Hello,

I recently accepted a postdoc position at ETH. I will be finishing my PhD this June. I was told by HR that they would start the visa process after my PhD is conferred and that it would then take about 8 weeks. I am American.

This would mean that I wouldn't get to move until the start of September. I would prefer to start in July, and the professor who hired me would also prefer me to come as soon as possible.

My question is what others' experiences have been with getting a visa as a postdoc? Were you able to get the process started before completing your PhD? I would appreciate having a bit more information when I follow up with HR.

If it's relevant, I have already defended, and I am spending the next few months incorporating changes and comments from my advisors.

Thanks!