What Happens After 6 Years on an H-1B Visa?

Discover your options after 6 years on an H-1B visa, including extensions and Green Card eligibility.

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After 6 years on an H-1B visa, you generally need to leave the U.S. unless you qualify for H-1B extension options like filing for a Permanent Residency (Green Card) or qualifying for a one-year extension under the AC21 (American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act) if certain conditions are met regarding a pending Green Card application.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the H-1B visa? The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.
  2. Can I renew my H-1B visa after 6 years? Yes, under certain conditions, you may qualify for H-1B extensions or transition to Permanent Residency.
  3. What is the AC21 Act? The AC21 allows for certain H-1B visa holders to extend their stay in the U.S. while waiting for a Green Card.
  4. How do I apply for a Green Card from an H-1B? To apply for a Green Card from an H-1B visa, typically your employer must file a labor certification and an I-140 petition.