You can be deported from the United States for many reasons. People are often most concerned with illegal activity or criminal allegations. Are they going to be deported for a simple crime like shoplifting or driving under the influence? They don’t want to make any mistakes that are going to jeopardize their future in the U.S.
With this in mind, it is important to know that you could also be deported if you lose your job. It depends on the type of visa you have and why you were given that visa initially. It also depends on your employment status moving forward.
With a work visa, employment is often a necessary component. Maybe the company that you work for sponsored your visa and gave you a specific job, and the government allowed you to enter the United States to take that job. If you get fired, this could violate your visa, and you may be deported if you’re not able to adjust your status – such as getting a different visa, getting a green card, etc.
Does this happen right away?
No, you are not going to be deported on the same day that you get fired. You typically have a grace period. The H1B employment visa gives you 60 days, for instance. For many immigrants who lose their jobs, then, it’s simply a matter of finding another applicable job in the next two months. If you can do that, then you will not be in violation of your visa at all.
You can also see how this could create a complex immigration situation. If your status is in jeopardy for any reason, be sure you know what legal options you have.