"is it anyway possible for me to get H1-B status in some other way? are there any employment agencies who 'just' sponsor the H1-B (without giving you the job) for a fee?" Yes... there are so many employment agencies that do this kind of stuffs. But this is illegal and risky. It is illegal because according to INS Rule you should work for only that company who sponsors your H1b. you must have to reapply for new a H1B visa if you change the job. even promotion or change of job duties with in the same company requires amendment notice to INS. L1 is another visa that allows you to legally work in USA.