B1/B2 - How long?

[dapups]

I used to live and work in the US on an H-1. I moved to India for a couple of years and my H-1 expired. I have now found a job in New York with an India based company and they are ok with me working there on a B1/B2 and will apply for an H1 in Apr 2008.

While my B1/B2 allows 10 years multiple entry what is the maximum stay allowed in one go? Is it 1 month or 3 months or 6 months? If I tell the immigration officer I need to stay for 5 months will it look fishy?

Also lets say I get a stamp for 6 months. Then can I need to leave in 6 months - is there a minimum advisable period before which re-enter?

 

[PraetorianXI]

B1/B2 Usually get a 6 month entry. Unless the officer at the POE suspects the alien will immigrate or there is something fishy.

However you CAN NOT WORK with a B1/B2 visa. That is Illegal and results in your visa being voided. And if you spend 6 months in the US, you should wait at least 6 months before re-entering.

 

[Triple Citizen]

Think twice about working for someone who is blatantly encouraging/advising you to break the law!!!

I have now found a job in New York with an India based company and they are ok with me working there on a B1/B2 and will apply for an H1 in Apr 2008.