L1 Visa: A Pathway for Intracompany Transferees to the U.S.

The L1 visa helps professionals relocate to the United States for business opportunities.

Welcome to Oliveira Lawyers, your trusted partner in U.S. immigration services. If you’re looking to transfer an employee from your foreign office to a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in the United States, the L1 Visa is the ideal solution. Our team specializes in L1 Intracompany Transferee Visa services, helping companies and professionals navigate the complexities of the L1 Visa process smoothly and efficiently.

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What is the Intracompany Transferee (L1 Visa)?

The L1 Visa is a special non-immigrant visa designed for foreign nationals who are employed by a company with offices in both the United States and a foreign country. This visa allows the company to transfer employees from its foreign office to its U.S. office, either in a managerial role (L1A Visa) or in a specialized knowledge position (L1B Visa). The L1A Visa allows the employee to stay in the U.S. for up to 7 years, while the L1B Visa is valid for up to 5 years.

Following the transfer, L1 Visa holders may apply for an Adjustment of Status to become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), especially if they hold an L1A Visa, which can lead to a Green Card through the EB1C category.

Definition and Purpose of the L1 Visa

The L1 Visa is intended to facilitate the transfer of qualified employees within multinational companies to the United States, enabling the U.S. office to benefit from their managerial experience or specialized knowledge. This visa is specifically designed for professionals who have a key role in the company and will contribute significantly to U.S. operations. 

The primary purpose of the L1 Visa is to support the expansion of international companies by allowing the transfer of essential personnel to their U.S. operations. This visa enables businesses to expand their U.S. presence, develop new markets, and increase efficiency by utilizing the knowledge and leadership of their foreign employees. In addition, the L1 Visa provides a path to permanent residency for eligible employees, especially those holding L1A visas in managerial or executive roles.

Eligibility Criteria for the L1 Visa Petitioner and Beneficiary

To qualify for an L1 Visa, both the U.S. employer (petitioner) and the foreign employee (beneficiary) must meet specific eligibility requirements:

U.S. Employer (Petitioner) Requirements

1. Qualifying Relationship:
   The U.S. company must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign company. This can be in the form of a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch. This means that the companies are part of the same corporate structure and engaged in business together.

2. Active Operations:
   Both the U.S. and foreign companies must be actively conducting business. This requires that they are offering goods or services on an ongoing basis and not just established for the purpose of the visa petition.

3. Establishment of New U.S. Office (for new office L1 applications):
   If the U.S. company is a new office, it must demonstrate the ability to support a managerial or executive position within one year. The company needs to show that it has secured a physical office space and has a business plan to grow the new office.

Foreign Employee (Beneficiary) Requirements

1. Continuous Employment:
   The foreign employee must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year in the past three years before applying for the L1 Visa. This employment should be in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position.

2. Qualifying Position:

   • L1A (Managers and Executives):
     The foreign employee must hold a managerial or executive role, overseeing either the entire organization, a department, or a major function of the business. The employee must be responsible for directing the work of others and making key decisions.
   • L1B (Specialized Knowledge Employees):
     The foreign employee must possess specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, research, equipment, techniques, management, or other areas of expertise that are not widely available in the U.S. labor market.

3. Intent to Return:
   For some L1B applicants, there may be a requirement to demonstrate an intent to return to the foreign office after completing their temporary assignment in the U.S.

Importance of Demonstrating the Employee’s Qualifications and Business Relationship

A crucial aspect of the L1 Visa application is proving that the employee meets the necessary qualifications for the position and that the relationship between the U.S. and foreign companies is genuine. USCIS requires substantial documentation to support these claims. This documentation can include:

Organizational Charts:
Detailed charts showing the structure of both the U.S. and foreign companies, highlighting the employee’s position in relation to others in the company.

Business Plans (for New Offices):
A robust business plan outlining the financial and operational goals of the U.S. office, as well as how the transferred employee will contribute to achieving these goals.

