I’m from Russia and have been living in South Carolina for about six months on an H-1B work visa. My employer recently told me they might have to let some staff go due to budget cuts, and I’m worried I could lose my job. I’ve heard there is a grace period after losing H-1B employment, but I’m not sure how long it is or what I can do during that time. If I can’t find another employer to sponsor me right away, are there other visa options I could switch to so I can legally stay in the US while looking for work?

Question

Aisulu Nurpeisova · Accepted Answer

If you lose your H-1B job, you have a 60-day grace period to either find another sponsor or change status. Use that time wisely.

Zubair Qureshi · Answer

You could explore switching to a visitor visa or dependent visa if you qualify.

Sibongile Mthembu · Answer

The 60-day grace period starts from your last day of employment, not from when your visa expires. During this time, you can apply for a transfer to another employer, file a change of status to a different visa category, or even prepare to leave the US to avoid being out of status. If you choose to switch to a visitor visa, remember that you cannot work on it. Acting quickly is critical because USCIS must receive your application before the grace period ends.

Alevtina Zhdanova

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