TN Category for African American History Job

S

smanders

Registered Users (C)
Hello all,

I am hoping to be hired by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in D.C. for an 8 month, full time, fellowship. It is a paid position that would require a TN work visa as I am a Canadian citizen (living in VA following grad studies in Florida as an international student- was on an F1 Visa, but completed that last year).

My question is: Under what NAFTA job category does this fall under? I do have an MA in Africana Studies (African American History), and I still have two months left of OPT (Optional Practical Training). The title of the position is: African American Historic Places Initiative Fellowship (funded by the Ford Foundation). The duties include building a website for their database of historic sites, presenting a paper at a conference, etc.

This position is DIRECTLY related to my graduate degree- I also do web consultancy work here in the states for another black history website.

If I am hired after my second interview tomorrow, should I remain in the states and use up the rest of my OPT EAD card, and just visit the American Embassy here in VA/D.C. to apply for the TN?

Or, should I go home to Ontario and re-enter the States with documentation for the TN?

Unfortunately, I'm not in a position right now to afford a consultation, so any feedback is appreciated. Thanks so much.

Smanders
 
I hate to burst you bubble, but a Master's in Art's really doesn't qualify for a TN. Certain H1's are reserved for universities/learning institutions etc. I don't know if the Foundation would qualify. You need to check this out. If not then you'll have to wait until April 1 to apply for an H1 and hope that you win the H1 lottery like last year. In addition to this, even if you get an H1, it won't kick in until next October 1. Hopefully you get the H1 under a the exemption clause and don't have to wait.
 
Thanks for both your replies. I have an Employment Authorization Card that I can use until December 31st. I'm hoping to start working on this- pending I'm hired. What about the category of graphic designer? I will be doing web design as part of this job.

I'm trying to be creative...

I also have a Bachelor of Social Work, but would much prefer to work in my new field.

You think I would be denied at the border for a TN?

I would have to wait until April to apply, and possibly until October 1 to begin working- IF I manage to get an H1B?

Smanders
 
Question for Simsd

Who can I talk to to see if the National Trust for Historic Preservation qualifies as a Learning Institution reserved for certain H1B's?
 
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