Minimum wage, overtime and working hours
There's a federal minimum wage, but many states and cities set a higher one — and where they differ, you get the higher rate. Overtime rules depend on whether your role is classified as exempt.
There's a federal minimum wage, but many states and cities set a higher one — and where they differ, you get the higher rate. Overtime rules depend on whether your role is classified as exempt.
Key points to understand
Federal vs state/city minimum wage — you're entitled to whichever is highest
Federal vs state/city minimum wage — you're entitled to whichever is highest. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Non-exempt workers get overtime (usually 1.5×) beyond 40 hours a week; exempt ones don't
Non-exempt workers get overtime (usually 1.5×) beyond 40 hours a week; exempt ones don't. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Tipped work has its own rules and is a common source of underpayment
Tipped work has its own rules and is a common source of underpayment. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Practical tips
- Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
- Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
- Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.
Always verify with official sources before acting on the information above.
MyHAbroad is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any government or public authority. Content is general information only — not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official sources above before acting.