H-1B Visa Transition Guide
Estimate potential grace period scenarios.
Enter the dates you know. This guide shows cautious, source-cited scenarios based on the dates you entered and flags questions to confirm with qualified immigration counsel.
Step 1 of 3
Location
You don't need every date. Enter what you know and we'll estimate possible scenarios and explain any uncertainty.
This guide is designed for people currently in the United States.
Choose the option that best matches the dates you have today.
Potential timeline
Add a date to estimate timing.
Enter an official termination date, last day worked, or payroll end date to see a cautious potential grace-period scenario.
Recommended next step
Retrieve your official I-94 record from CBP and enter the Admit Until Date before relying on any countdown.
Questions to ask
Former employer
- What is my official termination date in your records?
- Was I considered employed during any WARN period, garden leave, paid notice, or payroll continuation?
- What date will be used for final payroll, benefits, and employment verification?
- Has the H-1B petition been withdrawn, or when do you expect withdrawal to occur?
- Can you provide written confirmation of the dates above?
Prospective employer
- Can your immigration counsel confirm what my current status and timeline mean for this process?
- What exact step is the H-1B transfer or new petition in right now?
- Has Form I-129 been properly filed, and can immigration counsel confirm the filing date?
- If filed, has USCIS issued a receipt notice?
- What start date does immigration counsel consider authorized for this role?
- What documents do you need from me this week?
Document checklist
I-94 record
Download your current I-94 and confirm the Admit Until Date.
Most recent I-797 approval notice
Save your current H-1B approval notice and expiration date.
Termination or separation letter
Keep any written notice showing your official termination date.
Recent pay stubs
Save recent pay statements and final payroll information.
New employer filing evidence
Ask prospective employer counsel what filing or receipt evidence they can share.