Glossary · Visa classifications
B-2 (Visitor)
Tourist/visitor classification. Allows up to 6-month stay for genuine non-employment purposes.
Filed via I-539 if changing from H-1B inside the US. CRITICAL: USCIS has been DENYING B-2 changes filed for job-search purposes since March 2023, and since February 2025 a denial inside the grace period can trigger an NTA. Use B-2 ONLY if your reason is genuinely non-employment (medical, family event, immigration adjudication for a spouse). Don't write 'looking for a new H-1B sponsor' on the cover letter.
Related terms
I-539 (Change/Extend Nonimmigrant Status)
The form you file to change from H-1B to H-4, F-1, B-2, or to extend nonimmigrant status without leaving the US.
60-day grace period
8 CFR 214.1(l)(2): up to 60 days (or until I-94 expiry, whichever sooner) after your last day worked to file a transfer, change of status, or depart.
NTA (Notice to Appear)
The document that initiates removal proceedings in immigration court.
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