Can I change my tourist visa to a work visa in USA?

Yes, in some cases you can apply to change your status from a tourist visa (B-1/B-2) to a work visa while you are in the U.S., but it is not a simple or guaranteed process. You would need a U.S. employer willing to sponsor you for a work visa, such as an H-1B, and they must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your current tourist status expires.

If USCIS approves the change of status, you could remain in the U.S. and begin working once the work visa becomes effective. However, certain work visas have fixed application windows or caps, so timing is important. Additionally, immigration officers may question your original intent when entering on a tourist visa, as tourist visas are meant for temporary visits, not work.

If your change of status is not approved before your tourist visa expires, you would need to leave the U.S. and apply for the work visa from your home country. Consulting an immigration attorney is advisable to assess eligibility and avoid violating visa conditions.