H1b- unpaid leave for 8 weeks

[sivapriya]

Hi..I had a baby 11 weeks ago. My FMLA expires in a week and I am supposed to return to work. I am on my h1b and would like to take another 8 weeks of unpaid leave since all my paid leave has been exhausted.

Is it possible to be on h1b and be unpaid for 8 weeks? I will have to stay in the US for all the 8 weeks due to personal reasons. Any input highly appreciated.

Thanks

[jairichi]

You cannot do that on H1B. You need to file a COS to B2. Make sure you talk to your employer about insurance coverage for you and your baby during those 8 weeks.