Can I transfer from H1 to L1B while in US

USA H1B 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

L1B is only for a period of 5 years which you have already exceeded. The other option you have is to convert your H1b to L1A, but this is difficult as your employer has to show the justification that you are a manager with people management responsibility. If this can be done you will get one more year on L1A here. Meanwhile your employer can apply for GC.

Ram