I am in the U.S. on H1B working for a U.S. employer. Can I also work as a contractor for a company located in Europe?

Answer

H1B only provides work authorization to work for the H1B employer. Although the regulations regarding unauthorized employment are not entirely clear, it seems likely that a foreign national would require specific work authorization to perform work for a foreign entity while in the United States in H1B status. Working for the foreign entity without valid work authorization generally would be viewed as unauthorized employment and a violation of H1B status. (10.Mar.2026)

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