H1B visa stamp question

[JasonH]

My H1B extension just got approved but i need to travel abroad in 10 days for an important event and haven't got the new H1B package. My old visa stamp has expired so I need to get a new visa stamp while I am abroad.

My question is if I didn't receive the new I-797 before I leave US, can I use my old I-797 to apply for visa stamp. My old I-797 is expiring a month from now.

Thanks

[shervin143]

You can, but not advisable. You should receive the approval notice within 2 weeks. Get everything else from the employer before you leave. The employer can FedEx or email you the copy of the approval notice once they receive it, so you can schedule the visa interview.