Help is needed

[Nina]

Dear Mr. Samson:

I am a student with Visa F-1. This is my 5th year in the U.S. I have always been in status until May 31, 2001. Then I forgot to extend my I-20 and had to apply for reinstatement. I have been reinstated on November 10, 2001. Now I am ready to graduate this summer and I have found job. My job starts in late August. But unfortunately, I have learned that I cannot apply for optimal practical training until 9 month after reinstatement, i.e. August 6. I know that it takes up to 4 month for INS to consider application for optimal practical training. Is there something that can be done? Also, how reinstatement can affect my application for visa H-1? Will I have to go back to Russia to obtain visa H-1? What is the best way to fix the problem? Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Allan Samson]

Foreign student advisors know more about this type of issue than I do -- i.e., the none month wait. But let us suppose it is true. You must then wait. This is unfortunate. If this is so, you should ask the foreign student advisor whether you should continue to be a full-time student during this period so you do not fall out of status. Reinstatement will not affect any application for an H-1. If you are in valid practical training status the company can petition for an H-1B for you and you can become an H-1B here and will not have to return to Russia. Good Luck, ALLAN SAMSON

[Nina]

Dear Mr. Samson:

Thank you very much for the information. I greatly appreciate your kindness.

Nina