Plan B: Vías alternativas de empleo en EE.UU. para estudiantes internacionales F-1 que no consiguen visa en lotería del H-1B

Flavia Santos • September 28, 2023

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Los estudiantes internacionales con visados F-1 que no han sido seleccionados en la lotería del H-1B se enfrentan a una situación difícil, pero todavía hay opciones alternativas de inmigración disponibles. Estas opciones pueden requerir más esfuerzo y planificación, pero en última instancia pueden conducir a la misma meta de obtener una visa de trabajo en los Estados Unidos.

Evalúe el tiempo que le queda

Es imperativo que las personas que actualmente participan en el programa de Formación Práctica Opcional (OPT) evalúen el tiempo restante antes de su vencimiento. La fecha de expiración del OPT puede afectar significativamente la elegibilidad de uno para continuar residiendo en los Estados Unidos, particularmente si tienen la intención de registrarse para la lotería de visas H-1B en 2024. Por ejemplo, en caso de ser seleccionado en la lotería y de que el OPT expire el 1 de abril de 2024 o después, la persona tendría derecho a la prórroga H-1B Cap-Gap, lo que le permitiría continuar con su estatus OPT hasta que el visado H-1B se haga efectivo. Sin embargo, si el periodo de validez del OPT expira antes del 1 de abril de 2024, la persona deberá abandonar los EE.UU. en un plazo de 60 días tras la fecha de expiración del OPT. La siguiente tabla ilustra este escenario.

Prepárese para la temporada de regreso a clases

Para los estudiantes que buscan oportunidades de empleo en Estados Unidos, matricularse en un programa académico que ofrezca Formación Práctica Curricular (CPT) de primer día es otra opción viable. Esto permitiría a los estudiantes empezar a trabajar inmediatamente, incluso mientras continúan sus estudios. Además, los estudiantes que ya han conseguido una oferta de trabajo pueden trabajar en CPT mientras esperan el resultado de su petición H-1B en el límite anual. Para aprovechar al máximo este período ampliado, sería prudente inscribirse en la lotería del tope H-1B antes de que expire el período OPT.

Considere el visado L-1 si trabaja para una multinacional

Como opción viable para los profesionales que buscan un empleo a largo plazo en Estados Unidos, trabajar para una multinacional en el extranjero durante un año seguido de un traslado dentro de la empresa mediante un visado L-1 puede ofrecer numerosas ventajas estratégicas. El visado L-1, diseñado específicamente para este tipo de traslados, permite a los empleados de empresas multinacionales trasladarse a una filial, subsidiaria o matriz estadounidense. El visado L-1 se caracteriza por ser un visado de doble propósito que permite la flexibilidad de buscar tanto oportunidades de trabajo y estudio temporales en el país, como la residencia a largo plazo. También tiene un periodo de validez de 5 a 7 años. Aunque esta vía requiere que la persona trabaje en el extranjero durante un año, puede resultar una valiosa solución a largo plazo para trabajar en Estados Unidos.

Visado TN para ciudadanos canadienses y mexicanos

El visado TN es una categoría de visado de no inmigrante que permite a los ciudadanos canadienses y mexicanos trabajar temporalmente en Estados Unidos en determinadas ocupaciones profesionales, enumeradas en el Acuerdo Estados Unidos-México-Canadá (USMCA). Los requisitos para obtener un visado TN incluyen una oferta de trabajo de un empleador estadounidense, un trabajo preestablecido a tiempo completo o parcial en una de las profesiones elegibles, una licenciatura o su equivalente y una prueba de cualificación profesional. El periodo de validez de un visado TN varía en función de la duración de la oferta de trabajo, pero puede expedirse por un máximo de tres años y renovarse indefinidamente.

Empresarios e inversores

Para quienes son más emprendedores, los visados E-1 y E-2, por su parte, están diseñados para personas dedicadas al comercio internacional con EE.UU. Estos visados permiten a su titular trabajar en EE.UU. al tiempo que realiza un comercio sustancial entre EE.UU. y su país de origen. Cada uno de estos visados ofrece oportunidades y requisitos únicos, y es importante consultar con un abogado de inmigración para determinar cuál es el que mejor se adapta a sus circunstancias individuales.

