B1 to H1B immigration status transfer

[Swaroop Rath]

Hi

I have had both B1 and H1B visa stamped on my passport. I entered US in B1 - to meet my fiancee. My start date with my new employer was not finalised and that made more sense. Now my employer wants me to join on H1B. Can I change my immigration status from B1 to H1B, without leaving the country ? Some friends have advised me to go to Mexico/Canada and reenter US on H1B but I do not want to go down that route if I have some other alternative.

[jnk]

First time you have to go to your home country for visa stamping. You can't go to Canada/Mexico