[WestKen]

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

[Folinskyinla]

Originally Posted by WestKen 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!

[meauxna]

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.

[Folinskyinla]

Originally Posted by meauxna 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.

[augigi]

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.

[crg]

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.

[WestKen]

Thanks all for your input - much appreciated!