Solicitar un permiso de trabajo para dependientes

Para las personas casadas, las opciones de visado para cónyuges también pueden ser una alternativa viable. El Documento de Autorización de Empleo (EAD) H-4 permite a los cónyuges elegibles de titulares de visados H-1B obtener permiso para trabajar en EE.UU. siempre que el cónyuge principal tenga un I-140 aprobado. Por su parte, los visados dependientes L-2 y E-2 son opciones para los cónyuges de titulares de visados L-1 y E-2, respectivamente. A diferencia del H-4, que requiere que el cónyuge principal H-1B tenga un I-140D aprobado, los cónyuges L-2 y E-2 se consideran autorizados para trabajar y no necesitan solicitar un documento de autorización de empleo. Estos visados para cónyuges pueden suponer una importante fuente de ingresos y apoyo para la familia mientras el titular principal del visado se establece en EE.UU.

Conclusión

Es importante que los estudiantes consideren todas sus opciones y trabajen con un abogado de inmigración con experiencia para determinar el mejor curso de acción. Si bien el límite H-1B puede ser un proceso frustrante y difícil, todavía hay caminos hacia el éxito para los estudiantes internacionales. Con una planificación cuidadosa y perseverancia, los estudiantes pueden lograr sus objetivos y construir una carrera exitosa en los Estados Unidos.

Descargo de responsabilidad: Este artículo tiene únicamente fines informativos y no debe considerarse asesoramiento jurídico. Se recomienda encarecidamente buscar el asesoramiento de un abogado de inmigración antes de tomar cualquier decisión.

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Flavia Lloyd

USCIS Completes FY 2027 H-1B Cap Lottery with New Wage-Based Selection System

By Kris Quadros-Ragar • April 9, 2026

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has concluded the annual H-1B cap lottery for Fiscal Year 2027, with employers and legal representatives now able to check selection outcomes through their registration portals.

USCIS Changes H-1B Lottery to Wage-Based Selection

By Kris Quadros-Ragar • January 15, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change to the H-1B cap selection process. Under a final rule issued on December 29, 2025, USCIS will replace the long-standing random H-1B lottery with a wage-weighted selection system that favors higher-paid and more complex positions. The rule is scheduled to take effect on February 27, 2026 , just ahead of the fiscal year 2027 H-1B cap registration season, unless delayed by legal challenges. If implemented, USCIS is expected to release additional guidance explaining how employers must submit registrations under the revised process. This change marks one of the most significant reforms to the H-1B program in recent years. Up until 2025, all registrations were treated equally once the annual cap was reached. Under the new system, selection odds will be tied to wage levels based on the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data. All H-1B registrations will still be placed into a single selection pool, but registrations tied to higher wage levels will receive multiple entries into that pool, increasing their likelihood of selection. Lower wage levels will receive fewer entries, making selection less likely but not impossible. H-1B wage levels are not determined solely by salary. Each wage level reflects the complexity of the job, the level of responsibility involved, and the education and experience required . Entry-level positions involving routine duties and close supervision are generally classified at the lowest wage level, while positions requiring independent judgment, advanced skills, and significant responsibility fall into higher wage levels. The highest wage level is reserved for roles that involve expert knowledge, strategic decision-making, and substantial leadership or technical authority. USCIS is expected to closely scrutinize selected petitions to ensure that the wage level claimed during registration is supported by the job duties and salary offered in the petition. Any discrepancies between the registration and the petition may result in requests for evidence, denials, or enforcement action. With the elimination of the purely random lottery, employers should begin preparing early by carefully evaluating job descriptions, wage levels, and overall H-1B strategy. Accurate classification and thoughtful planning will be essential under this new wage-based selection system. If you are an employer considering H-1B sponsorship, or a foreign professional wondering whether your position may qualify under the new wage-based system, consulting with experienced immigration counsel is more important than ever. Santos Lloyd Law is actively advising clients on H-1B cap registrations and strategy under the new rules. To discuss your options or determine whether you may qualify, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

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USCIS Issues Updated Guidance on Public Charge Rules

