H1 B Visa Stamping wait time in Pakistan

[cooldude821]

Hi All,

 

I have H1 B visa renewal that got approved in Sept 2014 while I was in US. Haven't got the second H1-B (after renewal) stamped on my passport. I am recently planning to visit Pakistan in September for family matters. I understand, I will need to have my H1B visa stamped on passport in order to return US. 

 

Background: I got my H1B approved in year 2011 and got my first H1B stamped in Feb 2011. I came in US on my first H1B stamped in year 2014 and the company had it renewed in Sept 2014.

 

Additionally, my company is planning to covert my H1B to L1A and will be submitting the petition in August this year. I have a few questions below.

 

1. Does anyone know what is the wait time for Visa stamping from Karachi consulate?

 

2. From different forums and this, I understand that the wait time can be for an year.It varies from case to case.Since my company will apply for L1A in August and I will travel to Pakistan in September, what if I get my L1A approved while waiting for H1B visa stamping in Pakistan. Would I have to again apply for stamping for L1A visa or I can travel to US on H1B (once it is stamped). My H1B is approved till year 2017

 

3. Do I need to be in US while my H1B->L1A petition is in progress?

 

4. What you guys suggest to me in terms of if it is ok to have my L1A filed in August or should I have it once I return to US. 

 

Any help or pointers to above questions will really help

 

Thanks,

SAB