British Expatriate Network

I've been out here on my L1 for almost 3 years and it expires in mid-August. I've been offered and have accepted a new job out here and they are trying to get me an H1B - I actually plan to return home in mid 2005 anyway.

However, the educational evaluation services out here seem to think that any education outside the UK is worthless. You must have a bachelors degree or the equivalent thereof for the H1B.

Although I don't have a degree, I have 10 GCSE's, 4 A Levels, and am a qualified accountant (ACCA), but apparently none of that counts!!!!!!! They need 3 years of work experience for every year of a degree and since I've only been working for 10 years I cannot match the requirements for a 4 year US bachelors degree.

Any help or suggestions appreciated!

Scott

I know virtually bollock-all about this, but I had one thought Is it an L1A or L1B. If the former, could you not apply for a greencard (permanent resident status) at your current company, then change jobs once you have your AOS (Adjustment of Status) thingy filed?

Thanks for the info monster, I have the L1 specialized knowledge which I think is the B - they originally turned me down for the A bcos I did not have enough employees (I 'only' had 10 at the time!!!!)

As I have already resigned from my current position and have only 7 weeks to go before I leave I guess applying for the green card is not possible in the time, but may be worth exploring.

The most frustrating thing on my part is I know I have the education and professional experience of someone only 21 with a bachelors degree.....the INS, BCIS or USICS (their latest) name have been nothing but trouble to me since I came out here and I try and do everything by the book.

Will keep the forum posted on what happens.

It looks like my problems have been solved as the educational and experience evaluator has had a change of heart and has decided that I do indeed have all the right qualifications so now my application is being processed.

Anyone know of any pitfalls from here on in ?

Don't know of any pitfalls, but if it were me, I wouldn't look too hard ;) Good luck!

Yes, all the H visas have run out until October! How are you going to get one in 7 weeks?

Your qualifications are fine, but as I see you have already found that bit out wink

I plan to cheat somewhat, my existing L1 does not end until August and I will not be on a payroll after my current employment finishes. I will also re-enter for 6 weeks on and old B1 on the premise of training then return again to the UK to get the H1B put in the passport.

Well, I can't think of any other obsticles then. Good luck )