L1B to L1A Change of Status Query

[domino007]

I am currently in the US for the past 4 years with I-94 validity till Jul 2015 (L1B visa already expired).   I have requested my employer to apply for conversion to L1A - as I recently got promoted as manager & am handling large team now.  

 

However I have been informed that for change of status, I need to have 1 year of managerial experience outside the US (prior to my first entry in the US with L1B visa).  As I don't have it - I have been told that only a fresh L1A will be possible but a conversion is not.

 

Please advise.