While the US federal government is more restrictive in regards to hiring people who are not American citizens or US nationals, Green Card holders can work in state and local governments for a range of positions.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E to certify their foreign status and claim any applicable tax treaty benefits. The US company may also need to file Form 1099-NEC if certain conditions are met, though this is more common for domestic contractors.
Many contracts now include clauses requiring team members to be U.S. citizens, but not always. If you're involved in work requiring a secret or top-secret clearance, it's a no-go for non-U.S. citizens. Even if you have multiple passports, you might be asked to give up the non-U.S. ones.
In general, you must be a U.S. citizen or national (residents of American Samoa and Swains Island) to work for the federal government, but there are some exceptions.
While specific industries, such as defense contracting, may impose citizenship requirements due to federal mandates, most roles are accessible to qualified Green Card holders.
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. non-citizen national, or a qualified alien.
First, your employer is required to get an approved Labor Certification from the United States Department of Labor (DOL). Second, your employer must file an immigrant petition on your behalf (Form I-140). Third, you are required to either adjust status (Form I-485) or apply for your immigrant visa (Form DS-260).
As an employer, you may require the services of a noncitizen to work at your company or business. If the individual is already a permanent resident (Green Card holder), you may hire that individual, but you must comply with the employment verification requirements.
The W-8BEN and W-8BEN-E forms are essential for foreign independent contractors and businesses. They help verify the contractor's country of tax residence, enabling them to claim deductions or exemptions from US taxes.
Payments made to corporations, except those made for medical or health care services and attorney fees, are not required to be reported on Form 1099 MISC. Non-Employee payments – Non-employee payments are reported in Box 7 of Form 1099 MISC.