Waiter Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Are you exploring waiter jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship? The hospitality industry offers abundant opportunities for skilled foreigners to join top restaurants, hotels, and cafes. 

With visa sponsorship, you can secure a stable income, gain international work experience, and build a rewarding career while enjoying the vibrant culinary culture of the United States.

Discover everything about securing waiter jobs in the USA, including eligibility criteria, top employers offering visa sponsorship, and a step-by-step application process with direct links to kickstart your career.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Waiter Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship

Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria to secure a waiter job in the USA with visa sponsorship:

These include:

• Relevant Experience: Most employers prefer candidates with at least 1-2 years of experience in the food and beverage or hospitality sector.
• Educational Qualifications: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, though some roles may accept candidates without formal education but with proven skills.
• English Language Proficiency: Strong verbal communication skills in English are essential for interacting with customers and team members.
• Customer Service Skills: A friendly demeanor, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are critical for delivering an excellent dining experience.
• Physical Stamina: The job often requires standing for long hours, lifting trays, and working in fast-paced environments.
• Work Authorization: Applicants must meet visa requirements, usually through programs like the H-2B visa, which employers facilitate for eligible foreign workers.
• Clean Background Check: A criminal record check is often required to ensure workplace safety and compliance.
• Certifications (Optional): Some employers may request food safety or alcohol-serving certifications, which can often be completed online or upon hiring.

How to Find and Apply for Waiter Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Securing a waiter job in the USA with visa sponsorship involves a detailed and organized approach. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process successfully:

Step 1: Research Job Opportunities

Start by researching job openings on online job portals such as Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and SimplyHired. Use search keywords like “waiter jobs with visa sponsorship in USA”, “hospitality jobs with visa sponsorship”, or “waiter sponsorship USA”. 

You can visit the career sections of prominent restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups that are known to hire international workers. Some examples include Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Ritz-Carlton, which often offer visa sponsorship for foreign employees. 

Additionally, recruitment agencies like GEOJOBS and Hays Recruiting may specialize in connecting international workers with visa-sponsoring employers.

Step 2: Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Ensure your resume is updated and customized to highlight your experience in the food and beverage industry. 

Focus on transferable skills such as excellent communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and customer service. If you have prior international experience or experience working in high-end restaurants or hotels, be sure to include this. 

Additionally, your cover letter should clearly express why you want to work in the USA and your eagerness to contribute to the hospitality industry. Mention any certifications or language skills (e.g., English proficiency) that could make you an attractive candidate.

Step 3: Verify Visa Sponsorship Availability

Before applying, confirm whether the employer offers visa sponsorship. You can usually find this information in the job posting or company’s FAQ section. If it’s not explicitly mentioned, reach out to the company’s human resources department to inquire. 

Be sure to verify that they are willing to sponsor a work visa such as the H-2B (temporary non-agricultural workers) or H-1B (for specialty occupations), as these are the most common visa types for foreign workers in hospitality roles.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve identified a suitable job and tailored your resume and cover letter, submit your application directly through the company’s website or the job portal. 

Double-check the application instructions and ensure you include all required documents, including your resume, cover letter, references, and any certifications (e.g., food safety certificates). 

Pay attention to deadlines, as some employers have specific timeframes for international applications.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

If you are shortlisted, you will likely be invited to an interview. This could be a phone, video, or in-person interview, depending on the company’s hiring process. 

Be prepared to answer common waiter interview questions, such as:

• How do you handle difficult customers or complaints?
• Can you work under pressure in a fast-paced environment?
• What steps do you take to ensure a positive customer experience?
• How do you manage upselling or increasing sales of menu items?

In addition, the interviewer may ask questions about your availability to relocate to the USA and your ability to adjust to a new culture. Show your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your willingness to adapt to new challenges.

Step 6: Secure Employer Sponsorship

If you successfully pass the interview stage, your employer will begin the visa sponsorship process. They will typically initiate the H-2B visa application, which allows temporary foreign workers to work in the USA. 

As part of this process, the employer must provide documentation, including proof that no qualified US workers are available for the position and that the employment of foreign workers will not negatively impact the wages or working conditions of US workers.

