Is it possible to do H1B to L1A conversion while in the US?

[nasman]

Hi,

currently I am in US on H1B. My H1B is about to max out and i am looking at the possibility of converting from H1B to L1A. I am looking for some clarification on the below queries
1. Can i (my employer) do the conversion while I am in the US or do i need go back to my country and then file the Change of Status from there?
2. My H1B will max out in the next 6 months. In one of the threads on IMMIHELP, someone mentioned that i need to have at least 6 months on my H1B before i do the conversion, but i was not able to get any clear information. is this true?

it would be of great help if you could provide any clarification /additional information on the above queries.

Thanks,
Nass

[me_shaan]

You can file your petition from US, but you have to go to a visa issuing post outside US to get your L1A stamped. Instead of travelling to India, you can look at options of going to US consulates in Mexico/Canada.
Also, H1B to L1A conversion might not be that simple unless you have been recently promoted or had a grade hike within your organization to qualify you as a managerial/executive function holder.

[nasman]

You can file your petition from US, but you have to go to a visa issuing post outside US to get your L1A stamped. Instead of travelling to India, you can look at options of going to US consulates in Mexico/Canada.
Also, H1B to L1A conversion might not be that simple unless you have been recently promoted or had a grade hike within your organization to qualify you as a managerial/executive function holder.

thanks Shaan for your inputs.
Note: I am good with rest of the requirements for L1A:-)