H1B - Visa Extension...

[santoshk]

this forum has been very helpful to me regarding my doubts and questions.
I am grateful to the person who actually made this and also to the people
my H1b visa expires by may 31st 2010.so i filed my H1B Visa extension was filed on february 19th. The status till now shows initial review.

my question or my doubt regarding my situation is : i am planning to go to india during the 3rd week of may for my brother's marriage and return on 26th may 2010. i wanted to know if i can actually travel if i do not receive my I797 by the time i leave. any suggestions and advices are welcome.
i also wanted to know why is it still in the initial review stage even after so many days after filing the visa extension.

thank you for your help in advance.

[shervin143]

Not advisable to travel when the extension is in progress. This could get the extension denied if the application is taken for processing during the time when you are outside the country.

Normal process time is 2-3 months. They could take your applicantion anytime during this time frame.