Job Descriptions:
Detailed descriptions of the employee’s role, duties, and responsibilities at both the U.S. and foreign offices, proving they qualify as a manager, executive, or specialized knowledge worker.

Corporate Documents:
Legal documents proving the corporate relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities, such as articles of incorporation, shareholder agreements, or financial reports.

Supporting Evidence for the L1 Visa Application

To strengthen the L1 Visa application, providing comprehensive supporting evidence is essential. USCIS looks for well-documented proof that the foreign employee qualifies under the specific category applied for (L1A or L1B). Evidence can include:

Employment Records:
Documentation such as offer letters, employment contracts, and payroll records to prove the employee has been working in the foreign office for the required period.

Company Financial Records:
Financial reports, tax filings, and profit and loss statements from both the U.S. and foreign companies to demonstrate ongoing business operations.

Management Hierarchy:
For L1A applicants, provide evidence that the employee is in a managerial or executive position, such as:

• Organizational charts
• Letters from supervisors or directors
• Descriptions of projects managed and decisions made by the employee

Specialized Knowledge Proof (L1B):
For L1B applicants, show how the employee’s knowledge is unique and essential to the company by submitting:

• Letters from experts in the field
• Proprietary research, patents, or other documents showing the employee’s contributions to the company’s processes or products.

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Benefits of an Intracompany Transferee (L1 Visa)

Obtaining an Intracompany Transferee Visa (L1 Visa) offers numerous advantages for multinational companies and their employees. This visa is specifically designed to facilitate the transfer of key employees from foreign offices to U.S. branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates. Here are the key benefits of the L1 Visa:

Rights and Privileges of L1 Visa Holders
The L1 Visa is highly valued by companies and professionals due to its unique advantages:

Entry to the United States: The primary benefit of the L1 Visa is that it allows foreign employees to legally enter and work in the U.S. The visa is granted for an initial period, during which the employee can perform their assigned managerial or specialized knowledge role.

Pathway to Permanent Residency: L1 Visa holders, particularly those under the L1A (managers and executives) category, have a clear pathway to permanent residency (Green Card) without requiring labor certification.

Dual Intent: L1 Visa holders are not required to prove that they intend to return to their home country. This dual intent allows L1 Visa holders to apply for a Green Card while still holding the visa.

Pathway to Permanent Residency (Green Card) After Employment:

The L1 Visa provides a clear path for L1A visa holders to obtain a Green Card through the EB-1C category (Multinational Manager or Executive), and L1B holders may also qualify for other employment-based Green Card categories. Here’s how it works:

Work in the U.S. on an L1 Visa: The employee works for the U.S. office for a qualifying period.

Green Card Application: L1A Visa holders can apply for a Green Card under the EB-1C (Multinational Executive or Manager) category without needing a labor certification.

Adjustment of Status: Once the employee has filed the application for permanent residency (Form I-485), they can continue working and living in the U.S. while awaiting Green Card approval.

Work Authorization for L1 Visa Holders

One of the significant advantages of the L1 Visa is the ability to work in the U.S. immediately upon entry. Here’s what you need to know:

L1 Visa Work Eligibility: Upon receiving the L1 Visa, the visa holder can start working for the U.S. office immediately, based on their managerial role (L1A) or specialized knowledge (L1B).

Spouse Work Authorization: Spouses of L1 Visa holders, who enter the U.S. under the L2 Visa, can apply for work authorization by filing Form I-765 (Employment Authorization Document). This allows them to legally work in the U.S.

Work Duration: The L1 Visa is typically valid for an initial period of 1 to 3 years and can be extended up to 7 years for L1A visa holders and 5 years for L1B visa holders.