By Kris Quadros-Ragar • August 27, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated policy guidance detailing how officers will evaluate "public charge" inadmissibility for individuals applying for green cards through adjustment of status. This update follows a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) final rule that rescinds the 2022 public charge regulations. The new policy takes effect on September 18, 2026 , and applies to all green card applications (Form I-485) postmarked or submitted on or after that date. Who Is Subject to the Public Charge Rule? Most family-based and employment-based green card applicants will be subject to the public charge ground of inadmissibility. This includes spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, as well as most employment visa preference categories, investors, and diversity visa applicants. Certain categories remain explicitly exempt under immigration law. These include: Asylees and refugees Victims of human trafficking (T visa) or crime (U visa) Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners Special Immigrant Juveniles Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applicants Certain military-related applicants and other designated humanitarian groups How USCIS Will Make Determinations USCIS officers will evaluate whether an applicant is likely to become a public charge by reviewing the totality of their circumstances on a case-by-case basis. Key factors include: Five Statutory Factors: Age, health, family status, assets/financial resources, and education or skills. Affidavit of Support: Submission of Form I-864 executed by a sponsor. Use of Public Benefits: USCIS will look at means-tested public benefits, such as cash assistance for income maintenance, housing assistance, food stamps (SNAP), or college financial aid. Note on timing: For benefits received before September 18, 2026, USCIS will only consider public cash assistance for income maintenance and long-term institutionalization at government expense. For benefits received on or after September 18, 2026, the broader consideration of all listed means-tested benefits will apply. Public Charge Bonds If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible solely on public charge grounds, USCIS may issue a Notice of Intent to Deny that invites the applicant to post a public charge bond using Form I-945. If an invited applicant successfully posts the required cash or surety bond, USCIS may approve the application for permanent residence. Public charge bonds can only be submitted if explicitly invited by USCIS. Santos Lloyd Law Firm will continue to monitor immigration developments closely and provide updates as further implementation details are released. For more information, please access: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-guidance-on-making-public-charge-inadmissibility-determination

DHS Drafts Proposal to Remove the 60-Day Grace Period for Select Nonimmigrant Visa Holders

By Kris Quadros-Ragar • August 20, 2026

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering a regulatory proposal that would remove the discretionary 60-day grace period currently available to certain nonimmigrant visa holders (including H-1B, L-1, TN, E, and O-1) and their dependents. The draft rule is currently undergoing interagency review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and has not yet been formally published for public feedback. What This Means Right Now Nothing changes today. The 60-day grace period remains in effect while this rule goes through the approval process. Under current rules, if your job ends early, you have up to 60 days (or until your I-94 expires) to leave the U.S., find a new sponsor, or apply to change status. What Could Change If approved, foreign workers who lose their jobs would no longer get automatic time to find a new employer or change status from within the U.S. They would generally be required to leave the country immediately. Next Steps Once the OMB finishes its initial review, the proposed rule will be published in the Federal Register, opening a public comment period of 30 to 60 days. Based on feedback received during this time, DHS may decide to alter, withdraw, or proceed with the proposal. If the government decides to finalize the rule, the entire process will likely take several months before taking effect. Santos Lloyd Law Firm will continue to monitor developments closely and will share updates on our immigration blog and social media pages as more details emerge.

