PLEASE ADVISE

vthomas · Posted : Thu Oct 25, 2007 Post subject: PLEASE ADVISE

I have scheduled for step 2 CS in June 2008. I am planning to do observership during the time period when i am staying in US for step 2CS.

Presently I am confused whether i should go for J1 or H1 visa for applying for residency? If H1, then can i appear for step 3 while doing observership in US?

If my wife is accompanying me to US when i get residency through H1 visa, can she also work anywhere there if she is on dependent visa?

root · Posted : Thu Oct 25, 2007 Post subject:

I will break down the visa situation in simple words for you:

You have two options: J1 or H1

* If you go for J1,
> visa paper work is simple
> most schools sponsor J1 candidates
> for dependents, they get dependent visa, which allows them to apply for EAD (employment authorization document) - which will allow them to work based on it.

* If you go for H1
> more competitive, only few colleges sponsor H1
> paper work is intensive - may need a lawyer.
> dependents can stay on H4 visa, but cannot work based on it. If they need to work, they will have to qualify for a work visa based on the job they apply for.

J1 requires that you leave US after studies for 2 years. To forgo that requirement , you will need to work in HSA areas for 3 years. (working for 5 years in such places can give you green card)