Katonah, NY Immigration Law Firms & Lawyers

Unless you are in valid immigration status and have been granted employment authorization by USCIS, you cannot work in the U.S. legally. However, you may still be able to get a driver license in certain jurisdictions that allow undocumented immigrants to get one. The rules vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so you should consult the requirements for a driver license in your place of residence before applying. Currently, undocumented immigrants can get a driver license in the following jurisdictions: California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington State. Since you are already out of status, you cannot apply for a change of status or get another non-immigrant visa while you remain in the U.S. You will need to depart the US and apply for the visa at a U.S. consulate. However, you remain eligible to apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident now or in the future, regardless of your current status, if a U.S. citizen spouse or child petitions for you. As to whether your J-1 sponsor can sue you or not for failing to return home, it will depend on the laws of your country and whether you have breached a legal duty owed to the sponsor.

There are many different types of visas that would allow someone to come to the US and work here legally.  A useful answer to your friend's question would require a comprehensive discussion of his work history and qualifications, his financial resources, and his family history (in case he has any family ties in the US) as well as his plans for the future (for example, how long would he want to stay in the US and how soon does he want to come here?)   A forum like this is not the best way to get this type of advice.