7 Common FAQs for Visa Conversion in NYC
Processing visa conversions in the U.S. can be a bit difficult, especially in a crowded immigrant area like New York City. Whether you’re a student looking to stay longer or a visitor seeking work opportunities, visa conversions can open doors. Here are seven visa conversion process-related questions that most people ask in a bid to be enlightened about the process in New York City.
1. What is Visa Conversion?
Visa conversion is the lawful change that permits non-citizens to navigate from one sort of visa to another whilst still in the United States. For example, an individual who graduated from the United States on an F-1 visa will be able to get a work H-1B visa as soon as they graduate after a successful conversion. Such visa conversions are managed by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and primarily allow foreigners to remain legally in the US while adjusting to their changing circumstances or needs.
2. Who can Get a Visa Conversion?
The specifics about who can get a visa conversion depends on the visa you hold at the moment and the visa you intend to transfer to. Visas like the F-1 student visa are however flexible, and so are other types of visas, while the B-2 tourist visa has many limitations to what one can do. It is imperative that you carry on with your activities legally and respect the conditions incurred by your visa. Consultation with an immigration lawyer may be useful in assessing your eligibility and chances of success on your application.
3. How Long Does the Conversion Process Take?
Processing times vary depending on the visa type and application specifics, ranging from weeks to months. For instance, F-1 to H-1B conversions can take several months, especially during the H-1B lottery season. Given the potential for delays, it’s wise to apply well in advance, particularly if you have a job offer or school deadline.
4. What Are the Most Common Visa Conversions in NYC?
Popular conversions in NYC include F-1 to H-1B, J-1 exchange visas to H-1B, and B-2 tourist visas to F-1 student visas. NYC’s strong job market and reputable educational institutions make it a prime location for these transitions, especially for international students looking to start their careers.
5. Can a Tourist Visa Be Converted to a Work Visa in NYC?
Converting a B-1/B-2 tourist visa to a work visa like H-1B is challenging and highly scrutinized by USCIS. Applicants must prove they did not enter the U.S. intending to find work, as this can raise “dual intent” concerns. In many cases, returning to your home country to apply for a work visa through consular processing may be simpler.
6. How Much Does a Visa Conversion Cost?
The cost depends on the visa type, with USCIS filing fees typically between a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. For example, Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) costs $370, while H-1B petition fees can reach up to $2,460. Attorney fees, while optional, can be an additional cost but are often worthwhile for guidance.
7. Is an immigration attorney needed in the process of conversion
While you can file a conversion yourself, recruiting an immigration attorney is important for complex cases. It is a great idea to consult with attorneys to make sure your forms are accurate, and all the paperwork filed is sufficient.Visa conversion cases are particularly common in NYC, thus the assistance of an attorney reduce the timeframe and enhance chances of a positive outcome. An attorney can help prevent delays and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Conclusion
The conversion of Visa means an excellent opportunity for non–citizens in New York City who wish to stay longer, transform their visas for different reasons, or exploit new opportunities. By knowing the eligibility, time, and cost of this process and asking for help when you need it, you can go through it more easily and gain what you want in NY.
Eliud Zavala, our New York immigration attorney, will help you with solid defense tactics to overturn your conviction or settle any issue surrounding your immigration status.