Can I have more than one job on H-1B?

Yes, it is possible to hold more than one job while on an H-1B, but there is one essential condition: each employer must file its own petition and obtain approval from immigration authorities. This arrangement is known as concurrent employment.

The H-1B, by nature, ties the worker to the employer who sponsored the petition. That does not prevent a second employment relationship, but it does mean you cannot simply accept another job on your own: the new employer must go through the same petition process.

Each of these positions must also be consistent with the specialized nature of the visa, and the working conditions must be defined in the approved documentation. Working for a company that does not have an approved petition on your behalf may constitute a violation of the rules and put your status at risk.

• Each employer must file a separate petition (concurrent employment).
• All positions must maintain the specialized character of the visa.
• Working without an approved petition puts your status at risk.

Since this matter involves your immigration status, it is worth confirming the current requirements with the official source (USCIS) or with a specialist before taking on a second job.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.