I'm currently in the US on an H1B visa, and I'm thinking about taking some college courses. Is it possible to attend school as an H1B visa holder, or would I need to switch to a student visa?
Yes, you can study in the U.S. while holding an H1B visa, which is a type of work visa sponsored by an employer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, the study should not interfere with your work duties and work hours, as maintaining your employment is a condition of your H1B visa status.
Secondly, your studies must be incidental to your work status. This means your primary purpose for being in the U.S. needs to remain work, not study. Attending school part-time or taking online classes frequently fits this criterion.
Lastly, if you want to become a full-time student, or if your studying directly serves your job (for instance, if getting an advanced degree would promote your career), you might want to consider switching to a student visa (F1).
It's important to consult with an immigration lawyer or a trusted legal source about your specific situation to ensure you maintain a legal status. Variations in individual immigration situations can heavily impact your options. Your company's legal team or HR representative might be a good resource too.
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