uk_wildcats, based on where your application is filed you might have your case pending. the way it sounds like you might be with vermont service center. anyway beside the fact: 1. you can ask for the receipt number from you consulting company and check the status online at : https://egov.uscis.gov/cris/caseStatusSearchDisplay.do 2. you can legally stay 60 days after your OPT expiration day. BUT you CANNOT LEGALLY WORK DURING THAT TIME. MAKE SURE THAT YOU ARE NOT IN ANY PAYROLL. 3. Before your H1B is approved if there is more than 60 days GAP from your OPT expiration and(+15 days) OCT 1, most likely, you will be issued an RFE. and you would need to explain how are you going to maintain your status. You have to do this to get your H1B approved. and they will assign your H1B to consulate. that means you have to go to Nepal and get it visa and come back. you cannot go to CANADA or Mexico in this case. 15 days is based on the fact that H1-B are allowed to enter only 15 days before the effective date. 4. if you want to actually work and be in H1. then the safest way is to leave the country with your H1-B approval and come back with a valid visa. ===================================================== as always what do i know (O: