Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in the USA for Foreign Workers (2024)

If you’re an international job seeker looking for high-paying opportunities in the USA, you’re in the right place. The U.S. job market offers lucrative salaries, especially in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering, where skilled foreign workers are in high demand.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 highest-paying jobs in the USA for foreign workers in 2024, including salary expectations, visa sponsorship opportunities, and how to land these roles.

Why Do U.S. Companies Hire Foreign Workers?

Many U.S. companies actively recruit international talent due to:
1. Skill shortages in tech, healthcare, and engineering.
2. Diversity & global expertise that foreign professionals bring.
3. Visa programs like H-1B, L-1, EB-3, and O-1 that facilitate hiring.

Now, let’s dive into the best-paying jobs for foreign workers in 2024.

1. Software Engineer / Developer

Average Salary: 120,000–120,000–200,000+
Visa Options: H-1B, L-1, O-1
Why It’s in Demand: The U.S. tech industry faces a talent shortage, making it easier for skilled foreign developers to secure jobs.
Top Companies Hiring: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta

2. Data Scientist

Average Salary: 110,000–110,000–180,000
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-2
Why It’s in Demand: Companies rely on big data, AI, and machine learning, increasing demand for data experts.
Top Companies Hiring: IBM, Apple, Netflix, Tesla

3. Medical Doctor (Physician/Surgeon)

Average Salary: 200,000–200,000–400,000+
Visa Options: J-1, H-1B (for specialists)
Why It’s in Demand: The U.S. has a doctor shortage, especially in rural areas.
Key Requirement: USMLE certification & residency in the U.S.

4. Petroleum Engineer

Average Salary: 130,000–130,000–250,000
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-3
Why It’s in Demand: The U.S. is a leader in oil & gas, needing skilled engineers.
Top Hiring States: Texas, Alaska, North Dakota

5. AI/Machine Learning Engineer

Average Salary: 140,000–140,000–220,000
Visa Options: H-1B, O-1 (for exceptional talent)
Why It’s in Demand: AI is transforming industries, creating high-paying roles.
Top Companies Hiring: OpenAI, NVIDIA, Tesla

6. Investment Banker

Average Salary: 150,000–150,000–300,000+
Visa Options: H-1B, L-1
Why It’s in Demand: Wall Street firms hire global talent for financial expertise.
Top Employers: Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley

7. Cybersecurity Specialist

Average Salary: 120,000–120,000–190,000
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-2
Why It’s in Demand: Rising cyber threats increase demand for security experts.
Top Companies Hiring: Palo Alto Networks, CrowdStrike, CIA/FBI (for cleared roles)

8. Pharmacist

Average Salary: 120,000–120,000–160,000
Visa Options: H-1B
Why It’s in Demand: U.S. pharmacies need licensed pharmacists.
Key Requirement: NAPLEX certification & state license.

9. Aerospace Engineer

Average Salary: 110,000–110,000–180,000
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-2
Why It’s in Demand: NASA, SpaceX, and Boeing hire international engineers.
Top Hiring Companies: Lockheed Martin, Blue Origin

10. Cloud Solutions Architect

Average Salary: 130,000–130,000–210,000
Visa Options: H-1B, L-1
Why It’s in Demand: Cloud computing is booming (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
Top Employers: Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Oracle

How to Land a High-Paying Job in the USA as a Foreign Worker

Check Visa Eligibility – Research H-1B, L-1, EB-2, or O-1 visa requirements.
Get Certified (If Needed) – Some jobs (like medicine) require U.S. licensing.
Network on LinkedIn – Connect with recruiters and professionals in your field.
Apply to Visa-Friendly Companies – Target firms known for sponsoring foreign workers.
Work with a Recruiter – Agencies like Randstad, Robert Half, and Hays help place international candidates.

Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in the USA for Foreign Workers (2024)