If your work visa depends on your employer, the end of that job may also affect your immigration status. You are probably wondering how long you can remain in the United States and what you have to do before you can work again.
You may still have some time to review your options instead of leaving the country right away. The amount of time available often depends on your visa type and when your authorized stay ends.
Your job may support your immigration status
For many temporary work visas, your employer files the petition that lets you work for that company. If the job ends, your permission to work under that petition usually ends too.
That does not automatically let you start working for another employer. A new employer may have to file its own petition before you begin the new job. The rule could differ based on the type of work visa you hold.
You may have a limited grace period
Federal rules let U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services grant certain workers a grace period of up to 60 days after their employment ends. That time ends sooner if your authorized stay expires first. The agency may also shorten or deny the extension.
The extension itself does not give you permission to work. During that time, your new employer could file a petition if you qualify. A different immigration status might also let you remain in the United States legally.
Check your status before making plans
It may help to gather the papers that show your current status and when your job ended. You could also check how long you are authorized to remain in the country before deciding what to do next. Reviewing your work-related immigration options early might help you understand what choices remain.