Securing a job offer in California is a massive achievement, but the work does not stop once you land. Staying in the state requires more than just high performance at your desk. You must also adhere to federal immigration laws to maintain your status. A small oversight can jeopardize your future in the U.S. Here are three crucial mistakes to avoid.
Accepting side hustles
While pursuing side hustles can help you get extra income, you must act according to your visa. If you hold a concurrent H-1B visa, you can work for multiple employers who filed their petitions for you.
If you only have one H-1B sponsor, understand that you can only work for your sponsoring employer, as this is the only authorized employment. Taking a second job, such as active freelancing, constitutes unauthorized employment, which can result in status termination and removal.
Ignoring material changes in your job
Receiving a promotion can be exciting. But if your job duties or primary work location change significantly, your original visa petition may no longer be valid. Your employer must file an H-1B amendment with the USCIS before the material changes occur to maintain your status.
Forgetting to report your address change
Have you moved to a different apartment to stay closer to your office? If so, you must notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about your change of address within 10 days of moving. Failing to update your address can complicate future green card applications or lead to misdemeanor charges.
Actions to take to protect your status
Staying informed is key to avoiding critical oversights. However, the nuances of immigration law can be overwhelming to handle alone. Seeking legal advice can be the support you need to navigate the strict federal regulations.