u/FloopyScientist

I (F34) have a PhD from a big school and Chen is filing my EB1A (After filing the EB2 NIW). I am from India. I am currently on my F1-OPT (STEM Extension) until May 2028. My husband is on an H1B through his company. We are on separate visas. I have started the process with Chen. Our plan is to switch to a J or H after my STEM extension ends. I would prefer an H because my institution has done it before for staff scientists (so I would get 'promoted'). However, they push for a J as much as they can, but I think with the I140 it is better that I am on an H. My question: worst case, if I have to get a J visa, would I not be able to travel outside of US? would the I140 make them reject my J? I would ideally not want to be in a situation where there is an emergency at home and I can't travel. Of course, sometimes those situations are unavoidable, but I'm just trying to understand what our options are.