H1B Game of Moves – What’s Allowed?

Most Indians in the U.S. are in a situation where one H1B transfer is pending, and another job opportunity arises. It brings a common question – can a second transfer be filed while the first one is still pending?

The answer is yes. Legally, Company B can file a new H1B transfer even if the transfer to Company A is still pending, as long as all documents are properly filed.

But there are risks. If you’ve already joined Company A and their transfer gets denied, your status becomes uncertain – unless Company B’s petition is already approved or you’re still working with your old employer.

Most immigration specialists advise waiting for several pay stubs at Company A before making another jump. Others think that if Company B is solid and does everything right, the risk is slim.

Back to back job switching is more prevalent today, particularly in the field of technology. But each relocation must be thought out carefully – because when a visa is involved, speculation can be more expensive than waiting.