Legal Question in Immigration Law in California
Extra income as a temporary worker
I am currently on a temporary religious visa (R1). I am wondering if in this status I am legally allowed to receive any money, other than the wage that I get from church. I am not thinking about another employer, but incidental sources of income: selling stuff on Ebay, getting paid for participating to surveys, helping a friend remodel his house, etc
Also, will this affect me in the future, if I ever decide to apply for a Green Card?
Thank you for your time.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Extra income as a temporary worker
Thank you for your email. While in the United States on the R-1 visa you are not allowed to work for and be paid by another employer. If you are selling goods on ebay and earning an income stream (as opposed to selling your own personal items) you are working without authorization. This is in direct violation of your visa.
In my opinion assisting a friend and participating in a survey do not rise to the level of employment.
Please feel free to contact me if I may be of further assistance. I may be reached (in San Diego) at 619.233.0900.
Sincerely,