No interviews slots before july 1 ...pleassse help!!

[meha]

HI
I got my H1 petition approved just yersterday , My employment start date is july 1 but I cannot get any slot for interview before july 26 at Delhi consulate.

Is any one getting any appointment cancelled at Delhi before july 1? Is there any other solution to this problem? Is any one in a similar situation? Is there any chance I could get an earlier date if any slots open up??

any suggestions ...Pleassssssssssse help!!!!

Thanks!

[niranjandeo]

H1

I am in a similar situation but not as bad as yours. It's weird that the consulates don't accept emergency applications for first stamping of H-1B. First time F1 applicants and repeat H1 applicants are allowed to take an emergency appointment but not first time H1 and repeat F1s.

I would recommend asking your employer to send you a document requesting the consulate to expedite your processing as your absence will affect their business/clients adversely. Then apply for an emergency appointment under business emergency or repeat H1 I guess. I think the visa officer would use common sense and won't penalize you. But if you go strictly by the rules, there is nothing you can do.

There is actually another rule which I hope the Delhi govt. relaxes. H1 applicants cannot seek stamping earlier than 10 days before their starting date. Consulates that were expecting a heavy rush of applicants were give an option to relax this condition for FY2005 (see points 5 and 6 in http://travel.state.gov/visa/laws/**...***s_1397.html) . I assume Delhi consulate still follows that option (if anything rush has gone up even more). Otherwise you only have a 10 day window to apply.

-Niranjan

[meha]

Thanks for the information, Niranjan ! I managed to get a regular June appointment at Delhi just yesterday ...

I would advise people facing this problem that DONOT GIVE UP !! sit in front of the computer from morning till evening with application saved..SOMEONE is sure to cancel or reschedule..grab the date as soon as u see it...

[niranjandeo]

Re: No interviews slots before july 1 ...pleassse help!!

That is great! Good luck with your interview.

-Niranjan