Archive · 14 Sep 2026
Ending H-1B Grace Period Could Disrupt Workers and Companies
Some foreign workers in the United States have H-1B visas.
If they lose their jobs, they currently have 60 days to find new work.
The Department of Homeland Security wants to remove that extra time.
If the proposal is approved, workers may have to leave the country after losing their jobs.
This could force families to move quickly and leave schools, homes, cars, and other belongings behind.
Companies might also find it harder and more expensive to replace these workers.
Many affected Indian professionals could return to India.
Their skills could then help Indian startups and research centers grow.
The Department of Homeland Security proposed eliminating the 60-day grace period for certain H-1B workers who lose their jobs.
The proposal was published on September 11, with public comments invited within 60 days.
Without the grace period, affected workers would have to leave the United States after losing employment.
Indian professionals could face disruption involving families, schooling, property, vehicles, and relocation.
Companies could face higher hiring costs, while India might benefit from returning skilled professionals.
- Who
- The Department of Homeland Security, H-1B workers, companies employing them, and especially Indian professionals.
- What
- The Department of Homeland Security proposed removing the 60-day grace period for certain H-1B workers who lose their jobs.
- When
- The proposal was published on September 11, with public comments requested within the following 60 days.
- Where
- The proposal concerns H-1B workers in the United States and potential returns to India.
- Why
- The proposal is part of broader immigration restrictions under the Donald Trump administration; its potential effects include faster departures, higher hiring costs, and possible reverse migration to India.
- Current grace period
- H-1B workers who lose their jobs can currently remain in the United States for up to 60 days while seeking new employment.
- Proposed change
- The Department of Homeland Security wants to eliminate the 60-day grace period.
- Comment period
- The public was invited to submit comments within 60 days of the proposal’s September 11 publication.
- Affected workers
- The proposal could significantly affect Indian professionals working in the United States on H-1B visas.
- Business impact
- Companies could face higher costs to hire workers from India or recruit professionals already in the United States.
- Potential effect on India
- Returning skilled professionals could contribute to Indian startups, deep-technology companies, and Global Capability Centres.