A recent blog by an Indian IT professional in the US is subtly causing ripple. Having laid off for the seventh time in three years–this time from a leading company–he posted about how he’s coping with more than just another layoff: two personal losses, rising stress, and now, heart issues.
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He’s worked for some of the largest names—Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Capital One. But the stress? It’s finally taken its toll. Rather than diving into another stressful job, he’s opting for something else: changing from H1B to B2, to just take a break.
It’s a lesser known route that more Indians in the US are considering. When your H1B ends, the clock starts–60 days to find a new job or leave the country. The pressure is intense, especially when you’re already burnt out.
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For many, the B2 isn’t about travel or tourism. It’s about staying legally in the US for a few more months–enough time to breathe, to recover, and to find a job that doesn’t come at the cost of your health.
But switching to a B2 raises questions. Will it get approved if your H1B has never been stamped? If your passport is about to expire? And in today’s atmosphere of pro-American policy, will this not be viewed as an abuse of the system?
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The fear is genuine. But the intention here is obvious. It’s not about dodging responsibility–it’s about not jumping into yet another stressful occupation just for the sake of keeping the visa.
And perhaps it’s time we examine these stories in a new way. Behind each visa flip is an actual person attempting to keep their head above water, not merely remain hired When someone’s put in effort, established a great resume, and made a genuine contribution–they should get to catch their breath. All things don’t have to be a hustle. Occasionally, stop is the most prudent thing you can do.
