Post PhD visa?

[grace246]

Hi all,

I'm going to be starting a PhD program in the fall, and was wondering how easy it is to get a visa to stay in the US after graduating (assuming you get some kind of job in academia)? If it makes any difference, I'm currently in the US on a J-1 visa, as a specialist at a University.

Thanks

[see_bella]

It is easier to get h1-b sponsorship and green card sponsorship once you have your PhD. Speaking from personal experience.

[TakeruK]

I know someone on a J-1 visa who easily got a 3 year extension to stay in the US after his PhD to do a post-doc (which he is currently doing). After that, he will be affected by the home country return requirement though, and stay there (Canada) for 2 years before being able to apply for the H visas. I think in order to get that 3 year extension, you must have the post doc offer before your J1 expires (i.e. before you graduate with PhD).

[see_bella]

Agree with TakeruK. There is also the option of getting the exemption from your home country so you won't have to return there and will be able to apply for the H. We were F1 so the process is a bit different/easier than J1. Talk to your DSO or an immigration attorney.

[aberrant]

I believe you'll switch your VISA from J-1 to F-1 when you begin your phd study. as long as you will be a full-time student/scientist at an institution for a minimum of 1 year, you are eligible to apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training). I don't think Poli Sci considered a science / STEM program and therefore I think you'll have 12 months to find a job/position and work under a valid OPT status. This condition is also a transitional phrase that allows you to apply / obtain H-1B work visa.

[new_to_kin]

I believe you'll switch your VISA from J-1 to F-1 when you begin your phd study. as long as you will be a full-time student/scientist at an institution for a minimum of 1 year, you are eligible to apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training). I don't think Poli Sci considered a science / STEM program and therefore I think you'll have 12 months to find a job/position and work under a valid OPT status. This condition is also a transitional phrase that allows you to apply / obtain H-1B work visa.

This. Exactly. I did OPT - beware though, going in and out of the country on OPT isn't easy unless you have employment in the US

[Galahad]

This. Exactly. I did OPT - beware though, going in and out of the country on OPT isn't easy unless you have employment in the US

This. It's tricky and complicated and best.

If you travel while on OPT, please carry a leter from your employer or your employment contract or something. It can mean the world!