Can I apply for H1B extension ?

[kv82]

Hello All,

I completed 3 yrs of my first H1B after which I returned to India.
My employer in India got me B1 visa (but I never travelled to US in this visa though) soon after that.
Will I be eligible for applying H1B extension (second H1B) now ?
Or the B1 visa that I obtained just after my first H1B will nullify my qualification for H1B extension ?

[raghvi]

Hello All,

I completed 3 yrs of my first H1B after which I returned to India.
My employer in India got me B1 visa (but I never travelled to US in this visa though) soon after that.
Will I be eligible for applying H1B extension (second H1B) now ?
Or the B1 visa that I obtained just after my first H1B will nullify my qualification for H1B extension ?

The two visa types are independent. Using the old approved petition, any employer can file a cap exempt H1 petition for you within 6 Years of last H1 status and you should be able to apply for an extension for 6 Minus time already spent on that H1 petition.

This is my opinion not legal advice.