L1 extension - I94 query

[privaterjesh]

My L1B visa is expiring in dec 2012 and My I 94 is valid till Apr 2014. I was advised to apply for visa in Jan 2014 and stay in I94 till I get the extension.
If I stay in I94 then I wont be able to travel outside US in case of any urgency.
So is it possible to apply for the extension now rather than waiting till Jan 2014?

[raghvi]

My L1B visa is expiring in dec 2012 and My I 94 is valid till Apr 2014. I was advised to apply for visa in Jan 2014 and stay in I94 till I get the extension.
If I stay in I94 then I wont be able to travel outside US in case of any urgency.
So is it possible to apply for the extension now rather than waiting till Jan 2014?

You cannot get an extended visa while in US. You can only request for extension and change of immigrant status. Extension if I-94 is expiring in next 6 Months and change of status if you want to move to H1/B1/L1/L2 etc...Irrespective of whether you apply for extension or change of status, after December 2012 as and when you leave US, in order for you to return to US after Dec 2012, you need to get a new visa stamped in your passport at US consulate outside US.

In case you apply for extension of status, USCIS will most likely return your application saying extension not required. If you want the ability to travel out and in of US after Dec 2012 you need to get a new visa stamped in your passport which will happen only outside US in US consulate.

This is my opinion not legal advice.