Frustrated at trying to get an H1B

[Karishma]

So, I'm from the UK and I passed the FPGEE in Decemeber 2007 and have also recieved my certificate.

I want to do my internship in Boston, Massachusetts. I would prefer to do it in hospital and I have found a hopsital who is willing to take me on as an intern (voluntary).

The problem is this. The hospital cannot sponsor me for an H1B visa, and I'm now unsure what to do next. I understand that I cannot apply for an H1B visa myself.

So I want to raise 2 questions.

1) How do I get an H1B visa?
2) If my intern is voluntary, do I still need an H1B visa or can I apply for another visa?

Anyone who can help me, please do!

Much appreciated
Karishma

[fpgeetaker]

Hi,
To get H1B visa, you must to find an employer to sponsor you. Some chain pharmacies like Rite Aid or Walgreens has this policy for people who earned FPGEC.

If you do not have a working visa or a working permit, you may not volunteer at the hospital. Although you are eligible to work, they just assign you very simple work because a volunteer does not have to take on many reponsibilities.

As I know, some non-working visas are allowed to work voluntarily but for non-profit oganizations.
Good luck!

[anacleto85]

Hi Karishma,

Only the employer can file an application for an H1B visa and you have to receive a salary (the same salary that an American intern receives).

You can get a non-working visa and work as a volunteer without being paid, but than the employer must be a non-profit organization.

Also remember that for many visas you have to show that you do not want to immigrate to the US. If you do a pharmacy internship you do want to immigrate. So the best option is an H1B.

Good luck!

[mamamia2008]

Unfortunately.....

You need an employer to sponsor a H1B. Contact Walgreens and Riteaid and they will take you. Maybe not at your preferred location but atleast you are getting something to begin with. If you have atleast two petitions, there is a better chance for you to get through the lottery. My friend was sponsored by Rieaid and Walgreens and he got through the Walgreens petition. Good luck!