law firm publisher for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog/Web Site publisher. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.

Need a Temporary Green Card? Information on the ADIT Stamp

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 22, 2025
The ADIT Stamp is a temporary proof of the I-551 Green Card that is an acceptable form of a lawful permanent resident card that can be used for: Domestic and international travel DMV SSA Employment purposes Need of a government-issued ID The ADIT Stamp can be placed in 1 of 3 locations: As a sticker on the back side of a fairly current/recently-expired I-551 Green Card As a Stamp in an unexpired foreign passport AS a Stamp on an I-94 card The ADIT Stamp may be a byproduct of the following Immigration forms: I-90 for a Green Card renewal or replacement after loss/theft I-751 for Removal of Conditions N-400 for Naturalization The document can be a "stamp" and a close look of the stamp is as follows:

Old Green Cards and issues with the DMV and Social Security

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 14, 2025
This article will cover the Old Versions of the Green Cards and how they encounter issues with the DMV when attempting to renew a Driver's License as well as with SSA when attempting to acquire Medicaid, SSD, or SSI. The I-151 Green Card: The former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) issued Form I-151 (Alien Registration Receipt Card), commonly called a “green card,” to aliens from: July 1946 to 1978. The I-151 Green Card never had an expiration date printed on the card, which has led many to believe their documentation was up-to-date. Even in 2025, I-151 Green Card holders never knew their Green Card had actually expired by law on March 20, 1996 . I-151 card holders experience issues with the DMV, especially after the Real ID Requirements of May 2025, due to the INS records not being easily accessible in current government system, as the INS agency ended in 2003 and was replaced by the agency: USCIS. Additionally, due to I-151 Card Holder's ages, they have either been receiving SSI and Medicaid for many years, or will be starting very soon. For example, if an I-151 Green Card holder received their I-151 Card in 1970 at the age of 10, they would be turning 65 in 2025. According to SSA: Form I-151 is not a valid immigration document. The card lacks security features and presents more opportunities for alteration and fraud than the immigration documents currently being issued. From 1992 through 1996, the former Immigration and Naturalization Service conducted a “Green Card Replacement” project to replace the I-151 cards in circulation. Although the card is not a valid immigration document, the person may still retain lawful permanent status. (Source: https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0200303400) I-151 Card Holders are recommended, depending on their given situation, to either apply for an I-90 Green Card renewal or apply for US Citizenship with the N-400. The I-551 Green Card that didn't expire: The I-551 Green Card is the "current version" of the Lawful Permanent Resident Card. However, there is a lot of confusion on whether the cards with “no expiration date” are still valid. Some government agencies may refer to this un-expiring I-551 as the: ORIGINAL I-551 Whereas, the expiring I-551 may be reviewed to as the: REVISED I-551 The I-551 Green Cards issued between: 1977 and August 1989 have no expiration date, but ARE STILL a valid and acceptable Green Card. However, not every US Agency will acknowledge the old version of the I-551 Green Card since it lacks an expiration date, and a way for the agency to confirm current legal immigration status from when the card was issued in 1977 to 1989. For the DMV, the unexpiring I-551 Green Card may or may not be accepted. A lot has to deal with name changes over the years and whether the file is accessible in current government systems. For SSA, the old or original I-551 is generally accepted as identity is normally compared against a lifelong history of SSA Contributions in Prior Payroll and tax filings. Original I-551 Card Holders are recommended, depending on their given situation, to either apply for an I-90 Green Card renewal or apply for US Citizenship with the N-400 as to avoid issues that may arise in the next few decades (unknown how laws might change). What do I do if I need a new I-551 Green Card ASAP? By filing for either I-90 or N-400, USCIS may issue a "temporary I-551 proof" that can be in the form of the passport, a sticker on the card, or a stamp in an I-94 Card. This temporary proof is called an ADIT Stamp and can be acquired at a local USCIS Office in an INFOPASS Appointment. (More information can be seen here: https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/need-a-temporary-green-card-information-on-the-adit-stamp) The following is the SSA policy on ADIT Stamps: When the alien does not have a machine readable immigrant visa (see RM 10211.025C.2 ), DHS places a temporary I-551 stamp in the foreign passport as evidence of immigration status when the alien is admitted to the U.S. as an LAPR for the alien to use until the permanent I-551, Permanent Resident Card, is received. The stamp may be placed in the alien’s foreign passport or on a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure record, when the alien does not have a passport. When an alien previously admitted to the U.S. applies for a replacement I-551 or adjusts to LAPR status, DHS places a temporary I-551 stamp in the foreign passport. When the alien does not have a foreign passport, DHS places the temporary I-551 stamp, a photo of the alien, and DHS seal on Form I-94. Each stamp is uniquely numbered with a five-digit identifier which can be found below the “Valid Until” line. Also, the officer writes the “A” number on the stamp. See the ACM Alert No. 2006A-31 New DHS/USCIS ADIT Stamp under the “I-94” document number and “I-551” document number for more information on the design and fluorescent security features. (Source: https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0200303440#b1)

