Dear all,
I want to share my experience with all the H-1b holders.
1. I got my first H1-b at company A on Aug 15, 2003.
2. I filed my transfer on Nov.03,2003. (not premium)
3. My Opt expired on Feb 15th, 2004.
4. I received my REF (need additional documents) on May 15th, 2004.
5. I file my REF on June 29th, 2004.
6. My H-1b transfer was denied on July 15th,2004(I have 30 days to appeal).
7. My lawyer refiled exactly the same material on July 28th, 2004 on Premium.
8. My H-1b was approved on Aug 5th, 2004, which is today.
Things to remember:
1. Many lawyers suggest not to do the premium because it makes things more complicated when you want to apply your first H-1b. I think it is right. But premium is imperative when the case become very desperate, like mine.
2. Keep good relationship with ex-employer because even if everything can't work out ONE PAYCHECK from ex-employer can prove that you are in valid status. I didn't do that well so I was scared because several lawyers told me that going back to beg the paycheck from Company A was my only option. I can't even change my status to F-1.
3. Denial will not be final until you give up appeal. So the INS computer system cannot detect the denial. Resubmit the case should be done on time, at least file it 15 days before the deadline of the appeal.
Be careful everyone.