L1A - Options for continued stay beyond 7 years

[sagdacct1]

Hello,

I have completed 5 yrs in L1A visa recently, with my second extension being processed just within the last month.

I was under the impression that just like h1b, I should be able to file I140 sometime before I exhaust all 7 yrs and that would allow me to continue the stay beyond 7 years. However I learnt that it is not possible with L1 visa even with an approved I140.

Given that the EB1 dates have retrogressed significantly in last year or so, what are the options that can be pursued at this stage ?

1) Is switching to H1b an option ? I think all my 5 yrs would count towards h1 6 yrs limit as well.
2) Or filing in EB1 category at this point would still help ?

Any guidance is highly appreciated.

[Libra_14]

1) Is switching to H1b an option ? I think all my 5 yrs would count towards h1 6 yrs limit as well.

That's correct. You can only file your H1B before completing 6 years in USA.

2) Or filing in EB1 category at this point would still help ?

At least you'll be in queue & can file for another new L1A (another 7 years) or new H1B after staying outside USA for an year.