Laid Off on a Work Visa: Emergency Strategies for H-1B Holders and Other Visas After Job Loss
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. | Jul 23, 2025 | Immigration
Losing a job is stressful enough, but for foreign professionals in Arizona on work visas, it can feel like everything is at risk. Your immigration status is directly tied to your employment, and a sudden layoff brings tough decisions.
What Is Your Grace Period?
If you are on an H-1B or O-1 visa, you have a 60-day grace period after losing your job. This period starts the day employment ends, and you must act fast. You can use this time to do any of the following:
- Find a new employer willing to sponsor you
- Switch to a different visa status
- Prepare to leave the U.S
However, you need to watch the calendar closely. If your I-94 expires sooner, that date controls your deadline. Waiting too long could lead to “unlawful presence,” which can block you from returning to the U.S. in the future.
How to Use AC21 Portability to Find a New Employer
The AC21 portability rule helps H-1B workers change employers without waiting for a new petition to be approved. As long as your new employer files a nonfrivolous H-1B petition and you have a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA), you can start working right away.
This is huge for people facing tight timelines. However, if you do not file before your current stay expires, you lose this option.
Other Visa and Self-Petition Options
If a new employer is not possible right now, you might switch to a B-2 visitor visa to buy extra time. This requires filing Form I-539 and should be done before your grace period ends.
Some highly skilled professionals might qualify to self-petition for an EB-1A green card (extraordinary ability category). This path does not need an employer sponsor, but it does demand strong evidence of achievements.
Talk to Us for a Strategy That Protects Your Future
At Coughlon Law Firm, we understand how a sudden job loss can shake your life and plans. We help Arizona professionals look at every option, from finding a new sponsor to protecting green card applications in progress. If you are worried about what comes next, call attorney Robert Coughlon at 602-636-0800. Mr. Coughlon will guide you, answer questions, and help you make the best choice for your future.