319(e) Naturalization: Overseas Naturalization Option for Active-duty Military Spouses and Children

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 14, 2025
The Blog Post will hopefully provide better guidance out there that may be nearly a decade old. The 319e Naturalization Option is available for: Green Card Holding Spouses; Whose spouse is an “Active Duty” Member of the U.S. Armed Forces (Not a Veteran or Independent Contractor); Who Currently Live Abroad on official Military Orders; and […] The post 319(e) Naturalization: Overseas Naturalization Option for Active-duty Military Spouses and Children appeared first on Fickey Martinez Law Firm.

INA 319(b) Naturalization Option: Spouses of U.S. Citizens Employed or Stationed Abroad

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 14, 2025
[Ler Post em Português] Under INA 319(b), Spouses of U.S. Citizens who are Employed or Stationed Abroad can be provided a new option for Naturalization. Normally, Spouses must hold their Green Card for a minimum of three years before being eligible to Naturalize through Marriage. Under INA 319(b), Spouses otherwise eligible for the 3-year Naturalization, […] The post INA 319(b) Naturalization Option: Spouses of U.S. Citizens Employed or Stationed Abroad appeared first on Fickey Martinez Law Firm.

US Citizen's Guide to Immigrating an Italian Spouse or Fiance

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 14, 2025
This guide is for the US Citizen that is trying to fully understand the US immigration consular process. You may have met an Italian online (possibly through EuroCupid/InternationalCupid) or after being stationed with the US Military abroad at: Aviano AFB Camp Darby Army Base Caserma Ederle Army Base Sigonella Navy Base Gaeta Navy Base La Maddalena Navy Base Naples Navy Base If you have an Italian Spouse or Fiance, this Guide will cover the most common topics and questions. First, what are the two Immigrant Visa Options: The CR-1/IR-1 Spousal (Immigrant) Visa, and The K-1 Fiance (Immigrant) Visa Second, how to get married in Italy? The US Embassy gives the following guidance for marrying in Italy: https://it.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/marriage/ However, a Virtual Marriage in Utah may also be a viable possibility. Meaning, the US Citizen and the Italian Citizen can be in different countries OR both can be in Italy, and the marriage ceremony can be held virtually in the state of Utah. More information can be seen here: https://www.utahcounty.gov/dept/clerk/marriage/marriagelicense.html Here are some common topics before we dive in to the process:

Does your Philippine Spouse qualify to join the US Workforce?

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 13, 2025
Many will talk about bring a Philippine Spouse to the US in many different ways: As a K1 Fiance As a CR1 Spouse As an IR1 Spouse As a K3 Spouse As an Immigrant Visa Holder The inherent issue with the Immigrant Visa process, is the processing time. However, what if there was a way to bring your spouse to the US quicker? What if they could be in the US in a matter of weeks or months? Shouldn't every option be considered? This Article will cover the alternative employment options that a Filipina/Filipino Fiance or Spouse could consider to "arriving" to the US quicker. The rule of Employment Visas, when you have a Fiance or Spouse in the US: Two requirements must be stressed: First, employment visas require employment to occur. You cannot come on an employment visa tomorrow, marry the day after, and then pursue a Green Card. That could be classed as visa fraud or circumventing immigration law. If you apply for the employment visa, you must work. Second, the employment should really be job history/education level appropriate. The employment can be used "in conjunction" with an immigrant visa process abroad in Manila. Additionally, there are very slim exceptions that may allow a Foreign Spouse to immigrate within the US through Adjustment of Status, versus Consular Processing. Possible Employment Visa Options based on some industry norms: Teaching/Education: J1 Cultural Exchange Teacher: A popular visa for teachers, where the interview process is facilitated through a J1 Sponsor, and a visa is acquired relatively quickly at the US Embassy in Manila. A list of J1 Sponsors can be seen here: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/ The biggest consequence for the J1 Visa is the 2-year home residency requirement that restricts other employment visas such as H-1B until EITHER you've returned home to the Philippines for 2 years or you've acquired a J1 Waiver. R1 Religious/Private School Teacher: Requires a religious private school, such as a catholic school, to sponsor. More information on a Catholic School (Philippines is predominately Catholic) teaching position can be seen here: https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/deeper-dive-r-1-catholic-teacher-positions-how-to-locate-possible-religious-education-employment F1 Student utilizing OPT for Teaching Experience: A student visa holder may be able to acquire the ability to work (aka Employment authorization Card or Optional Practical Training) for 1 to 3 years (depending on whether education was STEM or Non-STEM). This teaching experience is very beneficial for acquiring a H-1B teaching position after the OPT Period. H-1B for Teachers: The most versatile teaching visa option, as many schools tend to have a relationship with a University or College to qualify for Cap-Exempt H-1B Status. More information on how to start can be seen here: https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/philippine-teacher-how-to-find-an-h-1b-position-in-the-united-states Healthcare/Medical Fields: H-1B for Medical Professionals and Nurses: Ideally, you should look for Hospitals/Clinics that have sponsored in the past. If they've done it in the past, they may be willing to sponsor again in the future. An unofficial (non-government website) list can be seen here: https://h1bgrader.com/job-titles/nurse-n60ezl4m0z/lca/2025 (You can limit the list by Specific Medical Position, by Year, and also by State) J-1 for Medical Professionals and Nurses: J-1 positions are also available, but the biggest consequence for the J1 Visa is the 2-year home residency requirement that restricts other employment visas such as H-1B until EITHER you've returned home to the Philippines for 2 years or you've acquired a J1 Waiver. Uneducated H-2B Professions: The Department of labor provides the following search bar to assist in locating possible H2b employment: https://seasonaljobs.dol.gov/jobs The common jobs (not an exhaustive list) are: Food Service & Hospitality: Line Cooks Servers Bartenders Housekeepers Front Desk Staff Dishwashers Construction & Labor: Construction Laborer Roofer Asphalt Worker Concrete Laborer Landscaper and Groundskeeper Amusement and Recreation Attendants Amusement Park Worker (very seasonal) Theme Park Worker (very seasonal) Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers: Chicken Processing Plant Worker Turkey Processing Plant Worker Pork Processing Plant Worker Crab Cannery Worker If someone has experience in the past with poultry, a chicken processing plant may be ideal. If they've worked in a factory, a cannery may be ideal. If the spouse has construction experience, construction may be ideal. The fact of the matter, there a numerous industries that are in need of employees. If a Foreign Fiance or Spouse can fill that employment position, why not consider the possibility. Disclaimer: This Blog is made available by the lawyer or law firm publisher for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog/Web Site publisher. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.

