Option B Route for Immigrants Impacted by USCIS Rejections, H-1B Denials, or Visa Expiration
- Neelima Mangal
- Jan 21, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Neelima notes that she has likely experienced nearly every visa category available in the United States, including L1, L2, H1B, EAD, business visas, and more-so many that she can hardly think of any she hasn’t navigated.
"Extending my visa in the U.S. was a never-ending and stressful challenge," Neelima reflects.
My Journey from Small-Town India to North America: Navigating Visas, Challenges, and a Better Life in North America By Neelima
I often say I’ve worked on nearly every visa available in the U.S.—L1, L2, H1B, EAD, business visas—you name it. Each one came with its unique challenges, and I truly can't think of a visa type I haven't experienced.
The Constant Struggle: Life on a Visa in the U.S.
Extending my visa in the U.S. felt like an ongoing, stressful battle. As an H1B visa holder, I knew the risk: just 60 days to either find new employment or leave the country if your job ends or USCIS denies your petition. The pressure was intense, and my husband and I—despite having four years left on our H1Bs—decided to take a leap of faith. We chose to move to Canada in search of long-term security and peace of mind.
Choosing "Option B": Canada
Immigrating to Canada wasn't an easy decision. We had no family or friends there, and little initial support. But the promise of stability, high quality of life, and welcoming immigration policies drew us in. I continued to work remotely for Apple from Toronto, while my husband stayed with eBay. Our move was not just a relocation—it was a strategic and life-changing decision.
Over the years, we’ve become a source of strength and inspiration for many friends and fellow immigrants navigating similar uncertainties. We have proudly embraced "Option B"—a peaceful, fulfilling life free from the constant anxiety of visa renewals.
My Career Journey: From Atlanta to Silicon Valley
My professional path in the U.S. began in Atlanta, where I worked with AT&T through Accenture Services on an L1 visa. It was an exciting step, but soon my journey took a personal and professional turn-I got married and moved to San Francisco. There, I transitioned to an L2 EAD, and eventually to the highly sought-after H1B visa.
In Silicon Valley, I found myself surrounded by some of the brightest minds in tech. My roles at Wells Fargo and, later, Apple were both challenging and rewarding-working at Apple felt like a dream realized. The Bay Area became not just my workplace but my home, a place of growth, innovation, and endless opportunity.
However, the harsh reality of U.S. immigration soon began to overshadow the excitement. The persistent uncertainty of visa renewals, the lack of a clear path to permanent residency, and the mental toll it took on our family made us rethink our future. Ultimately, these challenges prompted us to look north-for stability and a better quality of life.
Falling in Love with Canada
Moving to Canada has been one of the best decisions we've ever made. The country welcomed us with open arms-its inclusive society, robust political environment, and consistent top rankings in quality of life were immediately evident. Toronto, with its vibrant multicultural community and the booming Toronto-Waterloo tech corridor, made us feel at home almost instantly.
Even when opportunities arose to return to Apple in California, we chose to stay in Canada. Here, we’ve found more than just professional growth-we’ve found peace of mind, a sense of belonging, and a genuine quality of life that is hard to overstate.
Reflections and Advice for Fellow Immigrants
Looking back, my journey-from a small town in India to thriving in top-tier tech companies across North America-often feels surreal. I remember yearning just to visit a big city, let alone work at a company like Apple. The road wasn’t easy; there were doubts, setbacks, and moments of fear about what the future might hold. Through it all, resilience, hope, and the unwavering support of my family kept me moving forward.
To all H1B holders and skilled professionals facing visa uncertainty: there is a path forward. Canada is a viable and highly empowering alternative. With options like Express Entry and the Global Talent Stream, many H1B visa holders already meet the educational and professional requirements to qualify for permanent residency. The process is transparent, merit-based, and designed to attract top global talent.
Smart Moves During the 60-Day Grace Period
If you lose your job in the U.S. while on an H1B visa, act quickly and strategically. Here are some practical steps:
Explore Canadian Immigration Immediately: Don’t wait until your grace period is almost over. Canada’s streamlined immigration processes-Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, Global Talent Stream-are particularly favorable for skilled workers.
Utilize Your Grace Period Wisely: Apply for new jobs, or investigate changes in your visa status. Staying proactive increases your chances of maintaining legal status.
Find a New Job Fast: Start networking, job hunting, and interviewing as soon as possible. If you secure a role, ensure your new employer files your H1B petition within the 60-day window.
Switch to H4 (Dependent Spouse Visa): If your spouse holds an H1B, you may switch to H4 status and remain in the U.S.
Consider Further Studies: An F1 student visa can be a strategic option for career transitions.
B2 Visitor Visa: While not ideal for job seekers, it could provide a short-term, legal way to remain in the U.S.
