I-94 and L1-B blanket petition extension

[archanacl]

Hi,

My employer is processing my I-94 and L1B blanket petition extension which is going to expire on 13-jul-2011. The petition is filed last week and I am waiting to get the EAC number.

My question is, during the process of extension, is it not possible for me to leave US? My employer mentioned 'not to plan any short business/vacation travel outside US'. Does that mean I should not be going back to India until the USCIS approves/rejects the extension? What should I do if I need to go back and how it would affect the extension process?
Also please let me know how long it would take to know the USCIS decision.

Thanks in advance!!

Archana

[kabkaba]

If you travel while it is pending, it may be denied.

[rvisak]

what is the difference between a visa extension and a I-94 extension? Can the I-94 be extended just like that or are there any special circumstances? For instance, if I haven't used my entire period of 3 years; can I just get an I-94 extension?

[kabkaba]

I-94 is what determines legal stay in the US, it needs to be extended to stay beyond the previously issued I-94.
Visa in your passport only needs to be valid the day you travel to US. It needs to be extended if you are outside the US and wish to travel to US after it expires.
Petition is what gives the beneficiary a right to work for petitioner. It needs to be extended if it is expiring in order to work.