Relief to H-1B Visa holders who became victims of layoffs, got extension to stay in America for 6 more months

According to the rules, an H-1B Visa holder who is laid off in the US has 60 days to find new employment in the US during his grace period. In the meantime, though, they have the option to change the status of their H1 visa to a different B-1 or B-2 visa if they are unsuccessful. Thus, if they obtain a B-1 or B-2 traveler/tourist visa, they are able to extend their stay in the US for an extra six months. H1-B professionals who have been laid off can extend their stay in the country for an additional six months following the grace period, according to a clarification released by USCIS.

In addition, the F-1 visa, also known as a student visa, is an option for them. Through this also they can stay in America for a relatively longer period and look for another job. The Immigration Department has informed that when the visa application is received from the new employer, the visa application of the concerned professional is processed on a priority basis.

It is noteworthy that, amidst the recent round of layoffs in tech companies in America, many H-1B visa-holding professionals have also become its victims. There are many Indians who are affected by the layoffs in renowned companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Tesla, and Walmart. In such a situation, these workers face the challenge of leaving America immediately and they do not get enough opportunity to stay in America and find another job.