Intracompany Transferee (L1 Visa) Requirements

Understanding the requirements for an L1 Visa is crucial for a successful application. Both the U.S. company and the foreign employee must meet specific criteria and provide substantial documentation. This section details the key requirements for the U.S. employer and the foreign employee:

Detailed List of Requirements for the U.S. Employer (Petitioner)

• Must have a qualifying relationship with a foreign entity. The U.S. employer must have a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch office relationship with a foreign company.
• Must be actively doing business in both the U.S. and abroad. The company must engage in regular, systematic, and continuous business in the United States and other countries.
• Must transfer an employee who qualifies as a manager, executive, or specialized knowledge employee. The L1 Visa is specifically for intra-company transfers of employees with specialized roles.
• New office setup requires a detailed business plan. If the L1 Visa is for opening a new office in the U.S., the employer must present evidence of a lease, staffing plans, and financial projections.
• Proof of ability to support the L1 employee. Documentation must show that the company has the financial capacity to pay the L1 employee and support their role in the U.S.

Detailed List of Requirements for the U.S. Employer (Petitioner)

• Must have worked for a foreign employer for at least one year. The employee must have been employed by the qualifying foreign company for at least 12 months in the past three years.
• Must hold a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position. The applicant’s role must meet the criteria for an executive, manager, or specialized knowledge worker as defined by USCIS.
• Must demonstrate intent to work in a qualifying role in the U.S. Evidence must show that the employee will be placed in a similar capacity for the U.S. entity.
• New office transfers require a valid plan for continued employment. If assigned to a new office in the U.S., the employee’s role and future responsibilities must be clearly outlined.
• No inadmissibility due to criminal history or immigration violations. The applicant must pass background checks and meet all immigration admissibility criteria.

Necessary Documentation

To support an L1 Visa application, several documents are required to prove the eligibility of both the employer and the employee. Here is a comprehensive list:

Form I-129:
The U.S. employer must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, to initiate the L1 Visa process.

Proof of a Qualifying Relationship:
Documentation such as business registration, financial statements, or organizational charts must demonstrate the relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities.

Proof of Ongoing Business Operations:
Tax returns, bank statements, or contracts showing the company’s operations in both countries.

Lease Agreement (for New Offices):
If establishing a new office, the lease agreement for the U.S. location must be included.

Employment Verification Letter:
A letter from the foreign employer confirming the employee’s role, duration of employment, and salary details.

Resume and Job Description:
The employee must provide a detailed resume and description of their role in both foreign and U.S. companies.

Organizational Chart:
An organizational chart showing the employee’s position within the company hierarchy.

Financial Statements or Bank Letters:
Documents showing the U.S. employer’s financial capacity to support the L1 employee.

Payroll Records (if already employed in the U.S.):
If the employee has already started work in the U.S., payroll documentation must be provided.

Medical Examination and Background Check Requirements

Some L1 Visa applicants may be subject to medical examinations and background checks, especially in certain cases where long-term stays are involved. Here is what to expect:

Medical Examination (if applicable)

Review of Medical History and Vaccination Records:
The applicant may need to present medical records confirming vaccinations required by U.S. law.

Tests for Communicable Diseases:
A tuberculosis test and other necessary medical assessments may be required depending on the country of origin.

Criminal Background Check:
The applicant may need to submit police certificates from their country of residence and any other countries where they have lived for more than six months since the age of 16.

L1 Visa Renewal and Compliance Requirements

Employees holding an L1 Visa must ensure they remain compliant with visa rules to continue their stay in the U.S.:

Extension Applications: L1 Visa holders must apply for extensions through Form I-129 before their visa expires.

Compliance with U.S. Employment Laws: The U.S. employer must adhere to local labor laws and provide fair wages and working conditions.

Change in Job Role or Employer: Any change in the employee’s job role or transfer to another U.S. office must be reported to USCIS.

Providing all required documentation and meeting eligibility criteria will significantly improve your chances of a successful L1 Visa application. Regular communication with an immigration attorney can help navigate the complexities of the L1 Visa process.

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L1 Visa Application Process

Navigating the L1 Visa application process can be complex, but understanding each step ensures smoother processing. This section provides a detailed overview of the L1 Visa application, ensuring all requirements are met.

