Question details
What are the options to maintain status after a job loss when an individual is on their first H-1B but has an approved PERM and I-140 from a future employer?
ANSWER
FAQ Transcript
Once an I-140 is approved and held for 180 days, the priority date is locked, and the applicant can extend an H-1B infinitely with any employer. To bridge a gap between roles, filing for a B-1 visa with an explicit intent of job hunting is a suggested strategy, rather than switching to an F-1 unless it represents a logical career progression.