Legal Question in Immigration Law in Philippines

We are two Filipino citizens who have been working for our American Employer online for the past 15 months and he wants us to go and stay/live on a private yacht that he owns which is permanently stationed in Hawaii. What is our best option to be able to do this before the year ends (2012)?

� We have to stay there for at least three(3) years

� H1B is not an option for now because the application quota has reached the cap for this fiscal year but we would like to acquire this while we are in Hawaii

� Do you know anything about B-1 Yacht Visa? (Not the regular B-1 Visa)


Asked on 9/26/12, 4:28 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
VOLTAIRE T. DUANO VOLTAIRE T. DUANO LAW OFFICE

Since you are Filipino citizens and will work in the yachting industry as a crew member you would be needing a B1/B2 visa. This is because the yachts will be visit the waters of the USA in the course of its voyage. Thus, a B1/B2 is required for the non US crew members. The B1/B2 is an entry visa required to be used by yacht crew for entry to the US. It is important to take note that said visa is NOT a work visa and you are not permitted to work in the US.

You have to meet basic requirements before you can be entitled to B1/B2 Visa. Further, you have to take note of the following tips:

1. You are applying for a B1/B2 Visa being a crew member of a privately owned yachts.

2. You are not going to work and not seeking any work in the US.

3. Be truthful about your information.

The US embassy or consulate is where US visas are issued. You can apply in the Philippines as the country of origin but it may be a very long waiting time.

Your American employer should help you on the best options b y hiring a US Immigration attorney.

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Answered on 9/27/12, 8:09 am


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