Philippine Teacher: How to Find an H-1B Position in the United States

By Franchesco Fickey Martinez • May 12, 2025
This article will cover the topic of "How to find an H-1B Position?" The Teacher could be in the Philippines at this time, or could be in the US under an alternative teaching visa: J-1 Cultural Exchange Teacher R-1 Religious/Private School Teacher F-1 Student utilizing OPT for Teaching Experience First, lets cover the three visa categories that can bring a teacher to the US: J1 Cultural Exchange Teacher: A popular visa for teachers, where the interview process is facilitated through a J1 Sponsor, and a visa is acquired relatively quickly at the US Embassy in Manila. A list of J1 Sponsors can be seen here: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/ The biggest consequence for the J1 Visa is the 2-year home residency requirement that restricts other employment visas such as H-1B until EITHER you've returned home to the Philippines for 2 years or you've acquired a J1 Waiver. R1 Religious/Private School Teacher: Requires a religious private school, such as a catholic school, to sponsor. More information on a Catholic School (Philippines is predominately Catholic) teaching position can be seen here: https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/deeper-dive-r-1-catholic-teacher-positions-how-to-locate-possible-religious-education-employment F1 Student utilizing OPT for Teaching Experience: A student visa holder may be able to acquire the ability to work (aka Employment authorization Card or Optional Practical Training) for 1 to 3 years (depending on whether education was STEM or Non-STEM). This teaching experience is very beneficial for acquiring a H-1B teaching position after the OPT Period. Second, What are some tasks every Philippine Teacher should Consider? Credential Education: Our clients have had positive experiences working with World Education Services , International Education Evaluations , and Education Credential Evaluators . However, the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) provides a list of qualifying companies: https://www.naces.org/members . A helpful note, USCIS requires applicants to provide evidence of all degrees, certifications, or licenses received, including specifically: (1) Transcripts, (2) Diplomas, (3) Degrees, and (4) Certificates. Study for the TOEFL: Study for the Test of English as a Foreign Language. Recommend reviewing a free study guide or practice tests. Study for the PRAXIS: The Praxis exam tests the knowledge and skills needed to teach in a specific subject area and grade level. The testing requirements may vary on the state you plan to teach in as well as the grade level or subject area you are seeking to teach. Lastly, how can a Philippine Teacher locate an H-1B Position? Ideally, you should look for Schools that have sponsored in the past. If they've done it in the past, they may be willing to sponsor again in the future. An unofficial (non-government website) list can be seen here: https://h1bgrader.com/job-titles/teacher-g101183607/lca/2025 (You can limit the list by Specific Teaching Position, by Year, and also by State) This should be the starting point of Philippine Teachers planning to acquire an H-1B Teaching Position in the United States.
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