L-1 Intracompany Transferee
Transfer executives, managers, and specialized knowledge employees from foreign affiliates to U.S. operations, with a clear pathway to permanent residency.
The L-1 visa facilitates the transfer of key personnel within multinational organizations. L-1A is designated for executives and managers, while L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge of the company's products, services, or procedures. This category is particularly valuable for companies expanding into the U.S. market or establishing new offices. L-1A holders may also qualify for EB-1C immigrant visa processing, providing an expedited green card path.
Petition Preparation
2-4 weeks
USCIS Processing
15 days (premium) or 3-6 months
Consular Processing
2-8 weeks
L-1A Maximum Stay
7 years
L-1B Maximum Stay
5 years
Eligibility Requirements
Employment with a qualifying multinational organization (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch relationship)
At least one continuous year of employment abroad in the three years preceding the transfer
Coming to the U.S. in an executive, managerial (L-1A), or specialized knowledge (L-1B) capacity
U.S. entity must be doing business or, for new offices, have secured premises and sufficient funding
Qualifying relationship between foreign and U.S. entities must be maintained
How We Work Together
Corporate Structure Analysis
Review of the multinational relationship and qualifying affiliate/subsidiary/parent connections.
Position Assessment
Detailed analysis of the role to establish executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge qualifications.
I-129 Petition Preparation
Comprehensive petition with organizational charts, position descriptions, and supporting corporate documentation.
USCIS Adjudication
Filing with premium processing option available for expedited review (15 calendar days).
Consular Processing or Change of Status
Visa issuance at consulate or adjustment if already in the U.S. with valid status.
Extensions & Green Card Planning
L-1A holders may be eligible for EB-1C immigrant category without labor certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as an "executive" or "manager" for L-1A?+
Executives direct management and establish goals/policies. Managers supervise professional staff or manage an essential function. Detailed position descriptions are critical to establishing eligibility.
Can a company open a new U.S. office with L-1?+
Yes. "New office" L-1 petitions are available for companies establishing U.S. presence. Initial approval is typically for one year, with extensions upon demonstrating business development.
What is "specialized knowledge"?+
Knowledge of the organization's products, services, research, equipment, techniques, or management that is distinct from industry knowledge generally available.
Is there a blanket L-1 program?+
Yes. Qualifying multinational organizations may obtain blanket L-1 approval, streamlining the transfer process for individual employees.
Does L-1 lead to a green card?+
L-1A executives and managers may qualify for EB-1C immigrant petitions, which do not require labor certification. This is often the fastest employer-sponsored path to permanent residency.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
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This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.