Transfer of H1B visa during extension

[adityabhat]

I have applied for a H1-B visa extension and the application was submitted to USCIS on July 10, 2013 and awaiting new I797. Since the average time for the approval of the H1-B extension is 6 months, I am not expecting approval before January 10, 2014. Can I change jobs (employer) while my extension request is being processed? if so, what procedure to follow in order to transfer my visa from my current employer to my future employer. Thank you.

[arvind_shanbhag]

i think you should be able to switch employers (depends on whether you have your prior H1B approval receipt). Your case will not be a straight transfer with employer B but an extension. I think the term is called "bridge" where employer A / your current employer H1B receipt can also be provided in your employer B H1B extension application.

 

Please do consult with your employer lawyer / immigration team to ensure you are in a good shape to switch though, my personal opinion (not a lawyer opinion) is that you should be okay to switch.