Be prepared to submit the necessary documents, including:

• A valid passport
• Proof of experience or qualifications
• Employment history
• References or letters of recommendation
• Any relevant certifications (e.g., food handling, customer service)

Step 7: Complete Visa Application

Once the employer files the petition for your visa, you will need to submit your visa application at the US embassy or consulate in your country. 

This will typically involve:

• Completing the visa application form (DS-160)
• Paying the visa application fee
• Attending a visa interview where you will provide biometric data and answer questions about your background and intent to work in the USA.

Prepare for the interview by gathering all the required documentation and ensuring that your visa application is complete. Visa processing times can vary, so apply well in advance.

Step 8: Relocate and Begin Work

After your visa is approved, plan your relocation to the USA. Work with your employer to arrange travel and housing, if necessary. Once you arrive, you will undergo an orientation process to familiarize yourself with your workplace, expectations, and the local area. 

Ensure you have the necessary documents, (visa and employment authorization) and any additional information required by US immigration services. 

Top Restuarants Offering Waiter Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship

Several renowned restaurants across the USA actively offer waiter jobs with visa sponsorship, providing exciting opportunities for foreign workers. 

Here are some of the top companies that sponsor work visas for waiters:

The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory is a well-known chain of upscale casual dining restaurants, with a presence across the USA. Known for its diverse menu, The Cheesecake Factory employs thousands in hospitality roles, including waitstaff. 

The company sponsors foreign workers for H-2B temporary worker visas. They prioritize candidates with excellent customer service skills and experience in the hospitality industry. 

Foreign workers applying for waiter positions must meet the general eligibility requirements for the H-2B visa, including proof of relevant work experience. 

How to Apply: You can find job openings on The Cheesecake Factory’s career page.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Hilton is one of the largest and most recognizable names in the hospitality industry. Known for its exceptional service, Hilton offers various opportunities in the food and beverage sector, including waiter roles across its hotel and resort properties. 

Hilton offers H-2B visa sponsorship for hospitality positions. They are committed to hiring skilled foreign workers to provide top-notch service at their properties across the USA. 

Applicants must have previous experience in the food and beverage industry and meet visa requirements. Hilton seeks individuals with strong customer service skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. 

How to Apply: To apply, visit Hilton’s careers page. Search for waiter or server positions, and check if visa sponsorship is available.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris Steak House is an upscale American restaurant chain specializing in high-quality steaks and exceptional service. The company has locations throughout the USA and is renowned for hiring staff with extensive service experience. 

Ruth’s Chris Steak House sponsors foreign workers on H-2B visas for waiter and other restaurant roles. They prefer candidates with prior fine dining experience and a passion for providing exceptional customer service. 

Applicants need to have at least one year of experience in the restaurant industry. H-2B visa sponsorship is available for those who meet the qualifications. 

How to Apply: Check out Ruth’s Chris Steak House Careers page on their official career page here. Apply directly for waiter positions with sponsorship options.

Darden Restaurants

Darden Restaurants is the parent company behind well-known brands such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and Yard House. These chains offer various food service positions across the USA, including waiter jobs. 

Darden Restaurants is known for hiring foreign workers through the H-2B visa program for seasonal and temporary positions. They offer competitive wages and training programs. Candidates should have prior experience in a food service role.

How to Apply: Visit Darden’s careers page to find waiter positions and check for visa sponsorship opportunities.

The Walt Disney Company (Disneyland & Disney World Resorts)

As part of the global Disney brand, the Disneyland and Disney World resorts offer numerous job opportunities in their dining services, including waitstaff positions at various themed restaurants. 

Disney sponsors foreign workers through the H-2B and J-1 visa programs, offering a unique opportunity to work at one of the world’s most famous resorts. They provide training programs and a fun, dynamic work environment. 

Applicants must meet specific visa requirements and have experience in hospitality, ideally in theme parks or large-scale resorts. 

How to Apply: Visit the Disney careers page. Look for positions at Disneyland or Disney World and check if the roles come with visa sponsorship.