5 Tips for Making Your Immigration Law Case a Success

By Joseph Lennarz • July 17, 2026

Navigating the United States immigration system can be complicated and stressful, and maximizing your chances of a successful outcome can have a huge positive impact on your personal or professional life. While hiring an experienced immigration attorney is an excellent first step toward securing a positive outcome, it is vital to remember that legal representation is fundamentally a partnership. Your attorney is your advocate, but the strength and efficiency of your case rely heavily on the preparation, collaboration, and transparency you bring to the table. To help you maximize the value of your legal counsel and build a seamless, robust application package, here are five essential tips for making your partnership with an immigration attorney a genuine success. 1. Streamlining Translated Documents: The Value of Advance Preparation Submitting an immigration petition requires an extensive paper trail of supporting evidence. This often includes vital records such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, police clearance certificates, or academic transcripts. A strict, non-negotiable rule enforced by USCIS is that any document used as supporting evidence that is written in a language other than English must be accompanied by a full and complete English translation. You can proactively save significant time and keep your legal process moving forward by arranging for these translations before sending documents to your attorney. However, you cannot simply translate them yourself or have a bilingual friend write it out. USCIS requires the translator to provide a formal, written attestation. While you don’t need to hire a professional translator, the certification must explicitly state that the translator is competent to translate from the foreign language into English and that the translation is accurate, true, and complete. Having these documents translated with proper written attestations beforehand allows your attorney to begin analyzing your evidence and compiling your packet immediately without administrative delays. 2. Understanding Legal Fees vs. USCIS Filing Fees Like any legal process, immigration law matters are expensive, and they involve two distinct types of cost- understanding these can help you to budget properly and avoid unnecessary friction or delays. When entering into a legal retainer agreement, it is crucial to recognize the operational difference between the legal fees charged by your law firm and the administrative filing fees mandated by the U.S. government: Legal Fees: These fees are paid directly to your immigration attorney for their professional expertise, time, legal labor, and ongoing representation. This covers strategy formulation, document drafting, compilation of the legal brief, and managing communications with government agencies. A good attorney will be clear about how much things will cost, at what point you will need to pay them, and why the costs may vary for certain situations (such as expediting a case to meet a deadline). USCIS Fees: These are flat filing fees established by the U.S. government to process specific immigration forms. These fees are mandatory regardless of whether you hire an attorney, and they are generally non-refundable—meaning the government keeps the money even if your application is ultimately denied. It is also important to remember that these fees will be charged to your account shortly after your case is filed, so make sure you have the requisite amount available in your account to avoid your filing being rejected due to payment failure. Review your legal contract carefully to ensure you understand how both fee types are structured. Your attorney will explicitly instruct you on how and when government fees must be paid, which typically requires separate checks, money orders, or specific credit card authorization forms made out directly to the "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." 3. Submitting Your Documents Properly When preparing documents for your attorney, ensure that they are properly scanned using a scanner or a dedicated mobile scanning app. If you must take photos of a document using a smartphone, ensure the camera is perfectly level, the lighting is bright and even, and the image displays the entire document —including all four corners, edges, and margins. Blurry, skewed, or cropped images look unprofessional and raise immediate red flags regarding document alteration. Furthermore, pay absolute attention to signature requirements. While electronic signatures are standard in commercial business, USCIS enforces strict guidelines. Most immigration forms and critical supporting affidavits require an original "wet signature"—meaning you must physically sign the paper document with an ink pen before it is submitted or scanned. Digital fonts or unapproved electronic signatures can result in your entire application package being rejected and sent back, costing you valuable time and filing priorities. 4. Transparency is Key: Providing the Full Picture Your immigration attorney’s sole objective is to protect your interests, advocate for your legal status, and help you achieve your goals. However, an attorney cannot effectively defend you against risks they do not know exist. To ensure a successful outcome, you must provide your legal counsel with a complete, completely unvarnished picture of all relevant facts—both positive and negative—from your very first consultation. Clients are occasionally hesitant to disclose past complications, such as a prior visa denial, an unauthorized period of employment, an arrest or citation, or previous marriages. Concealing these facts from your attorney is incredibly risky. The U.S. government possesses expansive domestic and international databases and will uncover this information during background checks. If your attorney is blindsided by an undisclosed adverse fact mid-process, they cannot prepare a proactive legal defense, alternative strategy, or necessary waiver in advance. Remember that your disclosures are entirely protected by attorney-client privilege; your attorney is there to solve your problems, not to judge them! 5. Managing Expectations: Why Attorneys Cannot Guarantee Outcomes One of the most foundational elements of a healthy attorney-client relationship is alignment on expectations. It is critical to understand from the outset that an immigration attorney can never guarantee a successful outcome for your case. Whether you are applying for a family-sponsored green card, an employment-based visa, asylum, or naturalization, the ultimate authority to approve or deny a petition rests entirely within the discretion of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Department of State consular officers, or immigration judges. Immigration law explicitly grants immense discretionary power to the government officials evaluating your case. An attorney’s role is to deeply analyze the law, construct a compelling legal narrative, meticulously organize your supporting evidence, and protect your rights from administrative overreach. However, because the final decision is entirely subject to agency discretion, any attorney who claims a "100% guaranteed approval" is acting unethically. Trust the counsel who gives you an honest assessment of your case's strengths and potential vulnerabilities, rather than empty promises. Conclusion: A Collaborative Approach to Success Achieving your immigration goals is a shared responsibility. Treat your application with the seriousness it deserves, work hand-in-hand with your legal counsel, and you will set yourself on the most reliable path to success. If you are ready to take action on your case and are seeking a competent, experienced, and trustworthy immigration attorney to work with you towards the outcome you are looking for, please contact us today and we will be ready to assist you.