H1 to H4 and then a new H1

[lavania]

Hi

I have completed 5 years on H1B and have got an extension till Oct 2012. I will be going on maternity leave in Jan 2012.

If I transfer my visa to H4 and stay at home for one year, can I apply for a new H1B after the one year. Is being on H4 visa for one year considered to apply a new H1B petition to reset the time to 6 years.

Thanks in advance.

[shervin143]

In order to get a fresh 6 year in H1B you need to stay out of U.S for 1 whole year and then file a fresh H1B petition on a new CAP. Staying in H4 status will not reset the clock.