Only have I797C and I797B approval notices, is I797A a must for H1 transfer

USA
1

Only have I797C and I797B approval notices, is I797A a must for H1 transfer since it has i94 attached to it?

My existing employer confirmed that they don’t have I797A approval notice. Please note that I moved from India to US with my current employer based on the current H1 but somehow never received I797A.

If it is a must, then how can I obtain I797A copy?

2

First time H1B from out of US always goes the consular processing ( visa stamping) route so you get I-797B. When applying for transfer in the US you can use your I-797B and the I-94 issued by the CBP at port of entry along with other supporting documents.
If your transfer is approved, you will receive I-797A with I-94 attached as you are already in the US.

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3

Thanks so much, Kalpesh, for your prompt response! This is very clear to me now.