I am currently a Sri Lankan citizen on Optional Practical Training (OPT). My OPT expires on April 15th. I have found a job here in the US and they are willing to sponsor my H1-B.
However given that the current H1-B cap is over (I have a Bachelors and hence cant apply for the 20k new H1Bs issued for people with a Masters or more) and because my current OPT expires on April 15, teh company has given me a start date of Oct 1st. This means that I would have to apply for the next H1-Bquota for FY2006.
After the recent tsunami that affected Sri Lankan and other countries, the Department of Homeland Security issued a press release (http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=4277 ) saying that people already paroled into the US may apply for an extension. Teh wording is as follows:
"For individuals who have already been paroled into the U.S., the period of parole may be extended. USCIS will also more readily approve applications from visitors from the tsunami-affected countries who are requesting a change or extension of their nonimmigrant status. Standard requirements for security checks will remain in place under expedited procedures. "
I am wondering if there is anyway for me to apply for an extension on my OPT or obtain a temporary work visa so taht I can work beyond April 15th? This would enable me to start my job before my current Oct 1st start date since currently the company doesn't want me to start now since I wouldn't be able to work for 5 1/2 mths (april 15- Oct 1st).
Any help/adivce will be most appreciated.
Thank you.
However given that the current H1-B cap is over (I have a Bachelors and hence cant apply for the 20k new H1Bs issued for people with a Masters or more) and because my current OPT expires on April 15, teh company has given me a start date of Oct 1st. This means that I would have to apply for the next H1-Bquota for FY2006.
After the recent tsunami that affected Sri Lankan and other countries, the Department of Homeland Security issued a press release (http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=4277 ) saying that people already paroled into the US may apply for an extension. Teh wording is as follows:
"For individuals who have already been paroled into the U.S., the period of parole may be extended. USCIS will also more readily approve applications from visitors from the tsunami-affected countries who are requesting a change or extension of their nonimmigrant status. Standard requirements for security checks will remain in place under expedited procedures. "
I am wondering if there is anyway for me to apply for an extension on my OPT or obtain a temporary work visa so taht I can work beyond April 15th? This would enable me to start my job before my current Oct 1st start date since currently the company doesn't want me to start now since I wouldn't be able to work for 5 1/2 mths (april 15- Oct 1st).
Any help/adivce will be most appreciated.
Thank you.
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