Laid-off Indian on OPT weighs H-4 visa switch, ‘return home’, says internet

[Hitman]

Recently laid off and with just a month left on his Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa, the man faces a rapidly closing window to remain in the U.S. legally. Complicating matters, he and his partner — an H1B visa holder — have been together for three years and were planning to get married later this year or early next.

A young man on the brink of losing his legal status in the United States has taken to an online forum to share a deeply personal and increasingly common dilemma, one that intersects immigration, employment, and a long-term relationship. Recently laid off and with just a month left on his Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa, the man faces a rapidly closing window to remain in the U.S. legally. Complicating matters, he and his partner, an H1B visa holder, have been together for three years and were planning to get married later this year or early next.

Now, those plans may need to be fast-tracked. His partner has proposed that they marry immediately so he can switch to an H4 dependent visa, which would allow him to legally stay in the U.S. but not work until a future work permit (EAD) is granted. That process could take up to two years — a daunting prospect for someone with five years of professional experience across two countries. “We haven’t met each other’s families yet,” he shared. “But we love each other, and we were planning to visit home soon to make that happen.”

Adding another layer, both families live in the same state back in Asia, a coincidence that has only strengthened their bond. Still, the prospect of prolonged unemployment, even in the name of love, raises tough questions. His partner has pointed out that being married and filing taxes jointly in the U.S. could save them more than he would earn working abroad. But he is not convinced money should be the deciding factor. “I really enjoy working,” he said. “If I go back home, I could work and maybe start a YouTube channel to help others like me.”