H1 has been rejected,need to go for H4 please Help.No much time left

[abedijagan]

hi frdz,
I am on a F2 visa status due till September 31st 2008 and I have applied for H1B Visa but got a rejection letter just today.My wife is on H1B status so i want to apply for H4 visa as soon as possible so that I wont be out of status.I have one more month to for my F2 valid status.Give me suggestions on what to do ?

1)Shall I go back to india for stamping or can i change my status in US Consulate?
2)How much does it usually take to process?
3)can i go back home while it is in process?

Please help,its urgent.
Thanks a lot in advance.

[peterv]

You can change your status from F2 to H4 in US. It may take about 2 months for the process, and it is better to not back to home country while it is in process.

The duration of H4 stay is limited to and equal to that of the H-1B visa holder. H4 holders are permitted to attend school on either a part-time or full-time basis. H4 holders are not permitted to work, however, unless otherwise authorized by the USCIS.

[abedijagan]

Hi Peterv,
Thanks for a quick response and info.