U.S. Work Authorization and Visa Sponsorship

Wake Forest University values international talent and provides sponsorship for various U.S. employment-based nonimmigrant visas, including H-1B, O-1, and J-1, in coordination with our Center for Immigration Services and Support. All official offers of employment are contingent upon the candidate obtaining and maintaining valid work authorization in the United States throughout their period of employment.

This page provides important information regarding the University’s current policies and funding constraints surrounding visa sponsorship at the departmental level.

Recently, many U.S. employers, including Wake Forest University, have been impacted by a significant increase in supplemental fees mandated by a recent Presidential proclamation, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” applicable to foreign nationals who are outside the U.S. or seeking admission to the U.S. in H-1B status for the first time.

As a result of these changes, the estimated total cost of sponsoring a new H-1B employee who is currently outside the U.S. is approximately $100,000 for the required government fees (excluding standard legal fees and departmental administrative costs). U.S. laws require that these fees be borne by the employer, and not the prospective employee. 

Depending on the position, a school or unit within the University may be unable to fund these specific supplemental H-1B fees outlined in the Presidential Proclamation due to financial constraints. Consequently, candidates who are outside the U.S. or seeking admission to the U.S. in H-1B status for the first time, if selected as a finalist for employment, may be unable to obtain the necessary work authorization required to begin employment at Wake Forest University. 

This information is meant to clarify the legal and financial constraints the University must navigate with respect to supplemental H-1B fees. Your attention to this important matter is appreciated as you consider employment at Wake Forest University.

If you have questions about the contents of this policy page, please contact Human Resources at askHR@wfu.edu.