So what does this mean for those who didn’t make the cap this year? Most of my clients, who did not make the quota this year are fortunately in F-1 status, with most of having some time left on their OPT period of stay. FY 2013 H-1B hopefuls will now have to make a decision of whether to return to their home countries and enter next fall on an H-1B filed next Spring or perhaps extend their F-1 study.
Many students are calling their campus international student officers to see about extending their I-20s so they can continue their studies. As long as a student is a bona fide, full-time student, s/he can remain in lawful F-1 status. But remember, while staying in the US on an extended I-20 is lawful, keep in mind that anyone wishing to travel will still need to check whether their F-1 visas are still valid.
If you must wait for next year’s H-1B filing window to open on April 1, 2012, please give the attorneys at Romben Law, APC a call to set up a consultation so we can ensure that your petition is one of the first ones received next year. —ecf