How are H-1B visa requests for postdocs reviewed?
Requests for H-1B visa status for postdocs are reviewed by a university review board. In the absence of compelling circumstances that support an H-1B request, the scholar is expected to be in J-1 visa status.
Can a postdoctoral scholar get a H-1B visa from Berkeley?
While most postdoctoral scholars are sponsored in J-1 Research Scholar status, the Berkeley campus, through the Berkeley International Office (BIO), will support applications from departments for postdoctoral scholars for H-1B visas if the request for H-1B is approved at the Deans level or Vice Chancellor for Research.
How long does it take to get H-1B approval?
It can take up to several months to obtain the necessary approvals. The university may use the H-1B classification for postdoctoral appointments that meet Labor department and USCIS requirements when both the position and the prospective employee meet the H-1B requirements. Fees for sponsoring H-1B status at UC Berkeley can be found here.
What can I do in Germany as a postdocs?
Tens of thousands of postdocs work as research associates, teachers, assistants or lecturers at German universities. Germany’s large non-university research institutes offer postdocs an excellent framework for developing their skills and qualifications by working in international teams on well-equipped interdisciplinary research projects.
Can international students become postdocs in the US?
International postdocs are sponsored on J-1 visas. Prospective postdocs in the U.S. on student visas may be appointed as postdocs for the period of their EAD card validity during their post-completion F-1 OPT.
How do I request a start and end date for H-1B?
The requested H-1B start and end date are based on the approved University appointment or employment offer, except with written agreement of the appropriate Dean, Personnel Office or Vice Chancellor for Research. Once this approval has been provided, BIO will facilitate the necessary paperwork.