A Reddit user’s heartfelt post has been drawing attention as it reflects the difficult decisions many visa holders in the U.S. must make when employment challenges intersect with immigration timelines.
The poster, a male foreign national currently on OPT and approaching the end of his STEM extension, recently lost his job. With only a month left on his visa, he is facing a pressing decision about how to stay in the U.S. legally.
He has been in a committed relationship for over three years with his partner, who is employed in the U.S. on an H-1B visa. Although they had originally planned to marry later in the year or next, the couple is now considering moving up their wedding to allow him to apply for an H-4 dependent visa.
If they go through with this plan, he would be able to remain in the country legally, but might be out of work for a significant period—potentially up to two years—while waiting for the H-4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD). That delay is tied to the green card process his partner has begun.
His partner has noted that there could be financial benefits to this decision, particularly in terms of taxes. She believes that they might save more money as a couple if he stays in the U.S. on an H-4 visa than if he were to return to their home country to work. Despite this, he shared that he enjoys working and worries about the impact such a long employment gap might have on his career development.
He is also considering returning to his home country to work and potentially launching a YouTube channel to share his experiences and offer support to others navigating similar immigration and career challenges.
The post has resonated with many in the immigrant community, sparking thoughtful responses and advice. Some users suggested that switching to an H-4 visa could be a smart long-term move, while others warned about the emotional and professional toll that extended unemployment can bring.
