Trump administration proposes waiving grace period for H-1B holders after job loss

The Trump administration has proposed eliminating the 60-day grace period that currently allows skilled foreign workers on H-1B and L-1 visas to remain in the United States and secure a new corporate sponsor after losing their employment. Published in a recent government online notice, the Department of Homeland Security is considering the policy change based on the rationale that the existing grace period compromises the integrity of the employment-based visa system.

If enacted, the removal of this grace period would significantly impact foreign nationals in the United States following a job loss, forcing them to leave the country immediately unless they successfully change their visa status or secure alternative sponsorship prior to termination. The proposal carries substantial implications for international workers, particularly populations heavily reliant on H-1B and L-1 visas.