Change of status from H1 to B2

[rvw]

Hi
I got laid off recently and need to stay legal till I can transfer my H1 to another company
Can I apply for a change of status from H1b to B2 while being in the US?
How much time does it take?
What are the chances of rejection?
Is I 539 the form?
What is the procedure and precautions?

Thanks

[txh1b]

You can. But the intention is to not wait till the B2 is processed. It could take several months and could result in a denial as well. You have to find a job soon, use the B2 as a bridge, get a new H1b PPd, travel out and re-enter on that approved H1b.

For a "bridging" to work as extension of stay all petitions have to be approved which may not happen. Read bridging posts on the forum.