Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Laid-off H-1B Workers Face Deportation Despite Grace Period
Some people with H-1B visas lost their jobs and have a 60-day grace period to find a new one.
During this time, they are allowed to stay in the US.
However, some of these people are getting a notice from the government that could lead to them being deported, even though their grace period hasn't ended.
Lawyers are concerned because this goes against what the government said they would do, creating confusion for visa holders.
The government has issued many of these notices recently.
Laid-off H-1B visa holders are receiving Notices to Appear (NTAs) from Homeland Security.
Recipients claim to be within their 60-day grace period, challenging USCIS practices.
An NTA initiates deportation proceedings, contradicting USCIS guidance.
Immigration lawyers are expressing concern over the issuance of NTAs.
More than 1,800 NTAs have been issued after screening since February 2025.
- Who
- Laid-off H-1B visa holders and the Department of Homeland Security.
- What
- H-1B visa holders are receiving Notices to Appear despite being in their 60-day grace period.
- When
- Recent reports reveal the issuance of NTAs, with over 1,800 issued since February 2025.
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Unclear; possibly a change in enforcement or a misunderstanding of USCIS guidance.
Visa Holders
USCIS
Status of Legal Stay
Visa Holders
They are within the grace period and should not be facing deportation.
USCIS
USCIS is issuing NTAs that begin deportation process.
- NTA
- Notice to Appear
- H-1B Grace Period
- 60 days after job loss
- NTA Purpose
- Initiates deportation proceedings
- USCIS Policy
- NTAs should not be issued to those with pending applications
- Number of NTAs Issued Since Feb 2025
- Over 1,800