Do you know if I'll be allowed to do voluntary work with a B2 visa?

By voluntary work I don't mean an internship or doing a job that would usually be paid but not taking any money for it, I mean 'proper' voluntary stuff that americans would also not be paid for - e.g. helping on a literacy project or something along those lines.

I just would like to be able to do something interesting and 'helpful' with some of my time while I'm in New York for 6 months

Thanks

Hi:

That is an extremely good question!

The consensus on your last thread is that yes, you are allowed to volunteer under your B status, but no guarantees on what the host organization requires.

You could put out some feelers now.. a lot of sities have a volunteer connections type of website.. a place you can find lots of opportunities listed etc.

Hi:

I like the way you worded the answer. IMHO, it is a very fuzzy area.

I volunteered at an animal shelter when I was on a B1/B2. They never asked any questions about my immigration status. It was just visiting to walk dogs and cuddle kitties, not something that is usually paid.

Generally, volunteer work is okay if:

1) No remuneration from any source
2) A task that people would normally volunteer to do without compensation
3) Benefits members of the community at large (often through a religious or non-profit org.)
4) Does not benefit a commercial enterprise

It's sort of gray in some areas and subject to interpretation. Soup kitchen, animal shelter etc would seem to fit. However, doing work on a friends house wouldn't fly. Neither would being a "volunteer" nanny for your USC aunts family.

Sticking with an organized non-profit or religious group would likely be safe as long as you aren't working in a professional capacity.

Thanks all for your input - much appreciated!