After finishing OPT and filing H-1B, can I use the Grace Period even if I’m not selected in the lottery?
I’m planning to file H-1B on April 1st after finishing OPT. It seems like it will take some time before the H-1B lottery results come out, and I understand that if I’m not selected, I’ll need to leave.
I’d like to know: even if I’m ultimately not selected in the H-1B lottery, can I use the 60-day Grace Period to stay in the U.S. a bit longer?
First, after filing H-1B on April 1st, you can lawfully remain in the U.S. while waiting for the lottery outcome, and even if you’re not selected, you can lawfully remain during the 60-day Grace Period. However, you should go over the exact calculations for the period after your status expires, the H-1B filing and waiting period, and the Grace Period dates in detail with an attorney.