Question:
I'm planning to relocate to the US to work there on an H1 Visa. Since
I don't think I'll have a chance finding a job without being there in
person to interview for it, I am planning to enter the US next month
or so on Visa Waiver/Parole. I'd then try to find a job and if I do,
go back home (germany) to wait for the H1 Process to complete.
My question is, is it legal to do job interviews while on Visa Waiver?
I am asking because when entering the US the INS always asks whether
the purpose of the trip is 'Business' or 'Vacation'. If I state
Vacation, that might raise questions if they check my luggage and find
a copy of my resume, a business suit etc.
On the other hand, if I tell them I am going to interview for an H1
Job, am I setting myself up for trouble? Will a return ticket be
enough to convince them that I will not stay and work illegally?
Answer:
-It is not legal to enter for the purpose of conducting a job search,
although it is not illegal to enter for the purposes of attending a
documented interview. (i.e. you have the interview request letter in
your hands at entry).
A return ticket is not always enough to convince the INS of your intent
to return. All the items you mention, in your luggage would provide
reason to send you home if you don't have a pre-arranged interview.
- it is legal, although people did get into difficulties. The
problem is that while it's legal to *look* for a job (Stuart, I
disagree with you on that, it seems...) and to interview, it is not
legal to actually start the job - and the INS officer will likely
suspect that that is your plan.
