J1 Visa and marriage?

Question

I have come to US last November on a J1 Visa (working permit for researchers) but I will get married to a US citizen in 6 weeks. My Visa is valid until Nov 2010. They told us that my husband will be able to file an application for my permanent residency but it may take 12-18 months. If my permanent residency status is pending, could I work anywhere in California? If not, can I keep my J1-Visa status in the meantime?

I am an Italian citizen and my J1 is not subject to the 2-year residence requirement

Thank you!

Answer 1

While your Adjustment of Status (AOS) is pending you can work either with J1 visa or EAD (Employement Authorization Document). You can apply EAD with your I-485 since the filing fee of I-485 includes the filing fee of I-765 (EAD) and I-131 (Advance Parole). By law, USCIS should make decision on EAD within 90 days from the Receipt Date. Good luck!

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/m...

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index....