What happens if my H-1B employer fires me?
H-1B Visa
January 03, 2026
613 views
Answer
📋 Summary:
If your H-1B employer terminates you, you have a 60-day grace period to find a new employer, change status, or leave the U.S. Your H-1B status ends when employment ends, but you have time to transition.
If your H-1B employer terminates you, here's what happens:
- 60-day grace period: You have 60 days to find new employer, change status, or leave U.S.
- H-1B status ends: Your H-1B status is tied to your employer - when job ends, status ends
- Find new employer: New employer must file H-1B transfer before grace period ends
- Change status: Can change to B1/B2, F-1, or other status if eligible
Additional Information:
- Grace period starts from last day of employment
- You cannot work during grace period (unless new H-1B is filed)
- If new employer files H-1B transfer, you can start working once petition is filed
- If you can't find new employer, you must leave U.S. before grace period ends
- Keep all termination documents and employment records
💡 In Other Words:
Losing your H-1B job is like losing your apartment lease - you have a grace period (60 days) to find a new place (employer) or move out (leave U.S.). During this time, you're still legally in the country, but you can't work unless a new employer files for you. It's stressful, but you have time to figure things out.
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