OPT F1 to H1B Stamping

[bharat123]

I was on OPT-F1 till August 2010 when my H1B petition was approved. Prior to this, I was a doctoral student working here in academics for the past year and half post my doctorate. I will be traveling to Mumbai, India from Nov 22 till Dec 23, 2010.

I have THREE questions and would be nice if you can guide me.

Q1. Am I considered: "A resident of India/Bhutan" or "An Indian citizen resident in the US."?

I called VFS helpline and the rep told me I am considered "A resident of India/Bhutan". I have asked for a written confirmation of this via email and awaiting their response.

Q2. What should I select for "Are you applying for the same class of visa which is currently valid or has expired within the past 12 months?*" Yes or No.

Q3. Today is Nov 10, 2010. Can I expect an appointment date for Dec 1st or 2nd week?

Thank You

[shervin143]

Q1. Am I considered: "A resident of India/Bhutan" or "An Indian citizen resident in the US."?

I called VFS helpline and the rep told me I am considered "A resident of India/Bhutan". I have asked for a written confirmation of this via email and awaiting their response.
>>> Go with whatever VFS say.

Q2. What should I select for "Are you applying for the same class of visa which is currently valid or has expired within the past 12 months?*" Yes or No.
>>> No. Since your last visa was F1 and the new visa that you are seeking is H1B.

Q3. Today is Nov 10, 2010. Can I expect an appointment date for Dec 1st or 2nd week?
>>> Possible. It depends on whether you can find the available dates.

[kabkaba]

By default you are resident of India, in very specific cases resident of US is applicable.
Since you have never had H1 Visa, select the appropriate option. (No)
Keep checking on VFS website for dates.

[bharat123]

Thank You

Thank you all, for your guidance.

I could get an appointment date of Dec 1, 2010 at Mumbai.