As early as possible. You must start considering options at least 2-3 months prior to expiration of your I-94.
A petition for extension of H2B status can only be filed by an employer in possesion of a Labor Certification. The best way to find H2B jobs and get help with your H2B visa extension is to sign up with an trusted agency. You can also try searching for job at www.h2bportal.com. You have to have a job first before you can have employer file extension for you.
Leaving the country on an H2B Visa extension is perfectly normal. The downside is that re-entry is not possible under such document. In order to re-enter the United States, you must obtain a valid visa.
Petitions for H2B workers are filed by US employers. You must first locate an employer willing to hire you and file a petition on your behalf.
There are several ways you can loose your H2B status. You can loose your status for anything that violates H2B Program regulations (such as, not working for your designated employer)
hello, i entered in the usa as h2b visa , and just expired last nov 2012, can i get a greencard if i get married to a greencard holder
Yes, it is possible. This action does not case an immediate cancellation.
It depends if the alien is being brought from abroad, or if the applicant is in the U.S.
No.
The best thing to do is to apply for a B2 tourist visa before your H2B expires. That way, you do not need to leave the country before starting your tour of the US. Technically, you can leave and apply for a tourist visa in the Caribbean. Realistically, if your application is denied you will not be stuck in the Caribbean and unable to return to the US.
If your I94 expires without renewal, then there is not legal time-frame. You are considered out of status the day after your I-94 expiration date. Further H2B status and employment is less likely from that point.
"A" number, if its referred to Alien number, then non-immigrant workers on that status do not get "A" numbers.
The agreed contractual employer can and will report you to immigration.