H-1B Visa Guide - Part 2 (Win a Free Pass!)

Hey there!

We’re giving away three FREE All-Access Passes (worth $199) to the Open Atlas Summit, the largest event for tech immigrants in America, happening Aug 15th -16th in Milpitas, CA.

If you’re in California or the Bay Area and want to network with 850+ ambitious immigrants, meet 20 top immigration lawyers for free consults, and attend panels on talent visas, H-1Bs, and alternative pathways - you’ll want in on this.

To enter:
Just reply to this email with:

• Your full name

• Where you’re based

• One sentence on why you want to attend

Enter by 11:59pm August 12th, we’ll pick the winner tomorrow (Aug 13th). The event is Aug 15th - 16th in Milpitas, CA.
If you don’t want to wait, you can still use code “ROAM20” for 20% off the All-Access Pass - only for the first 50 redemptions. We hope to see you there!

H-1B Guide, Part 2: What Happens After You’re Selected

Last time, we covered the H-1B process and your chances of being selected. Now let’s talk about what to do after you’ve been picked in the lottery - because getting selected is just the beginning.

1. Change of Status (Inside the U.S.)

If you’re already in the U.S., the most common route is Change of Status.

• Once approved, your H-1B status automatically takes effect October 1.

• You’ll get an I-797A approval notice and can stay in the U.S. during the “Cap-Gap” if your OPT ends before Oct 1.

• Travel restrictions: If you depart the U.S. while a Change of Status petition is still pending or before Oct 1 (even if approved), USCIS will consider the COS abandoned, and you’ll need to obtain an H‑1B visa stamp abroad through consular processing to re‑enter.

• Tip: If you still have OPT left, think strategically - activating H-1B early means giving up remaining OPT time.

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2. Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.)

This is common if:

• You’re outside the U.S.

• You need to travel between April and October.

• You want to finish your OPT before activating H-1B.

Your employer must choose this option when filing the petition. Once approved, you’ll get an I-797B and must leave the U.S., attend a visa interview, and re-enter with your H-1B visa stamp.

3. Scheduling the H-1B Visa Interview

• Create a profile on your country’s U.S. visa site (e.g. ustraveldocs.com). Starting September 2, 2025, most H‑1B visa applicants must attend an in‑person consular interview. Interview waivers (“dropbox”) will only apply in very narrow circumstances, such as certain diplomatic categories.

• Pay the MRV fee and book your interview

• Bring required documents like your passport, I-797 approval, job offer, degree certificates, and LCA.

4. The Interview: What to Expect

The consular officer will confirm your eligibility, specialty occupation, and intent.
Common topics:

• Your job role and how it meets H-1B requirements

• Your employer’s business

• Your qualifications and how they fit the job

Pro tips:

• Dress professionally

• Be concise and confident

• Keep documents organized

5. After the Interview

• Approval: You’ll get your passport back with the visa stamp

• Administrative processing: May take weeks if more review is needed

• Denial: Officer will give the reason; you can reapply after fixing issues

6. Entering the U.S. on H-1B

• You can enter up to 10 days before Oct 1

• These 10 extra days are only for arrival; you cannot work until the H‑1B start date printed on your approval notice or I‑94.

• At the port of entry, CBP will issue your I-94 confirming your status and authorized stay

Getting selected in the H-1B lottery is only step one. How you activate your status - and whether you choose Change of Status or Consular Processing - can impact your travel plans, work authorization, and even your OPT time. Be strategic, stay organized, and prepare well for your interview. We’ll cover RFE’s and more in the next newsletter - see you then!

Best,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