I’ve been living in New York for the past two years, but I’m originally from Sri Lanka. I’m thinking about moving to Arizona next month for a new job opportunity, and I’m not sure how that might affect my immigration status. I’m currently on an H-1B visa, and my new job would be in the same field but with a different employer. Do I need to file anything with USCIS before moving, or can I just start the new position after relocating? I really don’t want to risk violating my visa terms.

Question

Zubair Qureshi · Accepted Answer

If you’re changing employers, your new company must file an H-1B transfer petition before you start working in Arizona. You can begin your new job once USCIS receives the petition, not necessarily after it’s approved. Be sure to keep documentation showing the filing date for your records.

Sibongile Mthembu · Answer

You’ll need your new employer to file an H-1B transfer petition with USCIS before you begin the job in Arizona.

Kazuo Tanaka · Answer

Relocating under the same employer usually only requires a worksite update on your Labor Condition Application. But since you’re changing employers, a transfer petition is mandatory. Make sure the new employer files everything properly before your start date to maintain continuous legal status.

Lily Makorre · Answer

you have to file a transfer form with USCIS before you start the new job.

Chandima Karunaratne

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