But H1b is not an immigration visa, It is a temporary work permit allowing doctors like me to work in the US. If this was immigration I would be happy to wait because I'd be working meantime. I cannot work or apply elsewhere until a decision is made. I don't know but it doesn't make sense that USCIS approves your H1b petition and yet the consulate in your country cannot give you a definitive timeline to approve your visa. Doesn't USCIS run a background check before they approve an H1b petition? doesn't make sense they would approve anyone and the understaffed consulate becomes the gatekeeper of who gets it. Very inefficient system.
Also this kind of beats the purpose of the H1b. if the skilled worker ends up having to look elsewhere because visa approval is extremely delayed. Never mind the thousands of dollars paid by employer for the petition. It does not makes sense to me.
For the Mandamus, does this also apply to the US consulate in my country? Because it is not USCIS that is the issue, they already approved the petition.