US Work Visa: US B1, B2 Visa holders can apply for jobs, give interviews while visiting, USCIS shares details USCIS has announced new relief for US tourist visa holders and US business visa holders. According to the latest USCIS announcement, individuals traveling to the United States on a US B-1 visa or US B-2 visa can apply for employment and interview while in the country. Details below.
Can you apply for work in the US while traveling as a tourist? The answer is yes! United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, USCIS has announced new relief for US tourist visa holders and US business visa holders. According to the latest USCIS announcement, individuals traveling to the United States on a US B-1 visa or US B-2 visa can apply for employment and interview while in the country.
B visas – B-1 for Business and B-2 for Tourism – are the most common visas issued to foreigners when visiting the United States.
“Many people have asked if they can apply for a new job while in B-1 or B-2 status. The answer is, yes. Applying for a job and interviewing for a position are permissible B-1 or B -2 activities.” USCIS said in the tweet.
However, the Immigration Center further stated that a person who entered the United States through a B-1 visa cannot be employed in domestic work. B-2 visa holders may not be employed in ANY occupation.
#USCISAAnswers: Many people have asked if they can apply for a new job while in B-1 or B-2 status. The answer is, yes… t.co/DkWFpPkVGm
— ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2023
Upon employment, the foreign worker must submit an application and request for a change of status. The person is only allowed to work after the new work permit status is approved. If this change of status is denied, the applicant must leave the US and re-enter the US on a US Worker Visa (H-1B Visa).
This move by the US comes after many foreign workers were laid off by major tech companies and are now looking for their next job before the grace period expires.
The current grace period given to those who are laid off is 60 days. However, a presidential advisory panel recommended a grace period of 180 days.