The Average Salary for Waiter Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship

Here is a breakdown of the average salaries for waiter jobs in the USA, both hourly and annually, across different categories:

National Average Salary

• Hourly: $11.50 – $15.00/hour. Waiters typically earn a base hourly wage, which can vary depending on the state and type of establishment. 
• Annually: $24,000 – $31,000/year, The annual income of a waiter includes their base salary and tips. Entry-level waiters at casual restaurants or small businesses may earn on the lower end, while those at upscale establishments may earn at the higher end of the spectrum.

Average Salary by Experience Level

• Entry-Level Waiter (0-2 years of experience): $9.50 – $11.50/hour ($20,000 – $24,000/year). Newcomers with less than two years of experience can expect to earn near the lower end of the scale, primarily earning tips along with a base hourly wage.
• Mid-Level Waiter (3-5 years of experience): $11.50 – $14.00/hour ($24,000 – $29,000/year). Waiters with 3-5 years of experience can expect higher earnings, benefiting from a good understanding of customer service and the ability to secure larger tips.
• Experienced Waiter (5+ years of experience): $14.00 – $18.00/hour ($29,000 – $37,000/year). Experienced waiters, particularly those working in upscale restaurants, can earn the highest wages. Their extensive experience helps them provide excellent service and secure better tips.

Average Salary by Employment Type

• Full-time Waiter (40 hours per week): $12.00 – $16.00/hour ($26,000 – $33,000/year). Full-time positions are more stable with consistent hours, often leading to better earnings, especially with generous tips.
• Part-time Waiter (less than 30 hours per week): $10.00 – $13.00/hour ($18,000 – $25,000/year). Part-time waiters earn less due to fewer hours worked, but they still benefit from tips based on the quality of service.

Average Salary by Industry

• Fine Dining Restaurants: $14.00 – $20.00/hour ($29,000 – $41,000/year). Waiters in fine dining establishments earn higher wages due to the premium prices of meals and a more affluent customer base, resulting in higher tips.
• Casual Dining Restaurants: $10.50 – $14.00/hour ($22,000 – $30,000/year). Casual dining waiters earn decent wages, with tips being less substantial than in fine dining but still a significant part of their overall earnings.
• Hotel and Resort Dining: $12.50 – $16.00/hour ($26,000 – $34,000/year). Waiters working at hotels and resorts often serve larger groups of customers and can earn higher wages due to more guests and premium tips.

Average Salary by City and State

• New York City, NY: $15.00 – $18.00/hour ($31,000 – $37,000/year). As one of the highest-paying cities for waiters, New York City offers excellent opportunities for waiters due to the high volumes of customers and generous tipping culture.
• Los Angeles, CA: $13.00 – $16.00/hour ($27,000 – $33,000/year). LA, known for its vibrant dining scene, provides good opportunities for waiters, particularly those working in upscale restaurants and tourist-heavy areas.
• Chicago, IL: $12.00 – $15.00/hour ($25,000 – $32,000/year). Chicago offers a moderate to high-paying range for waiters, with good opportunities in restaurants in business districts and entertainment areas.
• Las Vegas, NV: $14.00 – $17.00/hour ($29,000 – $35,000/year). In Las Vegas, a major hub for tourism, waiters in casinos, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues often earn higher wages due to the large influx of tourists and higher tips.

Salary by Work Environment

• Upscale Restaurants: $15.00 – $20.00/hour ($31,000 – $41,000/year). Upscale venues often have the highest salaries for waiters due to the expectation of high-quality service and larger tips.
• Fast Casual and Quick Service: $10.00 – $12.00/hour ($21,000 – $25,000/year). Quick-service restaurants or fast casual dining typically offer lower wages and less generous tips compared to higher-end venues.

Tips as Part of Earnings

Note that for waiters, tips make up a large part of the salary. In the USA, waiters often earn an hourly base wage below the federal minimum wage, with tips constituting the majority of their income. 

The better the service, the larger the tip, with some high-end establishments seeing tips as high as 20-25% of the bill.

Benefits of Waiter Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the benefits:

Competitive Earnings Potential

Waiter jobs in the USA offer a unique opportunity to earn a base salary and tips. Tips can significantly boost overall earnings, especially in upscale restaurants or busy tourist destinations. 

In some high-end dining establishments, experienced waiters can make a substantial amount, even surpassing their base hourly wage. 

