Can I change employer? Please advise!

[Grn-crd]

Here is my details:

I'm on yearly H1B extension (11th yr) based on GC process. My LC & I-140 got approved and waiting to file I485 (with priority date June 2002 EB3-I).

My questions are:

1) Can I switch employer & KEEP the priority date the same priority date (june 2002)? (Reason for changing employer: Possible job-cut.)

2) Or I can only port the priority date to the new employer, only after completion of 180 days filing I-485 with the current employer?

3) Can new employer be able to sponsor H1B extension based on my approved LC & I-140? (from previous employer).

Any suggestions/thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[fromnaija]

As far as I know, the only thing you get to keep without 485 filing is your priority date. If you change job now your new employer will have to start your GC process from labor filing. Then when you file new 140 you can claim your old priority date at that time.

If at the time of applying for H1 extension the old employer has not withdrawn your I-140, yes the new employer can get an extension based on the approved 140.

 

[Grn-crd]

Thanks for reply. Probably I don't want to go thru all these GC hasseles with another employer rather I may prefer to settle in India with my 11 yr earnings and find a good job position (Market is doing better there). Any how thanks for the reply!

 

[rchandran_19]

hmmm...