Desperate to live and work in NYC (Union, Belfast: employment, school)

[Carrie Bradshaw]

Hi there

I am 32 years old, I am from Belfast, Northern Ireland and I want to live and work in NYC!! I have all the relevant exams and experience (Office worK) and have 4 years working as a Supervisor for the European Union - in conjuction with The Good Friday Agreement (The troubles). I have been going round in circles trying to find out how I go about working legally in NYC. I contact lawyers online - email them my Resume - ask for advice on visa's etc, but no-one replies! I have been to NYC 5 times on holiday over the last 10 years -it has cost me a fortune - but it's not enought - I WANT TO LIVE AND WORK THERE.I know after 9/11 things tightened up security wise, but, can anyone advise me how to go about sorting this out.
Any advice would be appreciated.

[ontheroad]

In order to work in the States, before and certainly after 9-11, one needs a valid visa. I believe it is/was H-1 or H-2. These visas are generally worked out between an employer and an employee.

One has to qualify and meet certain specifications for H-visa entitlement. If you check the immigration office you'll find the qualifying attributes required. One I remember, clearly, is that no one in the States has the same professional qualifications as the said candidate (you).

I've helped dozens of medical professionals get visas, but always through the medical school, and with support from our Personnel Department and most often with an attorney.

If you come to the States, again and find employment, you can then have them apply for you.

I don't think there is any other way to do this now. Perhaps someone who has done it recently has more info.

Good luck (and I am a might surprised that the legal folks you've written to have responded. Legal fees for visa application and entitlement often run as high as USD5000 or more).

[Carrie Bradshaw]

Thanks for that ontheroad.
Appreciate it
Carrie