can J1 apply for green card?

[bobkkk]

Does anyone know whether J1-visa holders have lower chances for getting a green card than H1-B visa holders? In other words, is it safer for a J1 visa holder to first apply for H1-B and than for a green card rather than applying directly for a green card?

 

[mmed]

Does anyone know whether J1-visa holders have lower chances for getting a green card than H1-B visa holders? In other words, is it safer for a J1 visa holder to first apply for H1-B and than for a green card rather than applying directly for a green card?

J has the same chance like H if you fulfill the criteria of the GC category you are going to apply to and you are not subject/waived to/from the 2 year HHR

 

[nscagony]

Its safer to switch to H1B because you can maintain H1B status while your GC application is pending (dual intent visa). In case of J1 you won't be able to re-enter the US in J1 status. You can do it if you can file concurrently and get AP and EAD, but if your I-140 or I-485 get denied you have nothing to fall back on and have to leave the US immediately.