paolahydra

Hi everyone!
This is my first post here, but I have been watching this forum for a while!
Thank you all for your help!


I am leaving for the US in about a week on a J-1 status as student intern, 29 days before the start date on my DS-2019.

Since I am going to do a wonderful job, I would like to start asap!
But I am almost sure I am not allowed to do that, and that I will have to wait until April 1 to get started in my lab.


The point is: is that really true? where is it written?

Thank you for your hints!

ian-mstm

While you may be allowed to enter the US prior to the start of your J-1 internship, you can't work until the start date on the application. The time you are in the US prior to that is a courtesy.

So, I guess what you're really trying to ask is "Will I get caught?" I've no idea!

Ian

paolahydra

Thank you a lot for your answer.
But no, I wasn't trying to ask that.
I was really asking for references to sources for this rule.

It makes sense to me that if the DS-2019 starts from April, I cannot work before. But, after all, I will still be in the US under a J-1 visa, with everything set up, health insurance included.

Therefore, it could be not so weird, as well, if I could start working few days before.

I want to know the law for staying in it.
Thank you again