From Application to Arrival: Our Complete Process

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SCHEDULE AN INTERVIEW

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RECEIVE JOB OFFER

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RECEIVE US EMBASSY APPROVAL

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MOVE TO THE USA

Processing Time and Requirements

H-2B Visa: Your Pathway to Temporary U.S. Employment

The H-2B visa process typically takes 3-6 months from start to arrival.

  • Visa Interview (2-4 weeks): Once the petition is approved, you apply for the H-2B visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country, which includes completing Form DS-160, paying the visa fee, and attending an interview.

The H-2B visa allows temporary employment for up to one year, with the possibility of extensions up to 3 years.

C1/D Visa: For Cruise Ship Professionals

The C1/D visa combines transit (C-1) and crewmember (D) purposes for workers on cruise ships, cargo vessels, and international airlines. The application process is streamlined:

  • Processing time: Typically 2-4 weeks after document submission

This visa is ideal for cruise ship professionals who want to gain U.S. work experience while exploring career opportunities that could lead to permanent residency.

EB-3 Visa: Your Bridge to Permanent Residency

For those ready to build a permanent future in America, the EB-3 visa leads to a green card and allows your family to join you:

  • Form I-140 Processing: Currently averages 8.1 months (or 15 calendar days with premium processing)

  • Visa Number Wait: Varies by country of origin and demand

  • Form I-485 Processing: Ranges from 7 to 32.5 months depending on various factors

  • Consular Processing: Includes application transfer to the National Visa Center and interview scheduling at your nearest U.S. Embassy

While the EB-3 timeline is longer, it offers what H-2B and C1/D visas cannot: permanent residency for you and your family, unrestricted employment opportunities, and a clear path to U.S. citizenship. Be sure to inquire about our H2B to EB-3 option!

We Guide You Through Every Step

Whether you're starting with an H-2B or C1/D visa or ready to pursue permanent residency through EB-3, TRC provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process—from initial application to your arrival in America.

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‍ ‍ EB-3 PROCESS AFTER 10/2025


The TRC Pathway

At “ The Recruitment Compass”, we specialize in connecting qualified professionals with U.S. employers offering work sponsorship. Our end-to-end approach removes the complexity from the immigration process, allowing you to focus on your career while we handle the details.

Strategic Candidate Matching

We don't just submit applications, we build the right connections. Our team conducts comprehensive evaluations to match your skills, experience, and career goals with vetted U.S. employers actively seeking global candidates. This strategic matching increases approval rates and ensures long-term job satisfaction.

Expert Immigration Navigation

The pathway to work abroad & permanent residency involves multiple government agencies, strict documentation requirements, and precise timing. We provide clear guidance through every phase: from labor certification to USCIS petition to consular processing, ensuring you understand what's happening and what's next at each stage.

Employer Sponsorship Facilitation

Securing employer sponsorship is the cornerstone of work abroad success. We work exclusively with established U.S. companies experienced in sponsoring foreign workers, coordinating all documentation, labor certifications, and compliance requirements. Our employer relationships mean faster placements and smoother approvals.

Continuous Support From Application to Arrival

Our process doesn't end with just an approval. We support you through visa processing monitoring, pre-departure orientation, and arrival coordination. Our commitment extends beyond placement—we ensure you're positioned for success in your new role and new country.

Ready to start your journey? Contact TRC today to explore opportunities that match your qualifications.

Two large cruise ships sailing on calm ocean waters at sunset with a mountain and partly cloudy sky in the background.

CRUISE SHIP CAREERS

Build Your Future at Sea And Beyond

​Your cruise ship career is more than a job, it's the beginning of your American journey.

At The Recruitment Compass, we specialize in C1/D visas for cruise ship professionals, but we don't stop there. We understand that today's contract work can become tomorrow's permanent opportunity. Whether you're looking to transition from sea to shore, bring your family to the U.S., or establish permanent residency, we provide the pathway forward.

For qualified candidates ready to put down roots, we facilitate EB-3 visa sponsorships that lead to green cards—opening doors to hotel careers, hospitality management positions, and permanent life in America for you and your family.

Ready to chart your course? Contact us to explore how your cruise ship career can become your gateway to permanent U.S. residency.

Positions Available

  • Guest/ Front Desk Services

  •  Housekeeping & Room Service

  •  Laundry Attendants

  • Food & Beverage (F&B) Staff:

  • Bartenders & Barbacks

  • Waiters / Server

  • Buffet & Dining Room Staff

  • Chefs / Sous Chefs/ Line Cooks

  • Kitchen & Galley Staff

  • Financial / Accounting Staff

  • Retail Shop Attendants

  • Spa / Wellness & Salon Staff

  • Entertainment / Activities staff (e.g. cruise director, performers, DJs, kids’ club staff)