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by proberts 516 days ago
The best and easiest option because your spouse is in H-1B status is to apply to change your status to dependent H-4 status using USCIS Form I-539. As long as this is filed during your grace period, you can remain in the U.S. while the application is pending/until it is approved.
1 comments
safog 516 days ago
What happens if / when you eventually find a job? Can you file another change of status to a H1B? Does the status of the original change of status app matter? (e.g., can you apply for a COS to H1 while the COS to H4 is still pending?)

Thank you!

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proberts 516 days ago
Yes, a COS from H-4 to H-1B is an option. However, if the H-4 COS is still pending, you might not be able to get the H-1B petition approved as a change of status but all this means is that to "activate" the approved H-1B petition, you would need to leave the U.S. and reenter with your existing visa stamp (obtained through the previous company) or leave the U.S. and apply for an H-1B visa (if you don't have a valid H-1B visa stamp obtained through the previous company).
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