I have been working on my H1B for several years. In June of this year, I had to change status to H-4 because I was affected by a layoff (husband on H1B).
I have been interviewing for a job and a company interested in hiring me. However, they tell me they can't sponsor H-1B because of recent layoffs they had.
My questions are:
1. What does the law state about companies petitioning for H-1B, if they have had layoffs? (I know companies can't sponsor for green cards if they have had a layoff at the work location within the lat 6 months, but was wondering if there was a similar rule that applies for H-1B).
2. Is there any other alternative to be able to work for this company? Would I be able to process the H-1B myself? Are there any other visa categories that I would be able to apply for?