Losing your job is hard. Losing it while on an H-1B visa? That can feel like walking on a tightrope with no safety net. But here’s the thing—you’re not alone. Thousands of talented professionals on H-1B visas face layoffs every year, especially in volatile industries like tech.
While it might feel overwhelming at first, this can also be an opportunity to reimagine your career path and take decisive action.
This guide walks you through what to do after an H-1B layoff. From understanding your options to utilizing resources and staying optimistic, you’ll find practical steps to move forward confidently.
The Immediate Questions After an H-1B Layoff
If your H-1B has been terminated, there may be a storm of questions running through your head, such as:
- How much time do I have to figure this out?
- Can I still stay in the U.S.?
- What are my job options?
Good news—there are answers, and knowing them is the first step toward regaining control.
1. Understand the Grace Period
Once your H-1B status is terminated, you typically have a 60-day grace period to find a solution. Think of it as a small window to make big moves. During this time, you can:
- Find a new employer willing to sponsor an H-1B transfer.
- Change your visa status (e.g., move to an F-1 student visa or a dependent visa).
- Prepare to leave the U.S. if no other options apply (this is your very last resort).
It’s crucial to put this grace period to good use—this isn’t the time to bury your head in the sand.
Job Hunting on an H-1B Visa
You don’t have to “quiet quit” your ambitions just because you’ve been laid off. Many companies are still willing to hire H-1B workers, especially for roles requiring specialized skills. Here’s how to amp up your job search strategy.
2. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Your resume is like your calling card—it should reflect your latest achievements and skills. Highlight the impact you’ve made in your previous roles. Pro tip? Tailor it to focus on skills that are currently in demand in your industry.
On LinkedIn, turn on the “Open to Work” feature. Be transparent about your visa status in your LinkedIn headline or summary. Mentioning that you are actively job-seeking can catch the attention of potential employers looking specifically for H-1B candidates.
3. Tap Into Your Network
Leaning on your professional network isn’t favoritism—it’s smart. Reach out to previous colleagues, mentors, and friends who may know of job openings or hiring managers.
Here’s a concise way to frame your message:
“Hi [Name], I hope this message finds you well. I’m currently looking for new opportunities and wanted to reach out in case your team—or someone in your network—might be hiring. I’d love to send over my resume if you think it’s relevant!”
People want to help more than you think—give them the opportunity to do so.
4. Target H-1B-Friendly Employers
Not all companies are open to H-1B sponsorship. To save precious time, focus on organizations with a history of hiring and sponsoring H-1B workers. You can find this information using platforms like MyVisaJobs or by checking an employer’s track record in the U.S. Department of Labor’s H-1B employer database.
Exploring New Career Paths
Being laid off from an H-1B position may push you to reconsider your career trajectory. It’s not uncommon to discover lucrative or even more fulfilling paths.
5. Consider Freelancing or Remote Jobs
While freelancing isn’t always compatible with H-1B status, remote jobs or international employers might fill the gap. If you’re working for a company overseas, you may also explore moving to a different visa category (like an O-1 or L-1, depending on eligibility).
If freelancing long-term excites you, this may also be the perfect chance to explore applying for a Green Card or other more flexible visa paths.
Coping with the Emotional Side of Uncertainty
Yes, pivoting is exhausting. And yes, it’s okay to feel anxious—but don’t stay stuck in that mindset. A few practical self-care steps can make a huge difference during this transitional phase.
6. Seek Support
Talk about what you’re going through. Whether it’s with family, friends, or online groups of fellow H-1B immigrants, sharing your experiences can provide emotional relief and even advice.
7. Focus on What You Can Control
Some days will feel harder than others. Break it down into actionable daily goals, like updating your LinkedIn, reaching out to three potential contacts, or rewriting a cover letter.
8. Celebrate Small Wins
Every step counts. Even things like scheduling an interview or getting a recruiter’s response are worth celebrating. Treat yourself—a coffee, a walk in the park, or an hour of decompressing with your favorite show.
Know You Have Options
Losing your H-1B job isn’t the end of your professional road—it’s just a detour. With over 300,000 H-1B visas issued each year, you’re not the first person to face this challenge, and you’re certainly not alone.
Your talent, determination, and resourcefulness remain the assets that got you here. Stay connected with your community, explore different solutions, and take action early.
Remember, a layoff doesn’t define your future. You do.
Article and permission to publish here provided by Kevan Webb. Originally written for Supply Chain Game Changer and published on April 6, 2025.
Cover image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay.