L1 blanket visa questions

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Hi Experts,

I was on H1B visa until April (6.5 yrs) and came out to different country (not India) on a project. I am still working for same engineering company but an European branch. I have an approved I140, under EB2 category, with Apr 2011 PD.

Now my company is trying to bring me back on L1 blanket visa after almost one year outside US. I was hoping that it will reset my visa clock, allow my wife to work, and allow me to apply GC under EB1.

Please help me by answering the following questions:

1. Do I need to go to India to get my first time L1B stamped?

2. Can I apply L1b in advance but enter US only after my 1 year period ends? Which day decides my one year stay period? Is it the day I get L1 application/approval or the day I enter US?

Thanks in advance!