F1/Practical Training to H1B

[aresurrection09]

Is there a rule that restricts the time when one can apply for H1B if you're on Practical Training (PT). I came on my F1 & am working now on my PT. My company says they cannot apply for H1B until 4 months of expiration of my PT. Eg. If PT expires in June, application will be filed only in Feb.
And these days, how long does it take for H1B to be approved.
Also can i continue to work on expiration of my PT.
Thanx.

 

[Raj1994]

Thats not quite true. Four months is relevant for a different reason: The employer cannot file for a H1 until 4 months before the intended starting date of the job. However your start date does not have to be the same as the end date of your OPT. A comapny can directly process your H1 after graduation, without even requiring you to take OPT. But your compnay really decides when to start the process.

After your OPT expires, you cannot work until your H1 is approved (not just submitted to the INS).

How long it takes depends on the service center. See I-129 processing time on the main page.