Can I transfer from H1 to L1B while in US

USA L1, L2 Visa
1

Hi All,

 I am in the last year of my 6yrs period in US. Iniyially I was on L1 for a year and 4 years on H1. This is my 5th yr on H1 and 6th yr in US though it was not a continuous stay. I have my H1 797 valid until Sep 2013 and am in US right now. Meanwhile Can I transfer this H1 to L1 so my employer can sponser me a GC on L1? I have already worked for an year for the same company in India last year. Also if this is not an option can my employer or any other company sponser me a fresh H1 in next year qouta while I am in US? What are my chances of getting either of the 2 approved? Do I have to get my new visa stamped before starting work with new status?

Please let me know. Any help is highly appreciated.

Thanks

2

To clarify, L1 has two types. L1A and l1B

  1. L1A - is for manager and person can stay for 7 yrs in US

  2. L1B - is for specialized knowledge and valid only for 5 ys.

If you are elligible for L1A then yes; your employer can do that.