Being fired can be incredibly overwhelming. However, when you’re only in the United States because of a work visa, this can make matters even more severe. As such, if you have been terminated from your job, you may have a considerable number of questions about what will happen. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including what will happen to your status in the country, as well as what to do if you are able to find a new employer. In addition, you’ll also discover why working with Fairfax County work visa lawyers is in your best interest during these difficult times.
Will I Be Kicked Out of the Country if I’m Fired While on a Work Visa?
In the event you are fired while on a work visa, it’s important to understand what will happen to your status as a visa holder. Generally, being terminated, whether you are fired or laid off, means you are in violation of the terms and conditions of your visa. However, as job loss can occur for several reasons, many of which are out of your control, there is typically a grace period in which you can seek new employment. If you are able to find a new employer willing to sponsor you, you’ll be able to remain in the country.
Generally, you will have 60 days to seek new employment. If you fail to secure a position within that period, you will likely be required to leave the country.
You should also understand that, in some circumstances, you may be able to seek a change of status. This means you can petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to change your status from a work visa to a visitor visa, for example, to seek additional non-immigrant status in the country so you may remain here legally for additional time.
What Do I Do if I Find a New Employer?
In the event that you find a new employer willing to sponsor your employment visa, it’s critical to understand how to proceed to ensure you remain in legal status. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to “port” your eligibility to your new employer. Essentially, so long as your employer files a new petition with USCIS before your grace period expires, you may begin working as soon as the petition is acknowledged by USCIS, so long as the job is similar to the one you held before it.
As you can see, navigating employment-based immigration matters can be incredibly difficult. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with Goel & Anderson as soon as possible. Our dedicated legal team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you through these complicated matters in the fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn more about your options.
