L1 to H1 | urgent

[nehagarg]

I currently have an L1-B Visa. I am applying for an H1 Visa. But I do not wish my status to change from Oct 1. If I do not file under Change of status, is it possible to continue working on L1 unless I get my H1 stamped?

Please help!

[itzprams]

I currently have an L1-B Visa. I am applying for an H1 Visa. But I do not wish my status to change from Oct 1. If I do not file under Change of status, is it possible to continue working on L1 unless I get my H1 stamped?

Please help!

Ask your sponsorer to apply with CP (Consular processing) and NOT with COS (Change of status).

[rajeshgohad]

This is a bit tricky, since COS is valid if you are applying a visa from outside of US, but when u r in US and when you apply for H1 B and once your I797 is issued, your status is automatically changed to H1 and it is not advisable to work under L1 after this (I797 approval which comes by Sep-Oct).

I know people who have done COS H1 B and still continued to work under L1. There are possible repercussions when you next time go either for renewal or stamping, and these days its getting tougher, I would sincerely suggest to ask some lawyer before you do this. Paying 50-60$ is worth it.