passport extension question h1b->f1

[ac2491]

hi,

i have a weird problem. I am on H1-B VISA with the H1-B extension already filed by my company. I would be joining PhD program so H1-B to F1. My passport expires 2012. I would be getting F1 stamp in august 2010.

Do I need to renew my passport since the expiration date is 2012 and the PhD program is for 5 years? If I don't will I get F1 VISA till 2012 and not the program duration?

thanks for all the help

[shervin143]

Passport can be renewed only 12 months in advance. Since your passport is valid for almost 2 years, you might get the visa for the full duration.

[ac2491]

h1->f1

Hi,

I am currently on H1-B VISA with my H1-B extension pending (filed and should be ready in a couple of months).

I am going to get my F1 stamped (going back to school) in a week. What happens if F1 is rejected? Can I come back on the existing H1 VISA or can I then get VISA stamped for H1-B extension?

thanks

[shervin143]

Depending on the VO, your existing H1B visa in the passport might get cancelled when you go for the F1 stamping. If F1 gets denied and at the same time your H1B gets cancelled, then you need to book an appointment to get the H1B extension stamped.