Change of Status -L1 to H1 visa - traveling in April?
1. I'm currently in US on L1 visa
2. Shifting to H1 thru another employer this year. Visa getting filed on 2nd Apr
3. I'm traveling on 31st Mar to my native country and will not return until 10th May
4. I want to come back on L1, continue till 30th Sep and move on to H1 seamlessly 1st Oct onwards
Now my queries:
1. Is it true that traveling when a change of status (here L1 to H1) is filed and is pending will jeopardize the new visa. Will my H1 get canceled or I may even not be allowed to enter on L1 in May?
2. What is the best possible way out, other than suggesting to drop my travel plan which is quite imp? Can my employer file for my H1 now and file for CoS (I-539) only when I return?
3. Can I go to say Canada in Oct and get my H1 stamped and return
4. Or is there no real issue at all and I can travel as planned
5. Any other suggestion will be really appreciated. In dilemma
Answer:
Call the embassy about this! You really shouldn't listen to anyone else regarding this important issue. They usually can be contacted via e-mail or by phone. If you e-mail then be sure to ask the same pointed questions as well as provide your passport number and visa/case number. Rules and requirements change periodically so it is best to call directly to be 100% sure and to avoid any future problems. Best of luck and safe journey.