Get answers to the top 5 most-asked immigration questions on Reddit for the week of March 17, 2025:
This week, we’re tackling the following questions:
- What happens to an H-1B visa holders’ status if they’re laid off or fired from their job?
- Are ICE raids targeting specific communities or industries?
- What types of questions should I expect when crossing the U.S. border to reenter the U.S.?
- How long does it take to receive a green card after the priority date becomes current?
- Can I reapply for a green card if my previous application was denied?
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Disclaimer: While Boundless is authorized to own and operate our law firm, this response is coming from our research team, not our attorneys. The information we provide on this page is not legal advice.
#1: What happens to an H-1B visa holder’s status if they’re laid off or fired from their job?
If an H-1B visa holder is laid off or fired, they have a 60-day grace period (or until the expiration date on their Form I-94, whichever comes first) to find a new employer to sponsor their visa, apply to adjust their status, or leave the U.S. If they fail to do so, they will be considered out of status and will begin accruing unlawful presence, which can lead to future immigration penalties. If they leave within the grace period, they may seek U.S. employment while abroad and apply for readmission to the U.S. for the remaining period of their H-1B status or apply for a different type of visa.
#2: Are ICE raids targeting specific communities or industries?
ICE raids often target industries such as manufacturing, food processing, agriculture, and construction, where undocumented workers are more likely to be employed. However, ICE has recently arrested people outside of schools and churches. These raids tend to disproportionately affect communities with high immigrant populations, especially those in small towns where immigrants are working low-wage jobs. Critics argue that these enforcement actions destabilize families and local economies and may involve racial profiling, while the administration defends them as necessary for enhancing security.
#3: What types of questions should I expect when crossing the U.S. border to reenter the U.S.?
When crossing into the U.S. as a U.S. citizen, immigrant, or nonimmigrant, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may ask questions about your travel history, purpose of visit, length of stay, and visa or immigration status (if applicable). Common questions include:
- “Where do you live?”
- “Where are you traveling from?”
- “What was the purpose of your visit?”
- “Where did you stay, and for how long?”
If you are a green card holder, they might ask about your last trip abroad and whether you have maintained U.S. residency. If you are on a work, student, or travel visa, they may ask about your job, studies, or family in the U.S. It’s important to answer truthfully, provide supporting documents if needed, and remain calm and respectful during questioning.
#4: How long does it take to receive a green card after my priority date becomes current?
Once a green card applicant’s priority date becomes current on the Visa Bulletin, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a year for USCIS to process and approve their green card application. This timeline can vary depending on factors such as application type, case complexity, USCIS workload, and whether additional documentation or interviews are required. After approval, green cards are typically mailed within 30-60 days. Keeping track of processing times on the USCIS website and responding quickly to requests for evidence (RFEs) can help speed up the process.
#5: Can I reapply for a green card if my previous application was denied?
Yes, you can reapply for a green card after a denial, but the best approach depends on the reason your application was rejected. If the denial was due to missing documents or minor mistakes, you may be able to correct the issue and file a new application. If it was based on eligibility issues — such as unlawful presence, criminal history, or immigration fraud — you may need to file a waiver or explore other legal options. If you believe USCIS made an error that led to your denial, you may have the option to appeal the decision or request a motion to reopen or reconsider. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help determine the best path forward for your situation.
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