Can I work for a foreign company while on H1B?

Can I freelance on an H1B for a US Company outside of my primary employer? Generally, no. You can’t do any productive work for anyone other than the employer that petitioned for your visa. You must conduct only the duties outlined on your form(s) I-129.

Can you study while on H1B visa?

There is no need to notify USCIS if you start studying on H1B visa. As long as you are maintaining your H1b status as per the LCA and H1B approval, you are free to study for any percentage of your time in addition to your job.

Can you have H1B and F1 at the same time?

No you cannot have both F1 and H1B visa at a time together. If you have entered US with F1 visa as a student, you have to get transferred to H1B visa once after Optional Practical Training process. Holding two visas together is not permissible.

Can you apply for green card while doing PhD?

You may apply for a green card during your studies or after you have received your PhD. Typically speaking, this type of green card is applied for when the student enrolls for higher studies – but you can also apply once you have gotten your PhD and want to remain in the US research field.

Can I own a company in India while on H1B?

Anyone can own/form a company in the U.S. The fact that you are on an H-1B visa does not prohibit you from doing so.

Does MBA qualify for H1B?

To apply for an H-1B visa, you must have an employer sponsor. Since visas are allocated first to master’s students, then to bachelor’s, MBA graduates with both degrees can enter the lottery twice. Graduates from STEM-certified MBAs have an additional advantage.

Can spouse of H1B study in USA?

As long as the H1B visa holder’s permit is valid, the H4 visa holder can continue their stay with their spouse. They can open a bank account, get a valid driving license, study in the US, and even work in the US if they get employment authorization document (EAD).

Can I apply for H1B while studying on an F1 visa?

Engaging in OPT after graduating gives F1 students an interim phase where they can gain experience in their field of study while having time to search for an H1B sponsoring employer. However, F1 students may also apply directly for H1B from F1 status as long as they have found an employer to sponsor their H1B visa.

Can I do a PhD while on H-1B?

Yes you can pursue a PhD while working full time with an H1B. However, you cannot be compensated for any work in connection with the PhD program. It is possible to receive a second H-1B for the University TA/RA position.

Can a PhD holder apply for an EB-2 visa?

Because you are an H-1B holder with a PhD, this is likely the ideal option for you due to the fact that the EB-2 generally has a much shorter waiting period. Once you choose your green card, your employer must file an I-140 petition on your behalf and also obtain a PERM Labor Certification.

Can I apply for an H-1B visa on my own?

Yes, an employer can apply for an H-1B visa for you. No, you cannot apply on your own. Only an employer can apply for you. No, you do not need to finish your PhD in order to be eligible for an H-1B visa. No, your PhD advisor cannot adversely affect the visa application process.

Can a PhD holder apply for an O-1 visa?

If you have held your PhD for some time and have published material in your field, you may qualify. The main benefit of the O-1 visa is the fact that it can be renewed indefinitely. It is also a dual-intent visa, so pursuing a green card will not incur consequences. Put simply, this is a student visa.