F-1 to H1B transition after stamping

[supportnkindness]

Hi,

I'm an Indian citizen on F-1 OPT planning to visit India for H1B stamping. The H1B visa start in Sept. I would appreciate if someone could answer these questions:
-How long is it currently taking in US embassies in India to get H1B visa appointment, are they even giving appointments for H1B visas
-If the stamping gets done, can I return to the US before my H1B start date on F-1 visa, without going through the hassle of National Interest Exemption

Thanks,

[rkk09]

Hi,
Please see my response below.
-How long is it currently taking in US embassies in India to get H1B visa appointment, are they even giving appointments for H1B visas
Answer: Yes. They are. But booking appointments in near dates are very critical. But, I would say, some are booking dates in November and December 2021.
-If the stamping gets done, can I return to the US before my H1B start date on F-1 visa, without going through the hassle of National Interest Exemption
Answer: I don't really think so, your plan will workout as you would have got visa on H1B and you can consider NIE on H1B.
Thanks