Question
Can I work in the US?
18 November 2017. Related: Access to treatment, All topics, Travel.
I am a teacher and I have been offered a job in New York, America, I am a U.K. Resident. My question is will my HIV status affect my application for a workers visa? Also will it affect my medical insurance, will I be eligible for medical insurance?
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
Medical insurance is offered to people who are living with HIV. However, like others who live in the US you’ll need to shop around and see what’s on offer. The premium is likely to be higher given that you’re positive.
If you’re moving to the US due to work, then ideally your new employer should offer you insurance. It might be worth asking them about this.
You being positive shouldn’t have any impact on your applying for a work visa. However, its always worth contacting the American Embassy directly. For more info about traveling to the US, please see here:
http://www.hivrestrictions.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=12
Hello Tobie and thank you for the message.
Unfortunately, we are based in the UK and don’t know the conditions for travel or relocation around the world.
Please see this site that may have more information: https://www.hivtravel.org
Hi I am from Zimbabwe currently working in South Africa as a truck driver but I want to work in USA in the same line of work. Would I be able to work there if I am HIV positive?
Hi Nteseng, as the US operates with a private healthcare system access to ARVs will primarily be determined by your health insurance.
When applying for work you can enquire about their health insurance policy and if ARVs will be covered.
You can also contact HIV charities in the state in which you are applying to find further information about additional methods of access.
Hi my name is Nteseng from south Africa I considering applying for work in the USA I am on arvs my question is will the USA government supply me with arv as in south African koz I don’t want to visit but I want to work in America
Hi Stanley, no you will not be denied entry to the United States. How long are you planning on staying for?
Access in the US can be tricky and as you will not have insurance can be very expensive out of pocket. Are you able to plan for having enough ARVs to last the duration of your trip? You would not be deported for running out of medication but there would be a risk of not being able to access treatment.
Hi am from Nigeria, God’s willing might be invited next year to United States by a family member for an event,My question is will i be denied coz am HIV positive and let’s say the ARV am traveling with, finished during my stay in the United States,what will happen, will i be deported or can i be given ARV by the U.S Government