Most folks assume that once the H1B gets the green light, the hard part is behind them. But for some, the real struggle kicks in months later when an unexpected letter from USCIS shows up, threatening to pull the rug out from under them.
A contractor working at a leading automotive company in the U.S. who’s had a valid H1B since September 2023. Fast forward to February 2025, and a USCIS officer makes a surprise visit to the worksite—one of those unannounced checks that usually wrap up without a hitch.
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But this time, things took a turn. Just a few weeks ago, a letter arrived with the ominous title “Intent to Revoke.” It claimed that the required work experience didn’t align with what the job actually called for.
What happened was during the officer’s field verification, an HR representative at the client company casually mentioned that the role required “5 years of experience.” The catch was that the requirement wasn’t included in the petition, and now USCIS is convinced there’s a discrepancy.
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Both the lawyer and the contracting employer were taken aback. They argue that the HR rep didn’t fully grasp how contractors are hired or what qualifications the staffing agency had actually listed.
Now, they’re in a race against time with a 33-day window—until June 9—to mount a defense. They’re gearing up to provide evidence that the candidate does meet the experience criteria: 4.5 years abroad, a U.S. master’s degree, and a year of U.S. work before landing this job.
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Scenarios like this highlight just how precarious visa status can feel, even after navigating the toughest hurdles—the lottery and approval. One miscommunication, one offhand comment during a visit, can throw everything into disarray.
People who have built stable lives, work diligently, and contribute to the economy still find themselves on edge, trying to prove their worth. It’s not always about clear-cut rules—sometimes it hinges on interpretation and how effectively the legal team can respond.
The hope is that reason will win out. That the documentation, timelines, and the true work history will carry more weight than casual remarks from someone not directly involved in the hiring process.
When your whole life hinges on visas, just one line in a report can feel like a serious crack in your foundation. But there’s always that glimmer of hope—a moment to stand strong, respond clearly, and hold on tight.
