H-1 stamped and L-1 also being processed

[TanyaSharma]

Hi,

I have a bit of a complicated query. Request you to please share any information that you may have on this.
I am employed in Company A for the past 11 years. Company A processes very few H1s and L1s. Hence, I applied for a H1 through Company B. My H1 and H4(for my family) was approved and stamped. Now to retain me, Company A has started the process of filing for an L1A through their immigration firm. I have informed the immigration firm that I have a valid H-1 that has never been traveled on. My question is:
1. Can my H-1 be converted to an L-1 and if so what is the time taken under premium processing, regular mode?

Do let me know if you require any additional info from my side on this. Any info on this would be of great help.
Thanks in advance.

[raghvi]

Hi,

I have a bit of a complicated query. Request you to please share any information that you may have on this.
I am employed in Company A for the past 11 years. Company A processes very few H1s and L1s. Hence, I applied for a H1 through Company B. My H1 and H4(for my family) was approved and stamped. Now to retain me, Company A has started the process of filing for an L1A through their immigration firm. I have informed the immigration firm that I have a valid H-1 that has never been traveled on. My question is:
1. Can my H-1 be converted to an L-1 and if so what is the time taken under premium processing, regular mode?

Do let me know if you require any additional info from my side on this. Any info on this would be of great help.
Thanks in advance.

No you cannot. Every visa has a different purpose and every work visa has a different petition associated with it. And H1 and L1 visas are not interchangeable. Your L1 visas will be assessed on its own merit and if the consulate finds it suitable you would be granted L1 visa. Though L1A has its own benefits, Seeing the current trend it will be easier if the current company does a transfer of H1, rather than try for a new L1.

This is my opinion not legal advice.

[TanyaSharma]

No you cannot. Every visa has a different purpose and every work visa has a different petition associated with it. And H1 and L1 visas are not interchangeable. Your L1 visas will be assessed on its own merit and if the consulate finds it suitable you would be granted L1 visa. Though L1A has its own benefits, Seeing the current trend it will be easier if the current company does a transfer of H1, rather than try for a new L1.

This is my opinion not legal advice.

Thanks so much Raghvi for your prompt response.