Can H1 Holders Carry Multiple Jobs at the Same Time?
The highly sought after H1 visa was created by the United States of America as a way to allow highly skilled foreign-born workers to work in the U.S. The H1 visa is a Nonimmigrant visa and is not the same as an immigrant green card.
The question is, “Can H1 holders carry multiple jobs over the same time period?” The answer to this question is yes and no – an H1 holder may hold multiple H1 positions, however, each job must be within their field of expertise and must meet the criteria made by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Things to Consider Before Taking Multiple Jobs:
Before getting multiple jobs, there are some things to consider.
- Pay: Ensure that the compensation for both jobs adds up to the minimum wage, otherwise it could violate the terms of your H1 (or other) visa.
- Time: Understand the amount of time each job requires and balance it accordingly. If it becomes unmanageable, you may have to choose one.
- Employment Type: Check the job roles to ensure they are all valid and permissible under the H1 visa. Working outside your skill-set or job duty could invalidate the visa.
- Taxes: Be aware that income from multiple employers needs to be reported for taxes. It is your responsibility to ensure you are paying the taxes due.
Final Thoughts
The answer to the question of whether H1 visa holders can hold multiple jobs at the same time is yes (if they meet all the above criteria). Visa holders, however, must be aware of the implications that come with holding multiple jobs and must abide by all the restrictions imposed by the H1 visa.
It is also important to note that if you are considering holding multiple jobs, you should always seek professional advice first. A lawyer familiar with employment and immigration law can help you understand the rules and regulations of your visa type and offer sound advice if you are considering taking two jobs.