Can I transfer H1-B to another company?

[Sarah SOS]

Hi. I have an H1-B visa, but I was told that there will be a re-organization within the company and my position is likely to be eliminated. My understanding was that I would have to re-apply for an H1-B when I change the position whether it is within the company or not. Somebody mentioned that in some cases it is possible to transfer H1-B visas. According to him, somebody he knew transferred his H1 to a different company. He says it only took 30 days to transfer the visa. Is this a common practice? How does this work and what are the requirements? If this is something I could do, my job search will become somewhat easier. Please help!!

Sarah

 

[usdeeper]

You can transfer a H1(B) to any company as long as you continue to do the same amount of work. You, personally, do not have to do anything. It is up to the companies involved to process the paperwork.

If you look and find work elsewhere, then they will effectively have to sponsor you and transfer the H visa.. it is a lot easier to find companies when you already have the visa and already in the US..

 

[Sarah SOS]

Thanks for your reply. To verify, when you say "the same amount of work", does that refer to the type of job or the actual hours involved?
Would you also tell me exactly what steps are involved in transferring an H1-B? I understand that it is up to the employer who wants to sponsor me to do the paper work, but I would like to understand the procedure in order to convince them to sponsor me.
Thanks again.

Sarah