J1 to H1B Software Engineer

[i4indian]

Dear All,

I am a software professional with a job offer from a US company. Since th H1B for FY 2008 have exhausted, I have been informed by my
employer that I can still travel and legally work for them on a J visa. I had
a few questions in mind and was hoping if you can help me on the same.

1. Is it possible to travel on J visa and then convert the same to H1B in
April 2007 for FY 2008? Or will I have to come back and work in my home country for 2 years?
2. Do I need to take any special care if I choose this route?
3. Will this have any affect if in future I plan to apply for green card?
4. What do you recommend and why? Travelling on J now or waiting till April
2007 to apply for FY 2008?

FYI: I have travelled and worked in the US on L1A and L1B earlier.

Thanking you in anticipation.

 

[shae]

Hi,

I too am a Software Engineer and had the same situation as yuo are now.

And i agreed to the employer to take a J1 for me. But I am subject to the 2 year residency program on the basis of skills list. I am trying to get a waiver for that so i can convert to the H1 next year. there is no problems in travelling on the J1.it has its own advantages and disadvantages. I am also aware but not very sure that a J1 candidate who has obtained the waiver is not subject to the H1 annual cap.