You Lost Your H-1B Job. Here's Exactly What to Do Next.
H1BPivot gives H-1B holders a clear, calm, step-by-step path through job loss — from understanding your grace period, to finding a new sponsor, to exploring every visa option available.
Just Laid Off? Here's Your Immediate Action Plan.
The next 72 hours matter most. Here's exactly what to do.
- 1Today
Confirm your last official employment date with HR. Get it in writing. This starts your 60-day clock.
How to confirm your grace period start date → - 2Within 48 hours
Talk to a qualified US immigration attorney. Do not make visa decisions based on online forums alone.
Book a free 15-min immigration consult → - 3This week
Start your H-1B transfer search immediately. You can transfer while still in the grace period.
Find H-1B sponsor employers → - 4Explore alternatives
If no new sponsor in time: O-1, EB-1, L-1, or starting your own business on E-2.
Explore all visa pivot options → - 5Protect your record
File I-539 or take other protective steps if your grace period is expiring.
Download grace period protection checklist →
Get Your Personalised 60-Day Action Plan in 90 Seconds.
Answer 3 questions. We send your plan to WhatsApp instantly.
More Than a Resource Site. A Roadmap.
60-Day Grace Period, Explained Clearly
Not legal jargon. Plain English. Exactly what your 60-day window means and how to use it strategically.
Cap-Exempt Employer Database
Universities, non-profits, and government research institutions exempt from the H-1B cap — faster sponsorship. We track them all.
Every Visa Pivot Option, Mapped
H-1B to O-1. H-1B to EB-1. H-1B to L-1. H-1B to E-2. We map every realistic route for your profile.
A Community Who Gets It
8,000+ H-1B holders who've been exactly where you are. Share experiences, get referrals, find sponsors.
Your H-1B Isn't the Only Path.
H-1B Transfer
Switch employers without losing status
1–3 monthsO-1 Visa
For extraordinary ability
2–4 monthsEB-1 / EB-2
Self-petition green card
6–24 monthsL-1 Visa
Multinational company transfer
1–3 monthsE-2 Investor
Start your own US business
2–4 monthsFrom People Who've Been There.
Common Questions
What is the H-1B 60-day grace period?+
When you lose your H-1B job, US immigration law gives you 60 days before your status becomes invalid. During this time you can remain in the US, search for a new sponsor, and initiate a transfer. You do not need to leave immediately.
Can I work during the grace period?+
No. You cannot legally work unless a new employer files an H-1B transfer petition. But you can interview, sign an offer letter, and initiate the transfer process.
What are cap-exempt H-1B employers?+
Universities, non-profit research organisations, and government institutions exempt from the annual H-1B cap — meaning they can sponsor at any time of year, without the lottery.
Can I switch from H-1B to O-1 visa?+
Yes, if you qualify. The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability. H1BPivot's O-1 assessment helps you evaluate whether your profile qualifies.
What happens if I can't find a sponsor in 60 days?+
You can change status to O-1, F-1, or B-2; leave and re-enter on a different visa; or explore self-sponsorship (EB-1A or E-2). Consult an attorney before your grace period expires.
Is H1BPivot a law firm?+
No. H1BPivot is an information and guidance platform — not a law firm. Content is attorney-reviewed but not legal advice.
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