Leverage Employer Relocation Support: If terminated, your employer is legally required to cover the cost of your return travel.
Explore All Immigration Routes: Don’t overlook options such as returning home and reapplying with a new strategy.
Option B Solutions for Immigrants Impacted by USCIS Rejections, H-1B Job Losses, or Visa Expiration
Facing an unexpected visa denial, H-1B layoff, or the expiration of your U.S. status can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. However, the end of one journey does not mean the end of your global career or ambitions. Exploring “Option B” strategies can open new doors and help you regain stability and control over your future.
1. Canadian Immigration Pathways
Canada is one of the most popular and accessible destinations for skilled immigrants, especially for those with U.S. education or work experience.
Express Entry: A points-based permanent residency system for skilled workers. Most H-1B professionals already meet the language, education, and work experience requirements.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): If you have a connection to a particular province, you may qualify for a fast-tracked PR application.
Global Talent Stream: For applicants with specialized skills or STEM backgrounds, this stream offers expedited work permits.
Study Permits: Pursuing advanced education in Canada can be another route, often leading to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and eventually permanent residency.
2. Alternative U.S. Immigration Options
If you still wish to stay in the U.S., consider other immigration statuses:
Switch to a Dependent Visa (H4, L2, etc.): If your spouse holds a valid visa, you may be eligible to switch to a dependent category and remain legally in the U.S.
Student Visa (F1): Returning to school can provide time to reassess your career while maintaining U.S. status.
O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field.
B2 Visitor Visa: While this does not provide work authorization, it can allow a short-term legal stay while you explore new opportunities.
3. Other Global Destinations
The world is becoming more interconnected, and many countries are eager to attract global talent:
United Kingdom: The UK’s Global Talent Visa and Skilled Worker Visa are accessible options for experienced professionals.
Germany and Other EU Nations: Many European countries offer “Blue Card” programs for highly skilled workers, with a clear pathway to residency.
Australia and New Zealand: Both countries have points-based skilled migration programs similar to Canada.
4. Remote and Cross-Border Work Opportunities
The rise of remote work has made it possible to continue working for U.S. or global companies while living in a country that offers more stable immigration policies. Consider:
Remote employment with your current or new employer
Setting up your own business or consulting practice abroad
5. Legal and Financial Planning
Consult an Immigration Attorney: Professional advice can help uncover lesser-known options and avoid costly mistakes.
Organize Financial Documents: Ensure all pay slips, tax returns, and reference letters are ready for new visa or PR applications.
6. Emotional Well-Being
Remember, transitions can be emotionally taxing. Reach out for support from family, friends, community groups, or networks of other immigrants who have made similar moves. Your mental and emotional resilience are as important as any technical step in the transition process.
While setbacks like visa denials or job losses can feel daunting, “Option B” solutions exist. By staying proactive, researching global opportunities, and leveraging your skills, you can turn a challenging period into the start of an exciting new chapter-often with better stability, opportunity, and quality of life.
Final Thoughts: Live Life, Not Just Work
If there’s one lesson I’ve embraced, it’s this: “Live life, not just work.” Your career is important, but it shouldn’t define your entire identity or limit your dreams. Canada showed our family that it’s possible to find professional success and personal happiness at the same time.
From my small-town roots in India to Silicon Valley and now Toronto, my story is one of curiosity, courage, and perseverance. I hope it inspires young immigrants, women in STEM, and skilled professionals everywhere to dream big, stay resilient, and carve out a path uniquely their own-even if it means choosing the road less travelled.
For more information, I recommend consulting official resources such as the USCIS Immigration and the Government of Canada Immigration websites for the most up-to-date details on relevant visa categories and work permits.
About Neelima Mangal
Neelima Mangal is a distinguished technology executive, author, and advocate for women in technology. With over two decades of experience across North America - east coast, west coast, Silicon Valley - she has held leadership roles at major organizations, including Apple Inc., AT&T, Wells Fargo, Scotiabank, ADP and CoFounder of AI360Express.
She is a distinguished member of the Forbes Technology Executive Council and the MIT Sloan CIO Community. Neelima is the Founder of the Empower Women in Tech Alliance (EWTAlliance), a platform dedicated to supporting and advancing women in the tech industry. An accomplished author, her book Climb, Lead, Succeed offers actionable strategies for women's career advancement and is featured in the Forbes Executive Library.
Neelima is also the host of the podcasts Genai360 Express and The Power of Women in the World of Tech, where she discusses innovation, leadership, and inclusivity in technology. She has earned numerous recognitions, her contributions have earned her recognition as one of the Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Tech and a member of the Forbes Technology Council. Through her work, Neelima continues to inspire and empower the next generation of women leaders in technology.
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