The United States is one of the most popular countries for people looking for job opportunities. From construction and hospitality to healthcare and security, there are many types of jobs open to foreign workers. One area that continues to grow is the demand for night shift security guards.
Night shift security guard jobs in the USA for foreign applicants are available across the country. These roles are ideal for people who are reliable, alert, and willing to work during nighttime hours. Even if you are not a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you may be able to apply for such jobs under specific visa programs.
This article explains everything you need to know about finding, qualifying for, and applying to night shift security guard jobs in the USA as a foreign applicant.
What Does a Night Shift Security Guard Do?
A night shift security guard is responsible for protecting property, people, and assets during the night. Most security guards work in buildings, factories, hospitals, schools, and gated communities. The night shift usually starts in the evening and ends in the early morning, when there are fewer people around.
Their main tasks include:
- Monitoring security cameras
- Patrolling buildings or outdoor areas
- Checking doors and gates to make sure they are locked
- Responding to alarms or emergencies
- Writing reports about activities or incidents during the shift
- Stopping unauthorized entry or criminal activity
Why the USA Needs Night Shift Security Guards
The U.S. has a large number of businesses, offices, warehouses, and institutions that operate around the clock. Even at night, these places need protection from theft, vandalism, or break-ins. This is why night shift security guards are in high demand, especially in cities with high crime rates or busy industries like logistics, retail, and healthcare.
Some U.S. cities and states face labor shortages and cannot find enough people to work night shifts. Because of this, many companies and security agencies are now open to hiring foreign workers, including those who are already in the U.S. on a visa or those applying from overseas.
Can Foreign Applicants Apply?
Yes, foreign applicants can apply for night shift security guard jobs in the USA. However, they must meet certain legal and job-related requirements. The most important step is to get a valid U.S. work visa. Some employers may even offer visa sponsorship if they cannot find enough local workers.
You can also apply for security guard jobs if you are:
- In the U.S. on a valid work visa
- A student (F-1 visa holder) with work authorization
- A refugee or asylum seeker
- Applying through a temporary worker visa like H-2B
What Visa Types Are Available?
There are different types of U.S. visas for people looking for work. If you’re applying for night shift security guard jobs in the USA for foreign applicants, here are some visa options:
H-2B Visa
This is a temporary visa for non-agricultural workers. Security guard jobs may qualify under this category, especially if the employer proves there are not enough local workers. This visa is seasonal and typically lasts for a few months up to one year.
TN Visa
Available only for Canadian and Mexican citizens under the USMCA agreement (formerly NAFTA). It allows certain professionals to work in the U.S. Security roles may qualify if they include supervisory or technical duties.
J-1 Visa
This visa is mainly for students and trainees. Some internship or training programs in security or law enforcement may qualify. It’s limited in time but good for gaining experience.
Green Card (Permanent Residency)
If you already have a green card, you can apply for any security guard job in the U.S., including night shifts. Some employers may help you get a green card after working with them for a certain time.
Basic Requirements for the Job
Even though most security guard jobs do not require a college degree, employers will still look for some important qualities and basic requirements:
- Must be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on the state
- Have a clean background (no serious criminal record)
- Be physically fit and able to stay alert all night
- Basic English skills to communicate and write reports
- Legal permission to work in the U.S.
- High school diploma or equivalent (in some states)
- Valid state security guard license (can be obtained after training)
Some states, like California, New York, and Florida, require security guards to complete a short training course and pass an exam before getting a license.
Responsibilities of a Night Shift Security Guard
If you are hired for night shift security guard jobs in the USA as a foreign applicant, you will be expected to carry out duties such as:
- Checking buildings, parking lots, and gates for any suspicious activity
- Watching video surveillance feeds
- Reporting incidents to supervisors or police
- Preventing theft, vandalism, or loitering
- Logging your patrols and observations in a report
- Escorting workers or visitors safely out of buildings
- Responding to fire alarms or emergencies
Places That Hire Night Shift Security Guards
There are many types of places that hire security guards to work at night. These include:
- Warehouses and factories
- Construction sites
- Shopping malls
- Office buildings
- Banks and ATMs
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Apartment buildings
- Hotels
- Schools and colleges
Average Salary of Night Shift Security Guards in the USA
Security guard wages in the U.S. vary depending on the state, city, and employer. However, working night shifts usually pays slightly more due to the late hours.
- Average hourly wage: $15 to $22
- Monthly pay: $2,400 to $3,800
- Yearly income: $30,000 to $45,000
Some positions may also offer overtime pay, especially on weekends and holidays. Experienced guards, those with special skills (like armed security), or those working in big cities may earn more.
Where to Find Night Shift Security Guard Jobs
There are many places where foreign applicants can search for these jobs:
- Online job boards like Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, and SimplyHired
- Recruitment agencies that help companies find foreign workers
- Security company websites such as G4S, Allied Universal, and Securitas
- Government job portals like SeasonalJobs.dol.gov
Tips for Getting Hired
If you want to increase your chances of being hired, follow these helpful tips:
- Get basic security training in your home country before applying
- Prepare a resume that shows your skills, fitness, and availability
- Be ready to work flexible hours and weekends
- Learn basic English, especially safety-related words and phrases
- Be honest about your visa status and work history
- Avoid scams and never pay large fees to agents promising U.S. jobs
Can You Get a Green Card Through This Job?
In some cases, yes. If an employer is happy with your work, they may be willing to sponsor you for permanent residency through an employment-based visa. This is more likely if you work for a large company or if the employer has a shortage of workers in your area.
However, it’s not guaranteed. Most foreign workers start with a temporary visa and later apply for a green card after gaining experience.
Can You Bring Your Family?
If you’re coming to the U.S. on a visa that allows family members (such as some long-term visas), your spouse and children may be able to join you. However, short-term visas like H-2B do not always allow family accompaniment.
If your family is allowed, your spouse may be able to apply for a work permit, and your children can attend school.
Pros and Cons of Night Shift Security Jobs
Pros
- Good pay for non-skilled work
- High demand in many cities
- Night shifts usually pay more
- Opportunity for visa sponsorship
- Can lead to permanent job or green card
Cons
- Requires staying awake all night
- Can be lonely or stressful during emergencies
- May require state license and background checks
- Temporary visas may have limits
- Some areas can be high-risk depending on the location
Final Thoughts
Night shift security guard jobs in the USA for foreign applicants offer a real opportunity for people who want to live and work in the United States. These jobs are important, in demand, and open to international workers who meet the requirements.
You don’t need a college degree or special qualifications. With basic training, good health, legal documents, and the ability to work during the night, you can start building your career in the U.S. security industry.
Start by researching employers, improving your English, and applying to companies that offer sponsorship. Whether you plan to stay short-term or work toward a green card, this career path can be a solid first step into life in the United States.