The potential for earnings is often higher than many other entry-level jobs, making it a popular choice for foreigners looking to work in the USA.

Visa Sponsorship and Legal Work Opportunities

One of the key advantages of waiter jobs with visa sponsorship is the opportunity to legally work in the USA. 

Many restaurants and hospitality businesses sponsor foreign workers on non-immigrant work visas such as H-2B or J-1. These visas allow foreign workers to live and work in the USA temporarily, with the possibility of renewal or extension. 

Experience and Career Growth

Working as a waiter in the USA provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, customer service-oriented industry. 

This experience can lead to career advancement opportunities within the hospitality industry, such as becoming a shift supervisor, restaurant manager, or operations manager. Also, many employers offer promotions or higher-paying roles as you gain skills and knowledge.

Cultural Exchange and Networking

For foreigners, working as a waiter in the USA is a great way to immerse themselves in American culture. It offers the opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, make new connections, and build a professional network in the hospitality industry. 

The experience allows you to improve language skills, especially English, which can be valuable for future career opportunities.

Employee Benefits and Perks

Many restaurants and hospitality companies offer employee benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, employee discounts, and more. Full-time employees may also be eligible for retirement plans, depending on the employer. 

Additionally, certain companies offer housing assistance, especially for remote or rural locations, which can be a major perk for foreign workers.

Flexibility and Job Stability

Waiter jobs often come with flexible hours, including evening, weekend, and holiday shifts. This flexibility can allow workers to balance their work with personal activities or even pursue further education. 

The high demand for waitstaff in the USA, especially in tourist-heavy regions and large cities, provides job stability. 

Restaurants and hospitality venues are often looking for skilled waitstaff, ensuring a steady stream of employment opportunities.

Access to the Vibrant Hospitality Industry

The USA boasts one of the largest hospitality industries in the world. Working as a waiter can open doors to other opportunities within this expansive field. 

Foreign workers can gain valuable experience that can lead to other roles such as bartending, event planning, or hotel management. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do waiters get tips in the USA?

Yes, waiters in the USA typically receive tips, which are an essential part of their income. Tips usually account for a significant portion of a waiter’s earnings, with the standard rate ranging from 15% to 20% of the total bill. In upscale venues, tips can be considerably higher.

How much do restaurant workers get paid in the USA?

Restaurant workers’ pay varies depending on the role. For example, servers typically earn a base hourly wage between $2.13 and $15.00, with tips providing a large portion of their income. Kitchen staff and other support staff usually earn between $10.00 and $18.00 per hour, depending on experience and location.

How can I pass my waiter interview with no experience?

To pass a waiter interview with no experience, focus on demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, a willingness to learn, and an ability to handle fast-paced environments. Research the restaurant, practice common interview questions, and show enthusiasm for providing excellent customer service.

What is the minimum salary of a waiter in the USA?

The minimum salary for a waiter in the USA depends on state laws. In many states, the minimum wage for tipped employees is around $2.13 per hour, though some states require higher minimums. Non-tipped employees, like those in managerial roles, typically earn the standard state minimum wage, which varies by location.

Do waiters pay tax on tips in the USA?

Yes, waiters in the USA are required to pay taxes on tips. Tips are considered taxable income, and waiters must report them to the IRS. Failure to report tips can lead to penalties. Employers typically include tips in payroll for tax purposes, but waiters must keep accurate records.

Which state employs the most waiters in the US?

California employs the most waiters in the US due to its large population and thriving tourism industry. Other states with high demand for waitstaff include New York, Florida, and Texas, where hospitality and tourism industries are significant economic contributors.

Who is the highest-paid waiter in the world?

The highest-paid waiters in the world work in exclusive, high-end restaurants or private establishments, often in major cities like New York, Paris, and Dubai. Some top-tier waiters working in luxury venues can earn up to six figures, particularly when tips and commissions are included.

What is the demand for waiters in the US?

The demand for waiters in the US remains strong, particularly in high-traffic areas such as cities with booming hospitality and tourism industries. The growth of the restaurant and hospitality sectors ensures that there is consistent demand for waitstaff, especially in tourist destinations and urban centers.