Please HELP-J1 & possible change of employer?

[asophieadam]

Hello,

I am currently doing an internship in a very small company which is undergoing very serious financial difficulties. Several employees have been laid off and the doors of the company could eventually close if the situation does not improve fast. I have a J1 visa, category trainee. I know that you are not supposed to change of company with a J1. But I have heard that it may be possible to change of employer in very special situations.
What can I do in my case? Change of employer before they have to lay me off. Wait until the company closes the doors if it has to happen, forget about my J1 and go back home (that would be very sad)?
If I am able to change of employer, could I extend my J1 at the same time?

Thank you very much for your help

[gdp]

J1 Trainee...Similar problem

Hi..

I am on a J1 in the US for the last 3 months, and have exactly the same problem. I would really appreciate any suggestions regarding the same...specifically regarding to:

1. Can I change to another company on the same J1 trainee visa, if I manage to find a position?

2. Can I shift to an University, under the same visa, and/or can I change status from J1 trainee to J1 research Scholar then? And what do I need to do for the same? Can I do it from the US, or do I have to go back to India and come on another visa? If yes, is there any time limit for the same? (I was told i can do it within 6 months only??)

3. I am on a 18-month visa? Should i start my waiver process too? What is the ease of conversion from a J1 to an H1, and the potential problems for the same.

Inputs/Suggestions will be really appreciated! Thanks a lot!!