Emergency travel with less than a month remaining on my I-94

[gautamr1]

I-94 on my L1B visa expires in early April and L1B visa itself expires mid April. I need to travel to India urgently for 2-3 weeks.

Questions –

1. Will I be allowed to enter the US with less than a month remaining on my L1 visa?
2. Should I have my extension required filed before leaving the US OR should I have it filed after I return (assuming I am allowed to re-enter)?
3. Should I request for normal or premium processing in both the scenarios a. filing before leaving the US b. filing after returning to the US?

Any pointers will be appreciated.
Thanks!

[Libra_14]

1. Will I be allowed to enter the US with less than a month remaining on my L1 visa?

Yes, you are allowed till the last day of your visa validity - but you need to have a valid petition at the date of your entry.

2. Should I have my extension required filed before leaving the US OR should I have it filed after I return (assuming I am allowed to re-enter)?

Once you leave USA, your I94 will be gone. You can file your petition extension before you leave.
But once you return you will be issued a new I94 - which will match your petition expiry at that time. And you might need to file for extension again.

3. Should I request for normal or premium processing in both the scenarios a. filing before leaving the US b. filing after returning to the US?[/FONT]

To be on safer side, I would suggest to get your petition renewed before you leave under premium & get a new visa stamped in India & return.