For many people, the initial path that they choose to enter the United States is a visa. For instance, students who want to study abroad can get a student visa to attend a university in the U.S. Even those who simply want to stay for a short time can get tourist visas.
But for those who are looking for work, an employment visa is often the preferred method. In some cases, employers will work with international employees to secure these visas and bring them to the United States. The condition of the visa is that they have to take that job, because the visa is only being given to them thanks to the job opportunity.
However, this creates an interesting situation where people often feel like they have to do everything in their power to maintain that job. If you get fired, you may be worried that this will invalidate your visa and then you could be deported. That could change everything for you and your family, so what do you need to know about this process? What will happen if you lose your job?
The grace period
It can be problematic to lose your job when you’re on a work visa, just as it could be an issue if a college student gets expelled from school while they are on a student visa. When your visa is connected to a certain activity, failure to engage in that activity may open up the grounds for a removal action.
However, the government isn’t going to do this immediately. You’re not going to get fired on a Friday and find the deportation process underway on Monday. Instead, they’re going to give you a grace period that lasts for 60 days. This can give you a chance to begin to seek out another employment opportunity. If you’re able to find one, then you may be able to remain in the country on your own initial work visa.
This process can get complicated and the stakes are high, so be sure you know what steps to take.
