Just learned the news about 20000 more H1b quota. My OPT expires in mid October 2005. Is it better for me to file H1b application right away or wait till April 1, 2005? 有朋友劝我尽快申请，以免夜长梦多。But the only concern I have right now is that I might been safer under OPT than H1b. However, the chance I got laid off is kind of slight as the company I'm working for is still hiring.

如果我立刻申请2005年的H1b,是否需要加急?曾经听说只要占上名额，加不加急都无妨，因为我还有近11个月的opt,但是就怕万一...

How long does it take if apply without premium process? If the new regulation is effective from Feb., there are 8 months till my OPT expires. I'm in CA.

I am working right now and all the documents are ready. But how can I file the H1b petition if the new regulation is not effective in 3 months?