H1 Petition Valid for more than 6 year

[karvind]

Hi,

I have transfered my Visa Status from L1 to H1. My total stay (including L1 and H1) will complete six year in Sep 2007. But my H1 Petition and I-94 is valid till Oct 2008. I have my I-140 approved.
With similar case ( for my collegue), INS has refused the extension saying that he has to apply for extension 6 month before the petition expire date.

Please advice, if it is mandatory to apply for H1 extension after 6 year clock complete or we can wait for 6 month before the petition expire date?

Thanks
ak