The L-1 Visa Overview
Get expert guidance and full application support for intracompany transferees looking to work in the U.S.
What is the L-1 Visa?
The L-1 visa is a non-immigrant U.S. visa category designed for intracompany transferees. It allows multinational companies to transfer employees from their foreign offices to work in the U.S. temporarily.
Key Points:
- Allows companies to transfer managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge to U.S. offices.
- Helps maintain a global presence while overseeing projects, managing operations, and sharing expertise.
- Employees can work in the U.S. temporarily, with extensions available depending on visa type.
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L-1A vs. L-1B Visa
| L-1A Visa (Managers/Executives): | L-1B Visa (Specialized Knowledge): |
|---|---|
| For managers or executives transferred to a U.S. office of the same multinational company. | For employees with specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, technology, or procedures. |
| Typically involves overseeing a significant portion of operations or managing a critical business function. | Knowledge must be advanced and not commonly possessed by other employees in the industry. |
L-1 Visa Eligibility
For the Employee (L-1 Applicant):
Employment with Qualify Organization
Must be employed by a multinational company with a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch) to the U.S. entity.
Position Qualification
- L-1A: Must work in a managerial or executive capacity.
- L-1B: Must have specialized knowledge.
One Year Employment
Must have worked continuously for at least one year in the last three years for the foreign company, outside the U.S.
For the Employer (Sponsor):
Qualifying Relationship
U.S. employers must have a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch relationship with the foreign company.
Active Business in the U.S.
Must have a physical office or operational plan for a new office.
Employment Offer
Must offer a valid position and be willing to file an L-1 petition with USCIS.
L-1 Visa Cost
- Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker)Filing Fee: $1385 (varies for smaller employers and nonprofits)
- Anti-Fraud Fee: $500 (may apply in certain cases)
- Premium Processing (optional): $2805 for expedited processing (15–45 calendar days)
L-1 Visa Timeline
- Standard Processing: Varies by USCIS service center, generally faster than other work visas.
- Premium Processing: Some applicants may opt for premium processing of their Form I-129 for an extra fee. If approved, USCIS typically completes the L-1 visa application within 15 to 45 calendar days.
- Check Processing Times: You can check the current processing times for L-1 visas at each specific USCIS service center.
L-1 Visa Application Process
From the Employer’s Side
- File Form I-129: Include job description, evidence of qualifying relationship, and proof of employee eligibility.
- Pay Required Fees: Include anti-fraud and premium processing fees if applicable.
From the Employee’s Side
- Complete DS-160 Form: Online nonimmigrant visa application.
- Pay Visa Application Fee: Required for the consular appointment.
- Schedule & Attend Visa Interview: Bring supporting documents such as passport, employment offer, and proof of eligibility.
After L-1 Visa Approval
Once your L-1 visa is approved, there are two main ways you may enter or start working in the U.S., depending on whether you are already in the country or applying from abroad.
Change of Status (Inside the U.S.)
- If you are already in the United States on a different visa, USCIS can approve a change of status to L-1.
- You are authorized to work immediately once the change is approved.
- USCIS issues Form I-94, which records your legal status and authorized period of stay.
- Travel outside the U.S. may require you to visit a U.S. consulate abroad to obtain a visa stamp before re-entry.
Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.)
- If you are outside the U.S., your approved visa is stamped in your passport at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- You can then travel to the United States and present your visa at the port of entry.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will create your I-94 record, which confirms your entry and authorized work period.
- You are authorized to work immediately upon arrival.
Additional Important Steps
- Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN): Required for employment, taxes, and banking in the U.S.
- Pay U.S. Taxes: All income earned in the U.S. is subject to federal and state taxes. Ensure you file taxes correctly to stay compliant with U.S. law.
- Maintain Documentation: Keep copies of your visa approval, I-94, and any employment letters, as they may be required for future visa extensions, green card applications, or employment verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
H-1B: For specialized skills, requires bachelor’s degree, allows employer change.
L-1: For intracompany transferees, requires one year with foreign company, tied to sponsoring employer.
L-1A: Up to 7 years (initial 3 years + extensions).
L-1B: Up to 5 years (initial 3 years + extensions).
Yes, through employment-based immigration, especially EB-1C for executives/managers.
Yes, L-2 spouses can apply for work authorization.
Yes, with a valid L-1 visa stamp or approved change of status.
No. L-1 visas are petition-based and tied to employer sponsorship.
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