I worked for a consulting firm on an OPT from Jan- Dec 2008. However, since I did not get selected in the 2008 H1 lottery I could not continue working when my OPT expired in December 2008. I joined a second masters in Jan 09 and I have been on F1 status since then. The same employer filed for an H1 again on April 1st, 2009 and the H1B petition was approved. I was scheduled to commence work on an H1 visa from October 1, 2009 onwards.
Last week I heard that I have been laid off. I have a couple of questions regarding my visa status:
1) Will my H1 take effect on October 1st, 2009 if I do not have an employer. If yes, what can I do to prevent this from happening so I can stay on my F1 visa status and continue school.
2) If my H1 does not take into effect and I am on F1 status - what happens if i get a job in February or March 2010 next year? (Assuming I have no OPT/CPT). What is the procedure for me to get back on H1? Do I have to go back on lottery and file for a new H1 petition? Also if yes, would I be able to start work again only on October 1, 2010.
I appreciate all the help I can get with this!
Thanks!!
Last week I heard that I have been laid off. I have a couple of questions regarding my visa status:
1) Will my H1 take effect on October 1st, 2009 if I do not have an employer. If yes, what can I do to prevent this from happening so I can stay on my F1 visa status and continue school.
2) If my H1 does not take into effect and I am on F1 status - what happens if i get a job in February or March 2010 next year? (Assuming I have no OPT/CPT). What is the procedure for me to get back on H1? Do I have to go back on lottery and file for a new H1 petition? Also if yes, would I be able to start work again only on October 1, 2010.
I appreciate all the help I can get with this!
Thanks!!