How to Change an Employer Work Permit

Employer work permits need to be updated in the United States if you change employer.

Some people will need employer work permits to work in the United States. These individuals can be students or contract workers who have stayed in the country to study or work but need to change their work permit because of change in employer. For example, a student who has been in the United States on a student visa will need an employer to step in and request that the student stay in the country to work for a particular company. In this case, the student can apply for a work permit. Should the student want to change employer, a new employer work permit would be needed.

Things You'll Need

• U.S. visas issued to you
• U.S. work permit issued to you
• Valid passport
• I-94 U.S. entry form

Instructions

1. Obtain a H1-B visa form from the office of Citizenship and Immigration services. Do this before April 1 of each year, as this is the annual deadline for employer work permit applications.

2. Fill out the H1-B visa form with the correct information. Do this well in advance of your current employer work permit expiration date, as you must have a legal working permit status during the application process. The application process can take up to 20 weeks.

3. Attach any relevant documents to your H1-B application. This includes current employer work permit, new employer information, U.S. visa, copy of current passport, professional credential of your profession such as diplomas or certifications and I-94 U.S. entry cards. If you are concerned about the proper documentation, hire an immigration lawyer who can help you through the application process.

4. Check your mailbox frequently for any letters or inquiries from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office. If something is missing from your application, you will be notified by mail. Make sure you respond promptly if this is the case, so your application is not delayed.

5. Check your mailbox for your application reply. If you are approved, the new employer work permit will be activated in October of the application year. If you are rejected, contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office to hear why the application was denied.

References

• US Citizenship and Immigration Services: Adjustment of Status
• National Immigration Services: An H-1B Brochure for your Boss