US work visas — H-1B, L-1, O-1 and the rest

Almost every US work visa is employer-sponsored: the job comes first and the visa is tied to it. That single fact shapes everything — including what happens if you lose the job.

Key points to understand

H-1B (specialty roles, annual lottery), L-1 (intracompany transfer), O-1 (extraordinary ability)

H-1B (specialty roles, annual lottery), L-1 (intracompany transfer), O-1 (extraordinary ability). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Your status is tied to your employer — changing jobs usually means a new petition

Your status is tied to your employer — changing jobs usually means a new petition. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

The grace period after losing a job is short; know it before you need it

The grace period after losing a job is short; know it before you need it. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.