H1 to B1 question in 2026

USA H1B
1

Hi, I suspect a layoff on Feb 9th. IF it happens I’m looking for options to legal stay as i have additional interviews in progress. Current approved New extension H1b ends in Feb 2029

  1. Once my 60 day period starts- if I convert to b1/b2 via change of status, will I encounter problems due to i94 expiry?

  2. Is my understanding correct- my I94 is until Feb 2029 based on my new extension?

  3. when I finally do a transfer of visa from B1 to H1- will I need any additional processing like go to India etc? like consular or should this be smooth?

  4. If on B1 and 2 companies are filing H1- can that happen?

  5. If I find a job in 60 days and my transfer is currently pending- can a New employer file for a H1 transfer again?

  6. On grace period of my h1 transfer after grace period can I choose not to work on receipt and wait for approval to work?

2
  1. Normally, yes, people do convert to B1/b2 visa if they are not able to find any new H1B sponsor within 60 days of layoff. But, it is at the discretion of USCIS to approve B1/B2. They may or may not approve it.
  2. Once the H1b 60 day grace period is over, the H1B i94 should not be used as per the policy.
  3. Going to India for visa stamping would be needed only if the H1b is filed with ‘consular processing’ or if the USCIS does not approve it with a new H1b i94. Otherwise, there is no need to travel.
  4. Yes, multiple H1b can be filed if you have multiple sponsors available.
  5. Yes, multiple H1b can be filed at the same time if you have multiple job offers.
  6. No, you should start working on h1b and run payroll to maintain h1B status after 60 days are over. If you get receipt but do not run payroll, then, it is considered a violation.
3

After grace period, if I’m working on H1 receipt notice say contract based role, and another employer files for my H1(say fulltime) and if that is approved can I move to Fulltime? what are the watchouts?
And Can the same situation happen if im on B1 still under process. ie- B1 still under process- H1 petition filed- I get receipt number- move there- withdraw b1. right?