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I am an Italian national, holding a J1 Visa, if my sponsor company goes out of business, how long can I legally stay in the country? Also can I obtain a change of status to the ESTA (Visa free waiver countries), or a B2 from within the USA without having to return to Italy? Thanks
3 ANSWERS
Immigration Law Attorney serving Los Angeles, CA
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Law Offices of Alan R. Diamante APLC
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Normally, you maintain durational status. However, the government can always ask you to leave if the business is closed. You can get more info as to change of status at the USCIS.gov web page.
Answered on May 21st, 2012 at 1:08 PM
Business Law Attorney serving Atlanta, GA
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Elkhalil Law, P.C.
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J visas have restrictions on change of status. If you find a different sponsor with same conditions you may have a chance to stay in the U.S. by changing sponsors.
Answered on May 18th, 2012 at 3:25 PM
Immigration Attorney serving Arlington, TX
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Law Office of Pho Ethan Tran, PLLC
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If you would like to remain in the US a little longer, you may try to change your status to any number of other categories including B2. The application for change of status (I-539) must be submitted before your current status expires or is terminated or you will be required to return home and reapply for admission.
Answered on May 18th, 2012 at 2:22 PM