may I sign job offer before visa/GC?

[vwatts 0]

Hello, I have a quick question for any of you who might know more. Am I allowed to sign an employment offer before I get the visa/green card? I have been offered employment in the US but am not sure if I may sign the agreement before I get my visa. I am afraid it's illegal. Or is it just illegal to physically work in the US before GC? Please help!

The wording is: I am pleased to offer you a position with our company as ..... ..... beginning July 1, 2007 or as soon as possible thereafter, depending on when you receive your immigrant visa to the USA.

[kim&james 0]

Since you filed for a CR/IR visa, when you arrive in the US, you will be either a conditional permanent resident (2 year card and file for removal of conditions 3 months prior to expiry of the date on said card) or legal permanent resident (if your marriage is over 2 years you get the 10 year card).

You will be able to work pretty soon after arriving allowing time for getting a SSN etc. Ask for a stamp at your POE. Im not sure if it is given to all who enter on this visa but would definately be given at JFK if asked for. This would tide you over till your GC arrives approx a month in most cases.

[vwatts 0]

But would it be legal to sign an agreement with this employer now, before I get the visa? Given the wording my post above? I have been married over 3 years and have SS# already from before (I was a student in US).

I thought the stamp is automatically given. Why would they not give it?

[kim&james 0]

But would it be legal to sign an agreement with this employer now, before I get the visa? Given the wording my post above? I have been married over 3 years and have SS# already from before (I was a student in US).

I thought the stamp is automatically given. Why would they not give it?

About the legalities of signing a work agreement personally I dont see the problem, however Im not a lawyer. Perhaps contact the HR department for the company offering the job and check with them. If it is a large company they would probably know. Other than that contacting a lawyer here in the US might be the next way to go. I have not heard of accepting a job offer prior to receiving a GC and entry to the US being a disadvantage during dealings with USCIS if that is your concern.

With regards to the stamp, you should get it but I have heard from others on here that they have been told they would receive their GC shortly so dont need it. Depends on the officer at the POE. Just ask.

[Kez/JWolf 6]

There is nothing to stop you from accepting a job offer before you arrive in the US.... when you enter your visa will be noted to say it will act as a temp I-551 and allows both work and international travel.... your actual Greencard will arrive a few weeks later, as you have your SSN you could start work the next day and it would be legal....

One thing you should do once you are here is to visit the SSA office and update your SSN records with your visa information....

Kez

[vwatts 0]

Thanks guys! That helps.