H1B visa restamping in Canada (Toronto) with valid i797A, but expired H1B stamp on passport

[Thomas82]

Hi all,

 I am an H1B visa holder (cap-exempt from university) with an Indian passport. My first H1B visa stamped in 2015, expired on June 15th 2017. The H1B extension took awhile to arrive. I now have a valid i797A till June 15 2020. I need to get the H1B restamped on my passport as I may need to travel to Europe in May 2018 for work-related purpose. Prior to applying for a Schengen visa, I realized that I need to have a valid H1B stamp. Can the restamping be done at a US consulate in Canada with a valid i797A, but expired H1B stamp? I was wondering if this can be done. During the visa processing step, I could stay with my brother who is a Canadian citizen in Toronto. I am aware that I need to apply for a Canadian Visit visa to enter Canada for this purpose. However I am not sure if the H1B restamping would be refused because the previous H1B stamp has expired, despite a valid i797. I am trying to avoid a trip to India as I do not have that many leave days for that purpose. I have gone through several forums and could not get a conclusive answer.

Another note is that I got my Indian passport renewed in 2016, so the original H1B visa that was stamped in 2015 happens to be on the old passport.  Could i still get my H1B visa restamped in Canada given these circumstances? If yes, what all documents do I need to have/furnish at the consulate. All experiences, feedback and input will be highly appreciated.

Thomas

[gopalakrishnach]

Can the restamping be done at a US consulate in Canada with a valid i797A, but expired H1B stamp?... YES.

Carry your new and old passport.

 

[Thomas82]

Highly appreciate your input. Besides, the regular set of documents for H1B restamping, valid i797, old and new passport, do I need any other additional documents?? And what is the process in collecting the stamped passport? Do you get to collect it in person from the consulate or is it send via post to a particular address? How long does it take for either of the two?

[gopalakrishnach]

I need any other additional documents? - Yes there are few documents. You need to carry all whatever you can. Please do search here and you will get the list. Everyone has their own list.

And what is the process in collecting the stamped passport? - In Canada they will send to one of the post office location that you will select during taking interview slot.

Do you get to collect it in person from the consulate or is it send via post to a particular address? - Post to a particular address and there you need to go and collect in person along with your form of ID.

How long does it take for either of the two? - Best case scenario for successful stamping with out 221G in Canada is 3 to 5 working days.