Can I withdraw from the H-1B after it has been approved?

Yes, it is possible to withdraw from the H-1B even after approval. The visa authorizes work in the United States under a sponsoring employer, but it does not require you to accept or remain in the position, so declining or abandoning the offer is a decision that remains yours.

In practice, the consequences depend on the stage you are at:

• If you have not yet started working, the process is generally more straightforward: you simply formalize your intent, and the employer notifies USCIS to withdraw the petition.
• If you have already started working or have already entered the United States on the H-1B, leaving the job may have effects on your immigration status.

For this reason, weigh the decision carefully before withdrawing, especially if you plan to remain in the country or change status in the future. Each situation has its own particulars, so seeking guidance from a trusted professional and being cautious of promises of quick fixes will help you decide with confidence.

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.