H1 vs J1
 

Hi all,

I am wondering if anyone can help me figure out
which of the two visa types (H1, J1) I should
apply for.

I am currently on F1-OPT doing a postdoc at an
educational institution. My OPT expires in December.
I would like to extend for 6 months, possibly
longer (depends on availability of funds).

Assuming that I can get the J1 2-year home country
requirement lifted, it seems to me that I should
try for a J1 as it costs less (my school hires a
lawyer for H1 cases).

My two questions are:

- Am I overlooking some reasons why I should try
for an H1 instead?

- Am I actually eligible for a J1? (I have been on F1 for
seven years.)

Thank you very much!

-Mark

Re: H1 vs J1
 

On Fri, 06 Sep 2002 23:55:58 -0700, Mark M wrote:


    > Hi all,
    > I am wondering if anyone can help me figure out which of the two visa types (H1,
    > J1) I should apply for.
    > I am currently on F1-OPT doing a postdoc at an educational institution. My OPT
    > expires in December. I would like to extend for 6 months, possibly longer (depends
    > on availability of funds).
    > Assuming that I can get the J1 2-year home country requirement lifted, it seems
    > to me that I should try for a J1 as it costs less (my school hires a lawyer for
    > H1 cases).
    > My two questions are:
    > - Am I overlooking some reasons why I should try for an H1 instead?

It depends on your further future plans. One advantage of an H-1B is that it allows
immigration intent. On the other hand, if you are married, a J-1 would allow your
wife to work.

    > - Am I actually eligible for a J1? (I have been on F1 for seven years.)

You should ask your international student advisor.