Transfer/Change Employer
Portability is the official term used by USCIS when an employee already holds H-1B status and “transfers” their H-1B status from one employer to another. In order for the employee to begin working for a new employer, that employer must file an entirely new H-1B petition. This must be done prior to the expiration of the first H-1B and prior to the first employment being terminated. According to immigration regulations, an employee may begin working as soon as the new employer files the H-1B petition with the USCIS – to begin working under this provision, the employee will need the H-1B receipt notice from the new H-1B filing for employment verification purposes. It is not necessary to wait for the petition to be approved for employment to begin.
Employees and departments should consult closely with OISS about the timing of moving to Washington State University and about any travel outside of the U.S. during this period .
Page Updated: April 2, 2008