Step-by-Step Guide to the L1 Visa Application Process

1. Filing the I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker

• Complete Form I-129: The U.S. employer must fill out and sign Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This petition establishes the employee’s eligibility to work in the U.S. under the L1 category.
• Gather Supporting Documents: Include supporting documents such as evidence of a qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities, the employee’s job description, and proof of employment.
• Submit the Petition: Submit the completed I-129 petition along with the L Supplement and required filing fees to the appropriate USCIS service center.

2. Approval from USCIS

• Notice of Receipt: After submission, USCIS sends a Notice of Receipt (Form I-797C) confirming the petition has been received.
• Processing Time: USCIS reviews the petition, which may take several months. Requests for additional information (RFEs) may be issued during this time.
• Notice of Approval: If the petition is approved, USCIS sends a Notice of Approval (Form I-797). The petition is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.

3. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

• Case Number Assignment: The NVC assigns a case number and forwards the approved petition to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the employee’s home country.
• Document Submission: The NVC may request additional documentation, which must be submitted promptly to avoid delays.

4. Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate

• Schedule the Interview: The employee must schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• Medical Examination: If required, the applicant must undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician.
• Prepare Documents: Bring all required documents to the interview, including the approved I-129 petition, valid passport, and employment offer letter.
• Attend the Interview: During the interview, the consular officer will review the application and ask questions to verify eligibility for the L1 Visa. If approved, the visa will be issued.

5. Entry to the U.S. and Employment Requirements

• Travel to the U.S.: With the approved L1 Visa, the employee can enter the United States and begin working for the U.S. employer.
• Start of Employment: The employee must start working within the visa’s validity period and in the position specified in the petition.

6. Applying for L1 Visa Extensions or Status Changes

• File for Extension of Stay: If the employer needs to extend the employee’s stay, they must file an extension request with USCIS by submitting another Form I-129.
• Submit Supporting Documents: Include documents showing the continued need for the employee’s services and the company’s ongoing operations.
• Attend Biometrics Appointment: If required, the employee may need to attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background checks.
• Change of Status: If the employee or family members wish to change their immigration status, additional petitions may need to be filed with USCIS.

Timeline and Processing Times

The L1 Visa application process can vary based on the case and workload of the USCIS. Below is an estimated timeline:

• USCIS Processing: 2-4 months
• NVC Processing: 1-2 months
• Visa Interview and Approval: 1-2 months
• Total Time: 4-8 months (varies based on individual circumstances and current USCIS processing times)

By following these steps and ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete, you can navigate the L1 Visa application process more effectively.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Applying for an L1 Visa can be a complex and demanding process, often presenting applicants with several hurdles. Understanding these challenges and learning effective ways to address them will increase your chances of a successful application. This section highlights the common issues encountered during the L1 Visa process and provides practical solutions to overcome them.

Typical Issues Faced During the Application Process

1. Insufficient Evidence of Employer-Employee Relationship

Challenge: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires proof that the employee is genuinely being transferred between qualifying organizations, not hired solely for immigration purposes. Insufficient documentation may result in delays or denials.

Solution: Submit strong evidence, such as organizational charts, employment contracts, payroll records, and internal memos. Letters from both the U.S. and foreign offices explaining the employee’s role and responsibilities further support your application.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Challenge: Missing or improperly completed documents may delay your application or lead to rejection.

Solution: Use a checklist to ensure all forms and evidence are complete and correct. Pay close attention to the Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) and supporting documents. Professional legal assistance can help you review the application before submission to avoid errors.

3. Establishing a Qualifying Business Relationship

Challenge: The USCIS requires proof that both the U.S. and foreign entities share a qualifying relationship, such as a parent-subsidiary or affiliate relationship.

Solution: Provide corporate documents, such as articles of incorporation, financial statements, and business agreements, showing the relationship between the companies. Diagrams or flowcharts explaining the corporate structure can strengthen your petition.

