L1 B to H1 B conversion

[praneeth_murthy]

I am currently on L1-B visa from a company A. My L1B is valid until Jan, 2014. I am looking for a change to H1b visa this year (Want to Apply for H1b in Apr,2013). I might have to go to India anytime this year. I want to understand the complications involved in my India Visit.

Can someone help me understand the below questions (Assuming I have applied for H1 B in Apr 1st week):

1) While my H1 is being processed can I go to India (Before October 1st -for 20 days) and come back to US using L1B ?

2) Once my H1 is approved Can I go to India (Before October 1st -for 20 days) and come back to US using L1B ?

3) If I go to India - Should I appear for H1 Interview in consulate ????

Your help would be appreciated.

[gvenkatesan]

Yes. You can travel back to US as L1B is valid until Jan, 2014. Once your L1B is expired, you need to have H1B stamping done in India before reentering US.

[Attorney_25]

If you enter on the L-1 visa you must be entering to work in the L-1 job, in each case.