L-1 Visa
An L-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the U.S. temporarily.It’s designed for intra-company transfers, strengthening the business operations between a company’s international and U.S. offices.
There are two main categories of L-1 visas:
L-1A:This category is for managers and executives who are either transferring to a U.S. office or coming to the U.S. to establish a new office.
L-1B:This category is for specialized knowledge workers who possess specialized knowledge essential to the company’s business operations.
Key points to remember
- Eligibility: The U.S. company must be a branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate of the foreign company.The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year within the past three years.
- Duration: The initial stay for L-1A visa holders is typically 7 years, while for L-1B visa holders, it’s usually 5 years. Extensions are possible.
- Green Card Path: L-1 visa holders can eventually apply for a green card, which would allow them to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- Benefits: L-1 visas offer a pathway to work in the U.S., potentially leading to a green card, and can be a valuable tool for multinational companies to transfer key personnel.
It’s important to note that the L-1 visa process can be complex, and it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to ensure compliance with all requirements and to maximize your chances of a successful application.
Frequently Asked Questions
An L-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the U.S. temporarily.
- L-1A: For managers and executives.
- L-1B: For specialized knowledge workers.
- The U.S. company must be a branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate of the foreign company.
- The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year within the past three years
- The employee must be coming to the U.S. to work in a managerial or specialized knowledge capacity.
The initial stay for L-1A visa holders is typically 7 years, while for L-1B visa holders, it's usually 5 years. Extensions are possible.
Yes, L-1 visa holders can eventually apply for a green card, which would allow them to live and work permanently in the U.S.