H1B and status?

Question

Hi,

I am on H1B which is good for another few years. This morning I got laid off because of the company's bad financial position. My employer said he's going to call the attorney about my thing. I don't know what will happen to my visa status.

My employer didn't let me know in advance and it was a shcok this morning when they said today is going to be my last day.

I am looking for different opportunities and close to getting interviews.

My question is how long I can be here in the US legally after this.

Is there a buffer time or something that the INS gives H1B holders to change jobs once they get laid off?

This is very important to me. If someone gives me some useful answer, I will be grateful.

Thanks,

Answer 1

i know of someone who got her h1b in october '07, but quit the job one month (November '07) after getting that h1b b/c she found a better job. the job already told her that they would apply for a new h1b.... the day she quit, she contacted her lawyer who started the new h1b process. but the lawyer warned her that technically she was illegal and not to work until they get the status of the 2nd h1b... she was unemployed for about 1 month until the 2nd h1b was approved in December '07...she's doing well today... please please find a job now that would sponsor your h1b..now let me tell you that if your new h1b gets approved, the time frame remains the same as if you got your 1st h1b (3 years with 3 years renewal)...good luck!  i hope you find a new job soon b/c i know how stressful this is.....

Answer 2

http://www.murthy.com/h1bstvi.html