permanent residency

[dionne1]

I am a British female living in the U.K.
On request, I have been offered a J1-visa from my employers to work in the US for 18 months, but will have to comply with the HRR Program after my term is up.

I would of preferred an H1-B visa which would entitle me upto 3 years and a further 3 if required.

I work in the Telecommunications industry and was hoping I was legible for a J1 Waiver allowing me to remain in the US, when the 18 months came to an end.

Alternatively, would you advise on applying to companies within the US on the basis of acquiring an H1-B. Although I do not obtain a degree, would I not be classed as a 'Mature Graduate' in respect of my age and work experience.

Much of my skills are within the I.T and Finance sector.

If none of the previous are applicable to myself do you have any alternative suggestions?

Getting married while on the J1 visa has come into mind, but I do not know how that would reflect on my status at the time and what the outcome could be.

Is it possible for me to change my status, submit all the necessary forms and documentation whilst still remaining in the US?

Would I have to return to the U.K for 2 years?

Regards and Thank you.

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[This message has been edited by dionne1 (edited August 07, 2000).]

[This message has been edited by dionne1 (edited August 08, 2000).]

 

[usdeeper]

You have to have at least 12 years experience to have any hope of getting a H1 without a degree. If you arrive in the US on ANY visa and get married, you can file for Adjustment of Status and stay as long as you want.

 

[dionne1]

Fortunately for myself, I have 15 years work experience in the I.T/Finance sector, which I think is definitely worth pushing for a H1-B visa.

On a different note;

As a mature adult, I would only require roughly 1 year to decide whether the marriage to my chosen US Citizen is the right choice for me.

Would the INS think the marriage not bona fide, in respect that we have known each other for less than two years? And what sort of documentation would the INS require for the proof of a geniune marriage? If some of the required documentation is not present will the INS decline the application?


Regards and thank you,

Dionne1

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[usdeeper]

Originally posted by dionne1:
As a mature adult, I would only require roughly 1 year to decide whether the marriage to my chosen US Citizen is the right choice for me.

I help out in the Family Law board too, maturity has little to do with it

Would the INS think the marriage not bona fide, in respect that we have known each other for less than two years?

Nope.. many people take the K1 fiancee visa route and only meet once before arriving in the US and marrying within 30 days. Providing you do not marry the 2nd day after arriving you will be ok. Remember that if you have a 3 year H1B visa, then you do not have to marry straight away.. but also realise that being fired from your job, having 30 days to leave the US and then getting married will look bad.

And what sort of documentation would the INS require for the proof of a geniune marriage?

Just general stuff that shows you have a continuing relationship. Joint bank account, joint apt lease, joint lease on the car, pictures together etc ..

If some of the required documentation is not present will the INS decline the application?

If you have a proper marriage, you have nothing to worry about. If they suspect, you may have problems yes.