This is an information-only tool, not legal advice. You are responsible for your decisions. When in doubt, consult an immigration attorney.
H-1B guides
Cited, plain-English answers to the questions H-1B workers ask most after a layoff — each one anchored to the actual regulation and paired with a free tool.
Does severance extend your H-1B status after a layoff?
Severance pay does not extend your H-1B status or your 60-day grace period. Here's what your last day of employment really means, what to negotiate instead, and a free tool to map your exact timeline.
Laid off with an approved I-140: your real options
An approved I-140 that's 180+ days old protects your priority date and unlocks AC21 3-year H-1B extensions past the 6-year cap. Here's how porting, §104(c), and a Compelling Circumstances EAD actually work after a layoff.
H-4 EAD after a spouse's layoff: it no longer auto-extends
USCIS ended automatic H-4 EAD extensions on October 30, 2025. If the principal H-1B is laid off, the H-4 EAD ends when the grace period ends — unless an I-140 is approved 180+ days. Plan early with a free timeline tool.
Filing I-539 to B-2 to 'buy time' after a layoff: read this first
Filing I-539 to change to B-2 just to extend your job search is riskier than it sounds — USCIS has denied these since 2023, and a denial in the grace period can trigger an NTA. Here's when B-2 is legitimate and what's usually cleaner.
Can I travel outside the US during my 60-day grace period?
Leaving the US during your 60-day H-1B grace period generally ends it — you'd need a valid visa stamp to re-enter, which can mean a months-long consular wait. Here's what's safe, what isn't, and a free tool to see your real deadline.
Does the new $100K H-1B fee apply to my transfer or extension?
The September 2025 $100K H-1B proclamation applies only to NEW petitions for workers outside the US. Transfers, extensions, and change-of-status for workers already in the US are not affected. Here's the plain-English scope.
What if my I-94 expires before my 60-day grace period ends?
The H-1B grace period is up to 60 days OR until your I-94 expires — whichever comes first. If your I-94 has 20 days left, you have 20, not 60. Here's how to find your real deadline with a free tool.
COBRA vs. ACA marketplace after an H-1B layoff: which is cheaper?
Losing your job means losing employer health coverage. COBRA continues your exact plan but at full price; an ACA marketplace plan is often much cheaper for a short gap. Here's how to decide, plus a free cost tool.
Automatic EAD extensions ended: what the Oct 30, 2025 rule means
As of October 30, 2025, a DHS rule removed the automatic extension for EAD renewals filed on or after that date — no grace period past the printed expiration while the renewal is pending. Here's the dividing line, what still survives, and a free tool to map your dates.
How H-1B Compass sources its guidance
Every calculator and guide on H-1B Compass is anchored to primary sources — 8 CFR, the INA, USCIS Policy Manual, and State Department guidance — and dated so you can see how current it is. Here's our methodology and update policy.