Need help in understanding the immigration laws

[ssatpath]

Hello,

Here are my details-

I am currently on L1B, which is expiring on 6th Oct 2012.

My i-94 is valid unti Jan 2015

I have applied for H1B. Got an RFE and sent the reply. Now its in RFE review stage.

So My question is If i don't get the H1B approval by 6th Oct, then

1.will I be able to work in US ?

2. Will I be able to stay in US (by taking a vacation from job) ?

I am really worried. Please let me know your suggesstions ASAP, so that If needed I can book my tickets or sell the household goods.

Thanks,

ssatpath

[JoeF]

The pending H1 application keeps you legal.

But you can not work once the L1 expires, and you can only start working for the H1 employer when the H1 is approved.

[kiran234]

Here are my details-

I am currently on L1B, which is expiring on 6th Oct 2012.

My i-94 is valid unti Jan 2015

when you say that L1B is expiring on 6th Oct 2012 ... is it the L1b VISA stamp in your passport?

As long as you have valid L1B status, you can stay and continue working with your L1B employer.

So please check your L1B expiration date and plan accordingly .

[luck2u]

@ssatpath:

As you mentioned that your L1B visa expires on 6th Oct'2012 but you have I-94 till Jan'2015. As per my understanding the I-94 you have till Jan'2015 is the one when you entered on L1B visa to USA. In this case you are legal to work on L1B after 6th Oct'2012 and before your H1B approval.

I have seen many of my ex-colleagues who worked on L1B for an MNC when they have I-94 for long time irrespective of visa expiry date and this has been confirmed by USCIS and Chennai Consulate in India.

But make sure once your H1B got approved, start working on H1B as you may be applied in COS.