I transitioned recently, and one thing I’d suggest is to be proactive about your work authorization. Make sure your company understands the process and is committed to sponsoring you. Not all employers are familiar with visa transitions, so sometimes you need to nudge them along or educate them on how it works

For me, the biggest challenge wasn’t the paperwork—it was the uncertainty of whether my H-1B application would get selected in the lottery. I applied multiple times before finally getting through. So my advice? Keep a backup plan in mind, whether it’s pursuing further studies or looking at opportunities in other countries

One tip I’d give is to stay on top of deadlines and filing requirements. I’ve seen people struggle because they didn’t file their H-1B petitions on time or didn’t understand the cap lottery system. It’s worth consulting an immigration lawyer if you’re confused about any part of the process

I went through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) route before transitioning to a work visa. During OPT, I made sure to prove my skills at the company, and they eventually offered to sponsor me. It’s definitely a stressful period, but keeping communication open with your employer is super important. If they know your situation and see your value, they’re more likely to support your visa transition