Why move to Alaska?
Alaska offers many benefits for the migrant, among which deserves special mention:
- high quality of life;
- excellent social support;
- decent wages;
- excellent quality of services in various fields, including education, health care, and many others.
The labor market in Alaska is heterogeneous and has a clear focus on raw materials, which significantly distinguishes it from other regions of the country. The most profitable for employment are the oil-extracting industry, as well as the fishing industry.
The main number of jobs in the region is concentrated in these areas, and wages exceed the national average. Unemployment rates in Alaska are much lower than in neighboring states. It is due to the low popularity of Alaska among US citizens and, accordingly, the low population density.
Disadvantages of moving to Alaska
Immigration in this direction seems to be a profitable and promising option for most people. However, several negative features should be taken into account when planning to move here for permanent residence.
First of all, these are harsh climatic conditions. In some cities in the north, the temperature, in winter, can drop to very low values, which creates certain inconveniences for long-term stays.
Another negative point typical for migration in any direction is the environment that is unusual for the traveler. If you have basic knowledge of the English language, it is quite possible to make existence more or less comfortable. However, to become a true part of society, it is advisable to devote a lot of time to studying local customs and culture.
To obtain a permanent residence, it is extremely important to comply with certain requirements enshrined in migration legislation. As the immigration of citizens of other countries wishing to move to the United States is constantly increasing, even obtaining a tourist visa can end up being denied, not to mention obtaining resident status and citizenship.
These shortcomings are partially offset by the availability of a high level of security and good infrastructure, even in the most remote and remote corners of the state.
Salary in Alaska
The issue of wages in this region is considered decisive for many migrants. Since this area has a high standard of living, wages are much higher than those in most other countries.
Since the bulk of jobs are distributed between the oil and fishing industries, it makes sense to analyze the typical wage size. The average salary is about $ 10-12 per full hour, while large enterprises can pay much more.
Local labor legislation provides for several conditions that affect wages:
- If the norm is exceeded at 8 hours per day, the hourly wage increases by 50%;
- If the place of work remains unchanged for a long time, the pay increases due to the length of service;
- The working day can be 12 hours, due to the specifics of the industry.
Thus, one of the main advantages of attracting a huge number of migrants to Alaska is the excellent salary and the real prospects for its increase.
Types of visas
To be able to permanently live and work in the United States, you will need to apply for one of the visas provided by the migration policy of this state. In 2021, the following types of visas are distinguished:
- business;
- working;
- training;
- refugee.
Also, you can get permanent residence and further citizenship if you marry a current citizen of this country. Since a business visa will require significant financial investments, it is advisable to analyze the procedure for obtaining a work visa in more detail.
Registration of a work visa
To apply for any type of visa, you will need to visit the country’s consulate. The package of papers required to obtain the required permission:
- a passport valid for at least six months;
- an invitation from the employer, a certificate with information about the future place of employment, and remuneration;
- 3 photos 3×4;
- completed questionnaires, as well as documentation confirming the existence of property in the home country;
- biometric data.
It is important to take into account that even with full compliance with all the rules for submitting papers and applying for a visa, it may be refused. It is due to the huge number of illegal migrants who often try to stay in the country without a legal basis.