F1 Visa and H1B approval – For people Outside United States
Q) I have got my F1 visa in January 2009; I also got my H1b approved in April 2009. I have to join fall 2009 Sep 09 at my University in USA. I am currently in Pakistan. I want to complete at least 2 semesters and then change my status to h1b. My employer is planning to call me by the mid of next year. Kindly guide me and is that possible I may enter USA and start my education on F1, complete my 2 semesters, and then use my H1b approved this year to change my status. I need urgent help. Thanks indeed.
This article is for people who get F1 as well as H1B approval. The above is the question that I got from one of the reader and below is my view on it. Please do comment if you want to add something.
A) Usually you can change your status from F1 to H1 with out any issues but currently as the things are little sensitive, UCSIC (US government) is not approving all applications.
So the best way, I would suggest for you is come here on F1 and complete the course rather than changing to H1B in between which might be little riskier at this point of economic mess.
So if you plan to come here by September, try to choose a course and complete them all as soon as you can and then you can start working on your H1B.
The reason I said its riskier is ? While you come to US, you were awarded the VISA at consulate for your educational purposes(F1 Visa) so they expect you to complete the purpose of coming here and then convert to h1b like every other student. But in between if you try to change something like this, it will create a doubt and will make them to ask for more details on why you are taking this job or some other details on what made you to think to change your mind after 2 semesters.
So Its kind of riskier to do this f1 to h1b conversion with out completing your courses. I did see some people who applied for h1B with out completing their courses and were doing jobs happily on h1b but at this juncture of time (recession) I wouldn’t suggest to opt this method with out completing your courses.
If you need any suggestions on universities that have programs that complete in one year (Masters Degree), I can help you with that.
Let me know and all the best.
F1toH1 Blog 
My best advice is for you and all in your shoes to STAY HOME! Currently the US is flooded with over 50 million asians. We do not have any more room. We have over 25% real unemployment! Again. Please Stay Home!
Unemployed in America
May 12, 2009
America is historically flooded with more than 50 million Irish, English, Scottish people over the years; you might want to reconsider to stay back at home (actual home)
It’s a pity to hear “Immigrant” word from you, knowing how you came to America conquering some innocent people here. I don’t see a big difference in your living to mine as we both came to this country for a purpose. Anyways, we are legally staying here and will stay.
It’s all about globalization and diversity; we are all dependent on each other my friend, don’t forget that.
Ajay
May 12, 2009
Ajay pretty much sums up the situation. In today’s world of ever changing economics, markets drive where humans live & work. Very few might be aware of the fact that many Europeans, Americans and other nationals are working in emerging markets like India, China…etc.
ECONOMICS drives the world!!!
So next time anyone wants to say its my country or your country, you might want to think where your kid would earning his living.
Zandu Balm
May 12, 2009
Wise Say Zandu Balm.
Employed in America
May 12, 2009
Very interesting post !
For US visa interview appointments in Canada, you can refer to nvarsappointment.com
NVARS Appointment
January 21, 2010