Determine the type of work that you want to pursue. Methods to obtain a work visa will vary based on your occupation (e.g., journalist, athlete, entry level position, au pair) and expected duration, such as if you want to work for less than six months or longer than two years. Professionals like doctors, lawyers, and dentists often cannot work in foreign countries, as their licenses and certification might not transfer readily.
Research country specific regulations, such as through foreign government websites. For example, the Chinese Embassy in the United States maintains a website, china-embassy.org, which contains basic information about available visas. For instance, the United States offers different ways for foreigners to work legally, such as through a H-1B visa that is sponsored by a U.S. employer. Another approach is through the EB-5 program, which allows foreigners to obtain legal status in the United States upon investing at least $500,000 and creating a minimum of 10 jobs.
Obtain a valid passport. If you are a U.S citizen, then you can apply for a passport book at a post office or U.S. Department of State passport agency. Applications are processed within about four to six weeks, though expedited services are available at extra charges. If you currently have a passport, then check for sufficient blank pages or add pages to your book.
Prepare and submit a complete application. You likely must include a copy of your valid passport plus separate passport style photos. Make sure that you or your prospective employer pays the correct filing fee. Most countries will check your background, such as to determine if you are a criminal. You might have to take a medical exam to demonstrate that you do not suffer from certain diseases. For example, it is difficult to obtain a Chinese work visa if you suffer from AIDS, contagious tuberculosis or venereal disease.
Book travel arrangements in a timely manner after you receive a visa approval. Determine if you need to find housing on your own or if your employer will take care of it. Arrive in the country before your visa expires or you will be denied entry.
