Architecture in the USA:
The Career Upgrade for Salary, Network, and Status.
There are two types of architecture careers. The local path, which is linear. And the international path, which grows exponentially. A year in the USA—New York, Chicago, Los Angeles—is more than an adventure. It is the leverage for salary, network, and mindset that stays with you forever.
Are You Eligible for the USA?
Find out in 2 minutes if you qualify for the J-1 program. Free of charge. Zero risk.
Why the USA? Your Unfair Competitive Advantage
The job market for architects in Europe is competitive and often conservatively paid. The USA offers the opposite: A culture of “Think Big,” significantly higher entry-level salaries, and projects at a scale rarely seen in Europe.
- Salary: US salaries are often 30–50% higher than European standards (even for interns).
- Prestige: Names like OMA, BIG, or Gensler on your CV open every door worldwide.
- Skills: Master AIA standards, Revit at enterprise level, and English negotiation skills.
The Problem: The “Sponsorship Catch-22”
If the USA is so attractive, why isn’t everyone going? Because of a massive bureaucratic hurdle.
When you apply to a US firm, the first question is usually: “Do you have a work permit?”
Studios hesitate to hire you because they fear visa stress (lawyers, costs, time).
But you can’t get a visa without a job offer.
Result: 90% of international applications end up in the bin.
The Solution: We Cut Through the Bureaucracy
VisaNerd turns the tables. We make you “risk-free” for US employers.
As a specialized agency for the J-1 Visa program, we provide your legal infrastructure. We issue the critical document: the DS-2019.
How it works:
- You tell the employer: “You don’t need to sponsor my visa. I’m bringing my own sponsor.”
- The employer only signs a training plan (DS-7002)—no legal fees for the studio.
- We handle the approval with the US Department of State.
The Joker: No Job Yet? We’ll Find One.
If you don’t have contacts in NYC or L.A. yet, we’ve expanded our infrastructure for you.
Through our Matching Service, we connect you with partner studios specifically looking for international talent and design quality.
Our “No Cure, No Pay” Promise
No upfront fees for matching. We believe in our network.
- ✓ Interview First, Pay Later: You only pay the matching fee if you receive a job offer.
- ✓ Internship (12 Months): €1,500 (Success-based).
- ✓ Trainee (18 Months): €2,000 (Success-based).
Deep Dive: What You Need to Know
Intern or Trainee?
Intern: Enrolled student or graduated less than 12 months ago.
Trainee: Degree + 1 year experience OR 5 years of relevant experience.
How long does it take?
Typically 6 to 8 weeks once all documents are submitted. For matching, allow an extra 1-3 months depending on your portfolio.
Ready for the Next Step?
Stop researching and start applying. Let’s verify your status.
Check My Eligibility & Potential