H-1B visa, long seen as a pathway to stability for skilled immigrants in the United States, is now under intense pressure. From tighter scrutiny to rising uncertainty in the job market, many visa holders are finding themselves stuck in fear and confusion.
A recent post in a private Facebook group with over two lakh Indian member has brought this anxiety into focus. The post, written by the wife of an H-1B visa holder, shows the growing distress among families who suddenly find their future in the US hanging by a thread.
A job loss that changed everything
The woman shared that her husband was recently laid off, triggering the 60-day grace period that H-1B visa holders get to find new employment.
She wrote, “Hi my husband has been laid off from his company and his grace period will start from January 5 although he has started applying for jobs but considering the market these days for H-1B we think we should also start a back up plan for leaving US.. we have bought a house just last year(16 months back) and I am working on my EAD.”
She also asked suggestions on how to sell their house, manage bank accounts, 401k and what are the best options available to pack up and send all belongings to India. Can it be possible in two months time. Any suggestions will be appreciated.” Even while preparing for the worst, the woman tried to hold on to hope. In the same post, she added, “I personally believe that Companies will start hiring in few days… Make sure the resume is crisp and apply for jobs that match experience and will add value to the project/company. Good Luck and Best Wishes…”
H-1B visa rules in a brief
Under US immigration rules, H-1B visa holders can stay in the country during a 60-day grace period after losing a job, or until their I-94 expires, whichever comes first. If a new employer is found within this window, the employer can file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) and then submit Form I-129 to USCIS. Once approved, the visa can be transferred, or “ported,” to the new employer. This avoids the need to apply for a fresh H-1B. While the process exists, many say the current job market makes this option harder than ever.
Immigration lawyers issue travel warnings
Adding to the anxiety, well-known immigration attorneys have issued strong warnings to visa holders. Emily Neumann, a senior immigration attorney often known online as the “Immigration Girl,” posted, “Urgent Travel Warning: Non-Immigrant Visa Holders, Do Not Travel Outside the USA.” Neumann, who has over 15 years of experience in US immigration law, warned that increased scrutiny could prevent visa holders from re-entering the country if they travel abroad. Concerns are not limited to lawyers. Reports suggest that major tech companies like Apple and Google have warned some visa-holding employees against travelling outside the US, explaining the risk of being unable to return as scrutiny tightens.
Community reacts
Members of the Facebook group responded with a mix of empathy, practical advice, and blunt reality checks.One user wrote, “The market is bad for everyone and not just H1B. I have a few friends who are GC holders/citizens who lost their jobs and had to go to different states for jobs /lower salaries and their houses are vacant for months as they had to vacate to move to different cities. Stay strong and keep trying and tell your husband to accept any job that he gets anywhere for time being.”
Another added, “I personally believe that Companies will start hiring in few days… Make sure the resume is crisp and apply for jobs that match experience and will add value to the project/company,” But some responses were far more direct and pessimistic.
One member wrote, “Sorry to hear your situation. The market is bad for H1B and it will continue to be for the next 2 years. It’s better that you work on your return to India. H-1B,L-1B were never permanent residency. That’s why folks who came earlier waited until they got GC to buy homes or settle their roots. But in the last 15 years our Indians have not operated that way.”
Another added, “Have you bought a house in the US? If so, did you buy it only after you received your GC? How many years did you have to wait? He should not miss this golden opportunity and should come back to India immediately. Using his experience in foreign countries, he should utilise his knowledge in improving India. No more NRI-Desh sewa Pratham.”
Disclaimer: The content in this article is based on a viral social media discussion and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The financial figures and strategies mentioned are personal to the user and have not been independently verified. This story does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any specific investment strategy. Readers are advised to consult a SEBI-registered investment advisor before making financial decisions.