Will the L1B Maximum Stay reset after getting another fresh L1B?

[Journeyman]

Hi - I know that L1B max stay is 5 years but I'd like to consult my case. Initially I got a 3 year L1B visa validity, less than a month before it expire I have renewed it and got a fresh 5 year visa validity. Question is, will the 5 year stay still applicable and I still need to get out of US and work for my company in another country for at least 1 year? I mean, why is the consulate gave me another 5 years for a total of 8 years if I can't use it continuously anyway? Just asking though this is a good problem to me Thanks in advance.

[raghvi]

Hi - I know that L1B max stay is 5 years but I'd like to consult my case. Initially I got a 3 year L1B visa validity, less than a month before it expire I have renewed it and got a fresh 5 year visa validity. Question is, will the 5 year stay still applicable and I still need to get out of US and work for my company in another country for at least 1 year? I mean, why is the consulate gave me another 5 years for a total of 8 years if I can't use it continuously anyway? Just asking though this is a good problem to me Thanks in advance.

Was there a 1 Year gap between your last exit from US and fresh L1 stamping? If not then your previous L1 stay would be added. Many a times, especially with a Blanket petition, the consulates dont have enough time or resources to check the past travel history. But I wouldn't advise you to benefit from this oversight. They will eventually find out and if found to have misused you would be made illegal for the entire duration beyond the 5 Year limit. If in doubt consult a lawyer.

Also, only time spent in US in L1 / H1 status is counted.

This is my opinion not legal advice.

[Journeyman]

Will the L1B Maximum Stay reset after getting another fresh L1B?

No, there was no gap. I wanna make sure bec he checked my old visa stamp so I'm thinking he might knew something I don't know. Anyway, thanks for your reply