Working as a massage therapist in the USA. Help!

Question

I am hoping to move from the UK to the United States to be with my boyfriend (who's an American Citizen) in the new year. I am a qualified Beauty Therapist (In NVQ Levels 2&3) and have been working in this country for 4 years in my profession. I would like anyone to give me some advice about becoming a licenced massage therapist and the steps needed to take in order to work in the US in this job and the visa I should apply for? I intend to study for an sit the NCBTMB exam this year as I intend to eventually work in the state of New Jersey. Does anyone know if my job would be considered in a visa application as a 'skilled profession' and if so, would that also include other jobs in my industry (ie salon receptionist)? Hope someone can help me! Im really confused!

Answer 1

Massage therapist does not qualify for "skilled profession . . ."  Check out the U.S. Department of State website for additional info.

Answer 2

Right now "skilled labor" requires either a 4 year university degree or 12 years of specialized experience.  It looks like you don't meet either definition.

Even if you were qualified, it can take years to get an H1B visa for skilled labor. There is an annual quota and it has been filling up in just a single day.  The 2009 quota is full already and the 2010 applications won't be looked at until April 1, 2009.

Finally, there's always the problem of getting a labor certificate.  Even if you are qualified for a job the employer must be able to prove to the US Department of Labor that there is no American citizen or permanent resident alien who is qualified for the position and willing to take it.

Perhaps you and your boyfriend should discuss marriage.  As a spouse or fiancee you could have your visa in less than a year.

Sorry I'm not more positive about your chances.

Answer 3

Get married and it will solve lots of ur problems. good luck and welcome.

Answer 4

Yak Rider is correct I'm afraid, you won't qualify for any kind of working visa here. If you and your boyfriend are serious them marriage is your only option. Don't rush to marry him just for a visa though, make sure the two of you do want to be married. Long distance relationships are not easy but it is possible to do while you make your mind up.