4. Lengthy Processing Times

Challenge: USCIS processing times for L1 Visas can vary, leading to stress and potential business disruptions.

Solution: Monitor processing times through the USCIS website and submit a well-prepared, complete application to avoid delays. In urgent cases, consider Premium Processing, which ensures a response within 15 calendar days.

5. Visa Denials Due to Specialized Knowledge Criteria

Challenge: L1B applicants, especially, must demonstrate specialized knowledge about the company’s products, services, or procedures. Inadequate proof often results in denials.

Solution: Include training certificates, work experience documentation, and detailed descriptions of the employee’s specialized skills. Provide examples of projects the employee has completed that highlight their expertise.

Tips for Strengthening Your L1 Visa Application

1. Organizational Charts and Employment Records

Submit clear organizational charts showing the employee’s position in both the U.S. and foreign companies. Employment records and contracts that detail job duties further confirm the legitimacy of the transfer.

2. Letters of Support

Include letters from senior management from both the U.S. and foreign entities explaining the need for the transfer and the employee’s role. These letters should outline the employee’s importance to the business.

3. Documentation of Business Relationship

Provide articles of incorporation, meeting minutes, and tax filings to demonstrate the connection between the U.S. and foreign entities. This establishes the required qualifying business relationship.

4. Financial Documentation

Attach financial records from both entities to show the operational capacity to support the transferred employee. Documents such as bank statements, payroll reports, and tax returns are essential to support the case.

5. Specialized Knowledge Evidence (for L1B Visas)

Offer training materials, internal documents, project reports, and technical descriptions that emphasize the employee’s specialized knowledge. Show how this knowledge is essential to the company’s U.S. operations.

Addressing Financial Requirements and Maintaining Compliance

1. Employer Financial Capacity

Provide financial statements, tax returns, and payroll documents to demonstrate the company’s ability to pay the employee’s salary. This is essential to ensure compliance with USCIS requirements.

2. Meeting Regulatory Compliance

Ensure that the foreign and U.S. entities comply with immigration and employment regulations. Regular audits and reviews of policies can prevent non-compliance issues from affecting the visa status.

3. Use of Premium Processing

To avoid operational delays, companies can opt for Premium Processing. This service ensures faster adjudication, helping businesses plan and respond efficiently to visa decisions.

By preparing for these challenges and taking the necessary steps to address them proactively, applicants and employers can significantly improve the chances of a successful L1 Visa application. Whether it involves gathering strong evidence of a qualifying relationship, providing specialized knowledge documentation, or ensuring compliance with financial requirements, a well-prepared application minimizes delays and enhances the likelihood of approval.

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Post-Arrival Steps for L1 Visa Holders

Once your application for the L1 Visa is approved, several important steps need to be followed to ensure a smooth transition for you and your family in the United States. This guide outlines key actions required for compliance with immigration rules, obtaining work authorization, securing a Social Security Number (SSN), and applying for dependent benefits. Understanding these post-approval steps is crucial for maintaining legal status and achieving long-term career goals in the U.S.

Initial Entry to the U.S. with L1 Visa

1. Entering the U.S.

Requirement: An L1 Visa holder must enter the U.S. within the visa validity period. At the port of entry, you will need to present your visa, passport, and supporting documentation to the Customs and Border

Documentation: Keep copies of your L1 approval notice (Form I-797), your employment letter, and company transfer documentation accessible.

2. Port of Entry Inspection

Interview: CBP officers may ask questions about your employment, job duties, and sponsoring employer to verify your eligibility.

I-94 Form: Upon entry, you will receive an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, indicating the duration of your authorized stay. Verify the accuracy of the information on this form immediately.

Work Authorization and Employment Setup

3. Begin Work with a U.S. Employer

Start Date: Confirm your work start date with your employer, ensuring it aligns with the terms of your visa.

Employment Compliance: Ensure that the job duties match the description in your visa petition to avoid compliance issues during potential inspections or audits.

4. Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification)

Required Documents: Present your L1 Visa, passport, and I-94 record to your employer to complete the Form I-9.

Compliance: Your employer will need to maintain I-9 documentation for audit purposes.

Obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN)

5. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)

Visit the Social Security Office: Go to your local Social Security office soon after arrival to apply for your SSN.

Required Documents: Bring your L1 Visa, passport, I-94 form, and proof of employment.

Purpose: An SSN is essential for legal employment, tax filing, and opening financial accounts in the U.S.

Dependent Family Members (L2 Visa Holders)

6. Work Authorization for Dependents

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): L2 visa holders (spouses) can apply for work authorization by filing Form I-765.

Application Process: The L2 visa holder can submit the EAD application upon arrival or after obtaining their SSN.

Duration: The EAD typically aligns with the L1 visa’s validity period and can be renewed as necessary.

7. School Enrollment for Children

K-12 Education: Children of L1 holders can enroll in public schools without additional permits.

Required Documents: School districts may require proof of residence, vaccination records, and visa information for enrollment.

Maintaining Legal Status

8. Compliance with Visa Terms

Authorized Stay: Monitor the expiration date on your I-94 form to ensure you remain in the U.S. legally.

Travel Considerations: If traveling internationally, ensure that your L1 Visa is valid for reentry. Carry employment verification documents when returning to the U.S.

9. Extensions and Renewals

Filing for Extension: If your assignment extends beyond your visa validity, your employer must file Form I-129 for an extension before the visa expires.

Adjustment of Status: If your employer offers permanent residency sponsorship, you may transition from an L1 Visa to a Green Card by filing Form I-485.

Managing Taxes and Financial Accounts

10. Tax Compliance

Tax Obligations: L1 Visa holders are generally required to file U.S. taxes. Consult a tax advisor to understand your responsibilities.

ITIN for Dependents: If your dependents don’t qualify for an SSN, apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) through the IRS.

11. Opening Bank Accounts

Documents Required: Use your SSN, visa, passport, and proof of residence to open bank accounts.

Credit History: Building credit history early will help with financial transactions, such as applying for loans or credit cards.

L1 Visa Expiry and Departure Planning

12. Grace Period and Departure

60-Day Grace Period: If your employment ends before the visa expiration, you typically have 60 days to either transfer to another status or leave the U.S.

Exit Documentation: Upon leaving the U.S., return the I-94 form (if issued in physical format) to ensure a clean immigration record.

By following these post-approval steps, L1 Visa holders and their families can effectively transition to life in the United States while ensuring compliance with immigration laws. Staying organized with your documentation, understanding your visa responsibilities, and planning for potential extensions will help you avoid complications and focus on achieving your career and personal goals.

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Testimonials

Hearing from our clients who successfully navigated the L1 Visa process helps inspire others considering this pathway. Below are real stories that demonstrate our dedication to exceptional service and the positive outcomes we aim to achieve.

Real Success Stories

James and GlobalTech Inc.
James, an executive at GlobalTech Inc., needed to transfer to their U.S. office to manage the company’s expanding operations. The L1A Visa was the perfect fit for his situation.

“I was overwhelmed with the paperwork and didn’t know where to start, but Oliveira Lawyers made the process simple. They took care of every detail, ensuring that my company and I met all the necessary requirements. I was granted the L1A Visa, and now I’m leading GlobalTech’s new U.S. branch. Their support has been incredible!”

Laura and SoftSolve Ltd.
Laura, a specialized IT expert, was transferred from SoftSolve Ltd. to their U.S. office under the L1B Visa.

“The team at Oliveira Lawyers helped me get my L1B Visa quickly and efficiently. They guided me through the process step-by-step, making sure all my documents were in order. I am now happily working in the U.S. and would recommend Oliveira Lawyers to anyone looking to navigate the L1 Visa process!”

Robert and MedEquip Corp.
Robert, a senior manager at MedEquip Corp., needed to establish a new U.S. office. He turned to Oliveira Lawyers to assist with the L1A Visa application.

