Concerned about losing status on H1B

[SusanWarrior]

Hi,
My current contract is expiring in a few days. Please advice me on my options for maintaining legal status until I find another job. Should I file for a tourist visa or an F1? How easy is it to switch from the H1B to F1 and back to an H1B? Thanks a lot.
Susan

[Subramanya]

H1 issues

My current contract is expiring in a few days. Please advice me on my options for maintaining legal status until I find another job. Should I file for a tourist visa or an F1? How easy is it to switch from the H1B to F1 and back to an H1B? Thanks a lot.

---- The safer way will be to apply for a H4 (if that is possible). Else file for a B1/B2 Visa to regain the legal status of staying in the US. Applying for F1 may take time unless admission to an institution is guaranteed immediately. Make the switch over to H1 at alater date when you find an employer to transfer your H1

Subramanya