how soon should I go to India for stamping post conversion from L1b to H1b

[ksatiyahoocom]

I am currently in L1b visa and also got selected for h1b visa and petition for h1b also approved. Can change status on 1st Oct to h1b .
Once status is changed to h1b on 1st Oct , post that , how soon should I goo to India for stamping for new H1b ?. Can I remain in U.S for next 3 years if I dont go to India on H1b ?

[Dx134]

My understanding is that you don't have to go to get a new visa stamp. Remember how when you are starting at a new job, the I-9 instructions ask for your I-94 with the correct status rather than a visa stamp in your passport? As others have stated on this forum: visas are for entry; I-94 is for status. With that said, if you ever want to leave the country, you must plan for visa stamping well in advance. I heard from many of my colleagues that getting a visa appointment within 12 months is nigh impossible at many embassies.