Are you a qualified accountant seeking to build your career in the United States? You’re not alone. The U.S. is one of the most lucrative destinations for international professionals, especially accountants. With a thriving economy, competitive salaries, and a wide range of industries, the U.S. offers countless job opportunities. The best part? Many companies are open to visa sponsorship for the right talent.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about accounting jobs in the USA for foreign professionals, including visa options, salary expectations, top hiring companies, and how to land a job with sponsorship.
Why the U.S. is a Prime Destination for Accountants
The United States is home to some of the world’s largest companies, multinational corporations, and financial institutions. With strict regulatory standards and a growing demand for financial transparency, accountants are in constant demand.
Here’s why foreign accountants are eyeing the U.S.:
- High Demand: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for accountants and auditors is expected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033.
- Attractive Salaries: The average salary for certified accountants in the U.S. ranges from 65,000to65,000 to 120,000+ annually, depending on experience and location.
- Career Growth: Opportunities to move into roles such as Financial Analyst, Controller, or even CFO.
Can Foreign Accountants Work in the U.S.?
Yes! But you must meet specific qualifications and obtain the right visa. Many companies are willing to sponsor foreign talent if they possess the right skills, certifications, and experience.
Visa Options for Foreign Accountants
To work legally in the U.S., foreign accountants typically require one of the following visa types:
1. H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations)
- Most common work visa for skilled professionals.
- Requires a U.S. employer to sponsor you.
- You must have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
- Limited to 65,000 visas per year, with an additional 20,000 for master’s degree holders.
2. TN Visa (For Canadians & Mexicans)
- Available under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) agreement.
- Allows Canadian and Mexican accountants to work in the U.S. with a job offer.
- Must have appropriate education and job experience.
3. L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)
- Ideal for accountants working for multinational companies with U.S. branches.
- You must have worked for the company abroad for at least 1 year in the last 3 years.
4. O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)
- For accountants with exceptional skills and recognition in their field.
- Requires evidence of awards, publications, or a high salary in your country.
Qualifications Required to Work as an Accountant in the U.S.
To enhance your chances of success, here’s what you’ll need:
1. Education
- A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business.
- Some roles may require a master’s degree or equivalent.
2. Certifications
While not always required, having U.S.-recognized certifications greatly improves employability:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – Highly respected and often a requirement for public accounting roles.
- CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – Valuable for management and corporate roles.
- CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) – Ideal for internal audit positions.
3. Experience
- Employers prefer candidates with 2–5 years of experience in accounting or auditing.
- Internship experience in American companies is a plus.
4. Language Skills
- Proficiency in English is essential.
- Strong communication skills are crucial for client-facing roles.
Best Cities for Accounting Jobs in the U.S.
Here are the top U.S. cities where foreign accountants can find excellent job opportunities:
| City | Average Salary | Industries |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $85,000+ | Finance, Banking, Consulting |
| San Francisco, CA | $95,000+ | Tech, Startups, Venture Capital |
| Chicago, IL | $80,000+ | Manufacturing, Corporate |
| Dallas, TX | $78,000+ | Oil & Gas, Real Estate |
| Boston, MA | $83,000+ | Education, Healthcare, Finance |
Top Companies That Sponsor Visas for Accountants
Here are some well-known U.S. companies that regularly provide visa sponsorship:
1. Deloitte
- One of the Big 4 accounting firms.
- Offers H-1B sponsorships and CPA training.
2. Ernst & Young (EY)
- Sponsors foreign nationals regularly.
- Multiple offices across the U.S.
3. KPMG
- Known for hiring international professionals.
- Offers relocation support and training.
4. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
- Global accounting giant.
- Recruits thousands of foreign accountants annually.
5. Amazon
- Hires accountants for internal auditing and financial roles.
- Offers work visa support and relocation packages.
How to Apply for Accounting Jobs in the U.S. (With Visa Sponsorship)
Here’s a step-by-step approach to applying effectively:
Update Your Resume
- Use a U.S.-style resume with clear bullet points.
- Emphasize your international experience and certifications.
Register on Job Portals
- Use platforms like:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- H1Bdata.info (to find companies that sponsor visas)
Focus on Sponsoring Employers
- Filter job searches using keywords like:
- “H-1B visa sponsorship”
- “International candidates welcome”
- “CPA with visa support”
Prepare for Interviews
- Familiarize yourself with U.S. GAAP and accounting standards.
- Practice behavioral questions and technical accounting scenarios.
Follow Up
- Send thank-you emails after interviews.
- Be proactive in communicating your interest.
Tips to Boost Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
- Get Your CPA Certification
- It’s the gold standard in U.S. accounting and boosts your reputation instantly.
- Network with U.S. Professionals
- Join LinkedIn groups for accountants.
- Attend virtual career fairs or webinars hosted by U.S. firms.
- Consider Remote Opportunities First
- Some companies hire remote accountants abroad before moving them to the U.S.
- Work with International Recruiting Agencies
- They specialize in placing foreign talent in U.S. jobs with visa sponsorship.
Salary Expectations for Foreign Accountants in the U.S.
| Role | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Staff Accountant | 60,000–60,000 – 75,000 |
| Senior Accountant | 80,000–80,000 – 95,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 70,000–70,000 – 90,000 |
| Internal Auditor | 75,000–75,000 – 100,000 |
| Controller/Finance Manager | 100,000–100,000 – 130,000+ |
Note: Salaries vary by state, experience, and company size.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Visa Cap Limit (H-1B) | Apply Early (March–April) |
| Lack of U.S. Experience | Highlight International Achievements |
| Credential Evaluation | Get your degree evaluated by NASBA or WES |
| Cultural Differences | Take online business etiquette courses |
FAQs
Q1. Do U.S. companies really sponsor foreign accountants?
Yes, especially large firms like Deloitte, EY, and PwC that have a history of hiring international professionals.
Q2. Is CPA mandatory for getting a job?
Not always, but it greatly increases your chances and may be required for higher roles.
Q3. How long does it take to get an H-1B visa?
Typically, 3–6 months depending on the processing time and lottery outcome.
Q4. Can I apply from outside the U.S.?
Absolutely. Many companies conduct virtual interviews and help with relocation
Final Thoughts
The U.S. job market is highly welcoming to skilled and certified foreign accountants. If you have the right qualifications, certifications like CPA or CMA, and a passion for numbers, you can definitely land a high-paying job in the U.S. with visa sponsorship.