I'm a UK citizen, and am going through the process of obtaining an H1-B visa for the USA. There's a fair backlog at the moment so I have some free time on my hands and I'd like to visit the USA (to see friends and family, not to work).
If I have an H1-B application in progress, am I allowed to visit the USA on a visa waiver?
Yes, you can - the pending H1-B application does not impact your ability to use the VWP program at all. As with anyone using VWP you will need to obtain an ESTA in advance of your trip.
The only real complication is that you can not change from VWP to H1-B status whilst in the US. ie, if/when your H1-B is approved, you will need to leave the US to obtain your visa and then re-enter the US using that visa to get your H1-B status.
