Hi,

I had a J1 visa from October 2007-october 2008 in a hotel in NY. In April 2008, I tried the H1b, to extend my stay after the J1 finishes. Unfortunately, I didn't even make it through the lottery. After my J1 ended, I went back home to Belgium. I'm now back in the USA, just on the waiver program, so just with my passport, as a tourist. I'm flying back to Belgium at the end of February. I don't know what to do! I would like to come back to work in the USA but I don't know how. I have seen some lawyers, but all they seem to care about is money only!
Today, someone told me that I should stay here and wait for the new rules because it's probably going to change with the new presidency. I don't want to be illegal!
Does anybody know if immigration laws are going to change now with the new president?
Can anybody suggest me something please?

Thank you so much for your reply,

Julie.

+ If you enter US on visa waiver program, you cannot extend your stay, except in emergency situation such as you have an accident and have to be in the hospital, etc.

+ If you seek employment in US, you must have job offer from US employer first. With this economic situation, it's not easy... but the number one rule is if you overstayed in US, you are not eligible to obtain any other non-immigrant visa.

+ With this economic recession, and unemployment rate almost hits 10%, do not expect amnesty or any changes in immigration laws...