F-2 to H-4 status change questions within U.S.

[echoe]

I'm holding F-2 visa now and want to change to H-4.

My husband is a postdoc who's applying non-quote H-1B. His OPT will expire on 8/31. Do I have to file H-4 petition together with him or can I wait till his H-1 get approved, then I file my application later?

My concern is after his H-1B get approved, my F-2 status will automatically expire, is there a problem to file H-4 petition during grace period?

[Subramanya]

H4 status

I'm holding F-2 visa now and want to change to H-4.

My husband is a postdoc who's applying non-quote H-1B. His OPT will expire on 8/31. Do I have to file H-4 petition together with him or can I wait till his H-1 get approved, then I file my application later?

My concern is after his H-1B get approved, my F-2 status will automatically expire, is there a problem to file H-4 petition during grace period?[/QUOTE]

---- It will be better if you apply for your H4 along with the H1B and not wait till the H1 is approved. On the other hand there will be problems if your F-2 status expires as it will amount to a lot of questioning

Subramanya