Travel on F1 visa after filing for H1B

[Naseer Khan]

Hi,

I am currently on OPT EAD which is valid until 2019 December and employed in my related field. I am planning to Travel to India after filing for H1B on April 2nd 2018. I have a few questions:

1) What happens to my H1B if I travel in April or May (after filing for H1B), would my H1B application be abandoned?

2) If travel is allowed, What is the recommended time for travel?

Is it safe to travel in this situation? What is the recommended time for travel in this scenario? Any advise is greatly appreciated. 

Thank You!

[pontevecchio]

1. The H1 petition will always be decided on merits. If you leave before approval there will be no change of status and hence you will need a H1 visa at the appropriate time.

[Naseer Khan]

Would I still be able to re-enter into the US on F1 (OPT EAD) visa? if returning in May / June 2018.

Thanks for the quick response.