H-1B Quota and the "Reminder Option"

Question details

I have H-1B stamped valid till March 2014 and I am in India right now. My current employer laid me off and cancelled my petition.I have got a call from a consultant that they can file a new petition in premium category against my exiting stamped visa under cap exempt category even if my current petition is already cancelled. Can I use my H-1B in this way even if my petition is cancelled by my earlier employer and me being available in India .

ANSWER

There are two parts to your question. Are you subject to H-1 quota? The answer is no, not until you have been physically outside USA for a year. Even after that, you may have the "remainder option." Second, can you use the same visa stamp to travel? The answer is after your H-1 approval, consulates want you to come in for stamping again.

Nonimmigrant Visas