F1 to H1 without OPT

[rajaijah]

I am currently on F1 visa finishing up my PhD. I am starting a job on Aug 16th as a lecturer in a state university. I wanted to (and going to ) apply for OPT. Looking at the processing time I think it is highly possible that I wont have my OPT by employment start date. since its a teaching position there is no flexibility in start date.

My employer will be processing H1 for me anyways. Can they process me right now with start date of Aug 16 in which case I wont need OPT.

I just don't know whether someone can go from F1 to H1 right away without OPT. If possible how soon can my employer start the H1 process and how long does it take to get approved.

Thanks a bunch.

 

[desiboy100]

It is my understanding that since you are taking a position as lecturer in a University, you are first of all exempt from the H1 cap, and secondly, you don't need OPT.

Just make sure that your school has applied for H1 through premium processing at least 4 weeks before your start date, and if all your paperwork is in order, you would be ready to go.

the only thing I am not sure about is what is your status going to be between the F1 to H1 transition. I would recommend your maintaining your F1 status through the summer.

I am currently on F1 visa finishing up my PhD. I am starting a job on Aug 16th as a lecturer in a state university. I wanted to (and going to ) apply for OPT. Looking at the processing time I think it is highly possible that I wont have my OPT by employment start date. since its a teaching position there is no flexibility in start date.

My employer will be processing H1 for me anyways. Can they process me right now with start date of Aug 16 in which case I wont need OPT.

I just don't know whether someone can go from F1 to H1 right away without OPT. If possible how soon can my employer start the H1 process and how long does it take to get approved.

Thanks a bunch.