H1 to F1 after 4.5 years

[krdbbv01]

Hi Folks

 

I am currently in US on a H1 visa that is valid till Jan 2018. I am planning to pursue a full time MS next fall- 2016. Its a 1 year STEM accredited course. By that time I would have spend about 4.5 years on my current H1 petition.

 

I have the following questions:

 

1. Will I be eligible for a new 6 year H1 after I graduate? or will I get just the 12+17 months OPT and the 1.5 years left on my H1?

2. In case I am not eligible for a full new 6 years, will that be a potential roadblock in seeking an employment? 

3. Is there a workaround in case I don't get the full 6 years again?

 

Thanks

RK

[jairichi]

1. No. 1.5 years.

2. No.

3. Employer should be willing to file a GC for you.

[krdbbv01]

Thanks Jairichi.

 

for Q 1. when you say 1.5 years, I believe that is in addition to the OPT, right? or will I not be eligible for OPT?

 

Also, can  the employer file a new H1 (i.e not to transfer the current H1 and do a completely new H1)?

[jairichi]

Thanks Jairichi.

 

for Q 1. when you say 1.5 years, I believe that is in addition to the OPT, right? or will I not be eligible for OPT?

 

Also, can  the employer file a new H1 (i.e not to transfer the current H1 and do a completely new H1)?

1.5 years on H1B. If you are eligible for OPT those are extra months/years for you.

A complete new H1B (cap subject) to get 6 years can be filed only after you stayed outside US for a year.