L1 to H1

[rohanus]

I am currently on L1 visa with validity till oct 2009. I have been in the US for last 4 years on this visa. I am plannning to apply for H1 next year.

But however i have the following questions.
1.) Will the number of years which i was in L1, add up to my H1 max years(6).
2.)Also after applying for H1, can leave US before my petition gets approved.

Kindly help. Thank you in advance.

[txh1b]

1. Yes. FAQs please. L1+H1=6 years
2. If it is a COS, not recommended. Read everything about leapfrog and decide if the H1b has to be a COS or non-COS. My recommendation, go without a COS if you want to continue on L1 past H1b approval. But your employer might go for COS without your approval.

[hikes]

Please DO NOT for COS from L1 to H1 if you want to continue on L1 after your H1 is apporved.

The H1 employers / consulants are really blood suckers and can do a COS without your approval.
When you apply for H1, DO NOT give your current I94 to them. They'll definitely apply with COS because they do not care for you and just want to make some easy money.

There are lots of hazards if you do COS from L1 to H1.

Best wishes.

[rohanus]

Thanks

Thanks a lot for the information.