How H1B Visa Holders Can Supplement Their Income

If you’re on an H1B visa, you may be looking for ways to earn extra income beyond the work for your authorized employer specified on your I-129 petition.

But did you know that most ways of generating additional income on an H1B visa are prohibited? Any additional sources of income outside of your H1B authorized job must be generated through permitted means. Passive income is generally allowed, but active income such as freelancing, working as an independent contractor, or managing multiple Airbnb apartments, are not permitted.

It’s important to understand the difference between passive and active income and to consult with an immigration attorney or tax professional if you have any questions about what is allowed on your H1B visa.

Here are 7 ways to earn extra income while on an H1B visa:

• Invest in the stock market or cryptocurrency as long as you don’t do this as a job and day trade professionally.
• Rent out a room in your home occasionally on Airbnb or equivalent to a tenant.
• Rent out your car when not in use on Turo.
• Be an angel investor.
• Open checking accounts for incentive bonuses if you meet certain requirements.
• Carpool through an app like Waze Carpool or Scoop to get reimbursed $0.545 per mile.

It’s important to consult with an immigration attorney before pursuing any of these options to ensure that you are not violating your visa status. But with the right approach and guidance, you can find creative ways to supplement your income while on an H1B visa.