J-1 to H-1B

S

sanoye

New Member
Dear Members,

I'm currently on a J-1 visa. My IAP-66 expires 7/31/02. I got my H-1B for a physician waiver position approved 7/24/02(premium processing).
My H-1 period is between 9/01/02 and 8/30/05.

Will I still be in status considering my IAP-66 expires 7/31/02?
Do I need a new I-94 since my status will be changed from J-1 to H-1?
Is it OK to get a visa stamp in Mexico/Canada/England? My initial J-1 stamp was in England and my renewal stamp was at Mexico. I realise things have changed since 9/11.

Many thanks for your expert opinions.

sanoye
 
As per my understanding, a J-1 holder has to leave the US within 30 days of expiry of J-1 status. That way, you should be OK until your H-1B period starts. However, if you want to be extra sure, get an extension of one month for your current J-1 before July ends.

You don't need H-1B stamp unless you have international travel plans. You already have a new I-94 corresponding to the H-1B period. See the bottom of the original (not courtesy copy) H-1B approval notice from the INS. This new I-94 might have the same serial number as your current I-94 corresponding to J-1. Normally, the original approval notices are sent to the attorney and the courtesy copies to the beneficiary (so contact your attorney if you can't find new I-94 in your copy).

I heard (not sure) that Canada still issues visas to TCN (third country nationals) while Mexico has stopped issuing it. I am not sure. May be someone else with recent experience should reply you. Visit: https://www.nvars.com/use/wWelcome.jsp

Best wishes,

Jigesh

Disclaimer: Personal non-legal point of view only.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Dear Sir,

Many thanks for your prompt and sound reply. I really appreciate it. I don't have a copy of the original H-1B approval yet. It was sent to my attorney as you rightly said.

I already extended my IAP-66 in other to sit for my boards this month. It expires on 7/31/02. You are right about the 30 days grace period. I just wasn't sure whether I would be out of status since my H-1B starts 9/01/02.

I learn't from a trusted friend yesterday that a colleague of hers got the H-1B stamp in Canada. He changed from F-1 to H-1B.

Again, many thanks.

Sanoye
 
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