H1B visa & work restrictions

Hi all,
I have a few quick questions that I hope someone here can help me with.
(1) I have my H1B and work full-time for my employer, but if I decide to quit how long do I have to find a new job or go back home?
(2) With my H1B, is there anyway to work on the weekends/evenings/part-time in a "self employed" capacity or "independent contractor" capacity?
(3) Do I need to sponsor myself for a visa if I start my own corporation and quit my job?

Thanks, "B".

Hi all,
I have a few quick questions that I hope someone here can help me with.
(1) I have my H1B and work full-time for my employer, but if I decide to quit how long do I have to find a new job or go back home?
(2) With my H1B, is there anyway to work on the weekends/evenings/part-time in a "self employed" capacity or "independent contractor" capacity?
(3) Do I need to sponsor myself for a visa if I start my own corporation and quit my job?

Thanks, "B".

1) Technically, if you are not working, BCIS gives you no grace period to find a new job. You are expected to leave the U.S., as your admission in H-1B status is only to work, not to look for another job. You are supposed to still be employed by your current employer when you file a change of employer H-1B application. BCIS requires proof of current paystubs to show that you are still working when the H-1B change of employer application is filed.

2) H-1B workers can only work for the employer who sponsors them; they cannot be "self-employed". Self employment is unauthorized employment.

3) If you set up your own company, that company would have to apply for and receive BCIS authorization for you to work for your company. It's very difficult to do this, as BCIS requires a lot of proof that the company can pay the offered wage.

Is there any way then, at all, to earn a supplemental income? The reason is that I intend to invest in real estate - as part of a partnership and the partnership may or may not require me to do some legwork. So, does that become "personal finance" and taxed and treated as such, or treated as unauthorized employment and as such, a violation?
Thanks, "B".

You wish!

Real estate and other lucrative side kicks are for USC only. You are here on your H1B to supply the US industry will low-payed workers, like myself.

NotGuest

how does the BCIS figure out that you worked part time from other employers?can they actually find out? and what are the consequences for the H1b holder?

You might not be able to work for the partnership, but you can surely invest in it. You might want to look into setting-up a LLP or a LLC, where you are a limited partner or non-managing member.