The L1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from one of their foreign offices to a related U.S. office. It is commonly used by multinational companies to expand operations in the U.S.
To qualify for an L1 Visa, the applicant must have worked for the foreign parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of the U.S. company for at least one continuous year within the last three years. The individual must be transferring to the U.S. to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity.
There are two types of L1 Visas:
The initial stay on an L1 Visa is typically up to one year for new office setups and up to three years for existing offices. Extensions may be granted, with a maximum stay of seven years for L1A holders and five years for L1B holders.
Yes, immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can accompany the L1 Visa holder on an L2 Visa. Spouses may also apply for work authorization in the U.S.
Yes, L1 Visa holders can apply for a Green Card. L1A Visa holders often qualify for the EB-1C Green Card category, which does not require labor certification, making it a faster path to permanent residency.
Processing times vary, but it generally takes a few weeks to a few months. Premium Processing is available for an additional fee, which guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days.
American Immigration Lawyers Association
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