How difficult it is to change from a j1 to a j2 visa?

[edwardortega007]

Hi. I came to the US on a J1 visa on 2004. My visa will be good until June 2007. My wife came with me as a J2 holder. The sponsor program that got us over here is willing to accept my wife as a future J1 holder.

My question is how difficult can it be for us to change from a J1 to a J2 in my case and from a J2 to a J1 in her case?. I have to say that we both are Colombian citizens and our visas say that we are not subject to the 212e.

Thanks

Edward Ortega.

 

[felix31]

Edward,

Thank you for your suggestion. I have replied to the private message you sent.
I gather that you are their teacher?

As of now, I have completed all requirements for my State, and only have student teaching left. Still, I would prefer to start working under Provisional License and substitute internship with one year of full time teaching. Will apply and contact the agency in the morning.

BTW, are you still looking to transfer to H1 visa?

In addition, since H1 quota is exhausted till April/October 2007, you may qualify to apply under US Masters quota if you have US masters degree.

If not, you can still convert to J2 visa (no problems) and get the new H1 visa (FY 2008). You may already know all this, but I will still summarize possible action plan.

Since your J1 expires in June 2007 and lets say your school county will sponsor your H1 visa.
Your wife will switch to J1 and you will apply for J2 at least few months before the expiration date in June 2007. Check for J1 & J2 processing times.

Then, as soon as you get J2, have all your H1 docs ready (make friends with someone in HR) and send your H1 application with the starting date of October 1, 2007.

Hopefully, the new H1 cap will not be exhausted by then and you will get your H1.

Best of luck!

P. S. I suggest you consult reputable immigration attorney to find out if this is really feasible.