F1 to H1: does one need to go back to own country for stamping?

[okiedokie]

In case I find an employer in my last semester and apply for H1 this year, and say supposedly I get approved and the H1 kicks in from October.

Will I have to go back to my home country to get the stamping done before I can start working?

Or I can just transfer my status form F1 to H1 and start working here?

[knowledgeable]

No - yes

No you don't HAVE to go to your home country for any stamping of your visa on your passport.

Once you get the approval you can stay in the country and work for your new employer.

However, if and when you leave the country and need to land back at POE, you will THEN need a H1B visa stamped on your passport.

Good luck and take care.

[okiedokie]

Thanks a lot for this clarification.