To Jaxen...doc going crazy about H1/J1 choice

M

Maui

Registered Users (C)
Thanks in advance.

I also posted this below, but I am hoping to just catch your attention so here goes again:

I just read that INS processing of change of nonimmigrant status (ie from B to H/J) takes at least 2 months...how long does it take if a lawyer facilitates it? If it takes this long then I think it would be impossible for me to take the visa-qualifying medical exam in late March and expect to get results in April, then apply for change status, then start residency in July.

From how I see it, my only options are to go back to my home country after taking the exam and apply for H1 at home (but risk not being able to get any visa due to time constraints or a flunked exam) OR go for J1 ASAP (note: Educational Commission of Foreign Medical Graduates J1 sponsorship also takes 4-6 weeks, not including getting the visa stamp at home).

Please advice what you can...

Is it still feasible to go for H1 or should I just take the J1 option to be safe?
 
ABout CSA

The vQE you are talking about is CSA or Step III right?

Are u sure that a residency program will be ready to sponsor you for H1 starting July , if you are only taking the CSA/STep III in march?? Either exam has a 6-8 week delay for results followed by application for H1. If the program is ready for premium processing(extra $1000 to them), then you may get everything in time, to stamp H1 from say mexico. Avoid j1 if possible. I am assuming you have a pre-match position right?
Also may want to post in the physician area of the forum
 
Take step 3 ASAP, get results (hopefully a pass), then pay $1000 for premium processing and start residency in July. If you can find a program that sponsors H1, then I see no problem. You can pay the $1000 from your pocket.
 
Thanks. I talked to an atty. and he advises me to change status only after 60 days, and not to risk getting stamped in Canada, so I can ensure starting residency in July.

Also talked to program (yes, prematch), they say okay to sponsor me mid-May, 60 days after I enter US, but I won't be able to go home for the stamp. Hope I pass Step 3!!

Thanks for all your help! I'm learning a lot about immigration issues.
 
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