H1B Work Visa

What to do first

H1B process overview:

• Understand the lottery system (registration in March)
• Employer must file LCA and petition
• If selected, wait for approval
• H1B starts October 1 (or cap-exempt anytime)
• Keep all approval notices safe
• Understand your 6-year limit and extension options

Do's & Don'ts

Maintaining H1B status:

• DO: Keep copies of all LCA and approval notices
• DO: Notify employer of address changes
• DO: Start green card process early if employer willing
• DON'T: Change employers without proper transfer
• DON'T: Work on different job duties without amended petition
• DON'T: Remain in US more than 60 days after losing job

Layoff Survival

If you lose your H1B job:

• You have 60-day grace period to find new sponsor
• New employer can file transfer immediately
• You can work for new employer once transfer is filed
• Consider changing status to B1/B2 if needed
• Keep documentation of your last day
• Consult attorney immediately

Red Flags / Scams

H1B scams to avoid:

• Consultancies charging candidates for H1B filing
• Fake job offers to collect personal info
• Body shops with no real projects
• Employers asking you to work on bench without pay
• Premium processing promises for extra payment to middlemen

What to do first

H1B process overview: • Understand the lottery system (registration in March) • Employer must file LCA and petition • If selected, wait for approval • H1B starts October 1 (or cap-exempt anytime) • Keep all approval notices safe • Understand your 6-year limit and extension options

Do's & Don'ts

Maintaining H1B status: • DO: Keep copies of all LCA and approval notices • DO: Notify employer of address changes • DO: Start green card process early if employer willing • DON'T: Change employers without proper transfer • DON'T: Work on different job duties without amended petition • DON'T: Remain in US more than 60 days after losing job

Layoff Survival

If you lose your H1B job: • You have 60-day grace period to find new sponsor • New employer can file transfer immediately • You can work for new employer once transfer is filed • Consider changing status to B1/B2 if needed • Keep documentation of your last day • Consult attorney immediately

Red Flags / Scams

H1B scams to avoid: • Consultancies charging candidates for H1B filing • Fake job offers to collect personal info • Body shops with no real projects • Employers asking you to work on bench without pay • Premium processing promises for extra payment to middlemen