I am originally from Ireland but now living in Rhode Island. I came to the U.S. on a work visa, and my employer has started the green card process for me. My concern is about what happens if I lose my job before the green card is approved. I have heard that losing employer sponsorship could cause major problems, possibly leaving me without status or forcing me to leave the country. I also want to know if there are any grace periods, other options, or backup strategies I should consider in case my employment situation suddenly changes.

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

If you lose your job before your green card is approved, your employment-based petition may no longer be valid. However, you could have options like using a 60-day grace period to find another employer to sponsor you.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

Yes, losing your job can affect your green card process, but you may still have a chance to switch employers under AC21 portability or by finding another legal status.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

Employment-based green cards are tied to your sponsoring employer, so losing your job can interrupt your case. However, U.S. law provides a 60-day grace period that allows you to remain in status while you seek new employment or another visa option. If your I-140 petition has already been approved and your I-485 application has been pending for at least 180 days, AC21 portability may allow you to transfer your green card process to a new employer in the same or similar job field. This means your green card journey doesn’t necessarily have to end if you lose your job. Consulting with an immigration lawyer is critical to take the right steps quickly.

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