illegal in LOS without a work permit, and quite impossible as the visa sticker clearly says "employment prohibited" (even if unpaid). Their rules, not ours.
was trying to highlight how important appearances are in this neck of the woods. And yes, he can wear a French bonnet since it'll make him look more "distinguished".
Try Ajarn-dot-com or Dave's ESL Cafe website. Can also make a resume, dress like an Eglish teacher, and visit all the Schools asking to see the English dept manager. It works!
I know a Canadian who applied and waited for several *years* before he was allowed to live and legally *work* in the US. I've met many expats in LOS who simply found an employer, got a contract, Non-B visa, and work permit (with a salary to boot!). Took them but a few weeks. Hundreds of expats have done it. Really, it's easy.
I"ve entered LOS *numerous* times in the last four decades+, and have never been asked for posession of funds, visas, or onward tickets, but have seen the below notice very often as well, specially in land crossings (note the last section):
Sorry, but it is now too late and no one can help. This is the exact reason why take the time to visit an immigration office and ask the question there.
Why trust an entity who has no responsibility on your legal status? Are they going to fix it? Are they going to refund you losses or mitigate your trouble?