H1B to L2

[santhosh4]

Hi Pals,

I am in a very difficult position now. Your answers to my questions would help me a lot in planning about future.

I am on H1B now and my project is getting over by mid of July. My Visa is valid till 2011 june.

1) Is there anything like grace period to stay in US after the project is over?

2) a) My wife working on L1B. So if i want to change my status to L2, how long is the normal process time? and after that how long does it take to get the EAD on L2.

b) And since my H1B is valid till 2011, can i go back to H1 from L2 after i get a job? if yes, should i apply for H1b again in April through normal procedure or can i continue on the same H1 which i have now? I mean to ask, after changing my status to L2, will be my H1b valid for using it again before 2011?


Any of your input on these queries is very much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[sk4ih]

1) As long as you're paid by your employer, no problem, no matter whether you have project or not. But once your employer cancels your H1, you can't stay in US. No grace period. You'll be out of status (OOS).

2a) You have to apply for Change of Status. It doesn't take long to get EAD. Maybe a month.

2b) If your employer doesn't cancel your H1, you can switch anytime. Else, new H1 is needed.

[santhosh4]

Thanks a lot for your reply !!