How long can I stay before entering US on H1B?

Question

I just got picked up for H1b in the lot system. My next step would be to schedule an interview right. My question is after getting through in the interview and stamping of visa, how long can I stay back in my current job (in Dubai) before I need to enter the US? Or if I delay the interview will that give me more time without affecting my chances. Please assist.

Answer 1

Your H-1B visa will be issued on or after the date of the approved petition start date. You can enter the U.S. to work for the petitioner anytime during the validity period of the petition. You can enter during the 10 day period before the start date of the petition if you have been issued the visa before the start date.

If you do not want to enter the U.S. as soon as possible, that's all right, but when you eventually attempt to enter the U.S., you'll have to be able to prove that you are entering to work for the petitioner.

You can delay the interview, if you want. You can delay your arrival, if you want. The important issue will be:  Are you entering the U.S. to work for the petitioner or someone else?

If the U.S. petitioner does not care when you start, you can start working in the U.S. anytime during the validity period of the petition.