Big Law Associates who didn't get the H1B lottery - what did you do? Forum

[Anonymous User]

Did your firms send you to an international office? Did you apply independently to firms in other countries that take U.S JDs? Did you have to pack up and leave back home?

I would appreciate any insights on this, based on your experience or anecdotally from a colleague!

[Anonymous User]

different firms handle it differently, reach out to HR after you got an offer

[Anonymous User]

I know someone who worked for a V10 firm, had visa issues, and they moved him to an international office where he could get work authorization.

[Anonymous User]

I know someone who worked for a V10 firm, had visa issues, and they moved him to an international office where he could get work authorization.

wow that's awesome. would you mind sharing the initials of the firm?

[Anonymous User]

Not one of the previous anons (none of whom have any business being anon btw).

My firm Paul Hastings, will send you to an international office most of the time, usually only for one more year unless you make a great impression. And even that first offer isn't guaranteed.

I think that's pretty standard, but never guaranteed (remember they give every summer an offer, but if you are someone they wish they could no offer, failing the lottery is a great excuse). I would put extra effort into my summer if I was relying on a H1B visa.

Also, seems obvious but not every firm has an international office, and even if they do it might not fit your nationality. For example, I believe the UK lets most commonwealth citizens work for a couple years under 30 or something, so if you fit that, and they have a London office, you are probably good. But you'll need a path to (quick, easy) work authorization at the international office as well.