“Starting a new office in the U.S. seemed daunting, but Oliveira Lawyers made everything so much easier. From helping me with the L1A Visa to advising on the business plan, their expertise made the entire process stress-free. I was able to move to the U.S. and set up our operations smoothly. Thank you for your continued support!”

How Our Services Make a Difference

Our team of experienced immigration attorneys and consultants provides expert guidance throughout the entire L1 Visa process. From the initial consultation to the visa approval, we ensure every detail is handled efficiently.

Our high success rate demonstrates our commitment to excellence. We have helped numerous businesses and professionals secure L1 Visas, enabling them to grow their operations and careers in the United States.

Contact Us for Your L1 Visa Needs

If you are considering applying for an L1 Visa, let us help you make your business expansion or career move a reality. Contact Oliveira Lawyers today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a successful L1 Visa application.

Why Choose Our Services for Your L1 Visa Needs?

Selecting the right immigration service provider is essential for a seamless and successful L1 Visa application. At Oliveira Lawyers, we take pride in offering unparalleled expertise, personalized support, and a proven record of success. Here’s why you should choose us for your L1 Visa journey:

Expertise in L1 Visa Applications

Specialized Knowledge

Our team of experienced immigration attorneys and consultants specializes in L1 Visa applications. We stay up-to-date with the latest immigration policies and requirements to provide you with precise and effective guidance.

Comprehensive Services

We offer end-to-end services, including initial consultation, eligibility assessment, document preparation, and submission. Our all-inclusive approach ensures that every step of your application is managed thoroughly.

Personalized Support

We recognize that each case is unique. Our personalized approach ensures that we understand your specific situation, answer your questions, and provide customized solutions to meet your needs.

Dedicated Case Manager

Each client is assigned a dedicated case manager who will assist you throughout the entire process. Your case manager will serve as your main point of contact, ensuring timely communication and consistent support.

Proven Track Record

High Success Rate

Our high success rate speaks volumes. We have helped numerous businesses and individuals successfully navigate the L1 Visa process, securing their future in the United States.

Transparent Pricing Structure

We offer clear and straightforward pricing, with no hidden fees. Our goal is to provide top-quality services at competitive rates, ensuring the best value for your investment.

Commitment to Your Success

We are committed to providing proactive communication and keeping you informed throughout the application process. You can expect regular updates and timely responses to all your inquiries.

Post-Approval Support

Our services extend beyond visa approval. We offer continued assistance with the necessary steps to transition to permanent residency or other immigration needs, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Choosing Oliveira Lawyers for your L1 Visa needs means partnering with a team dedicated to your success. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward expanding your business or career in the United States. Your reliable immigration partner is just a click away.

L1 Visa in the US
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an L1 Visa and how does it work?

The L1 Visa allows a U.S.-based company to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from an affiliated foreign office to the U.S. The visa is divided into two categories:

• L1-A Visa: For executives or managers.
• L1-B Visa: For employees with specialized knowledge.

This visa facilitates multinational companies to operate efficiently by relocating essential employees to the U.S. for temporary assignments. The L1 Visa can also lead to permanent residency through the employment-based Green Card process.

2. Who is eligible for an L1 Visa?

To qualify for an L1 Visa, both the employee and the employer must meet certain requirements:

Employee requirements:

• Must have worked for the foreign office for at least one continuous year within the past three years.
• Should be transferred to the U.S. office in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.

Employer requirements:

• The U.S. and foreign entities must share a qualifying relationship (parent company, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary).
• The U.S. office must actively conduct business throughout the visa duration.

3. How long is the L1 Visa valid?

The initial validity period of the L1 Visa depends on the type of transfer and country of origin:

• L1-A Visa: Up to 1 year for new offices, renewable for up to 7 years.
• L1-B Visa: Typically granted for 3 years, renewable for up to 5 years.

Extensions require evidence of continued eligibility, such as operational growth and ongoing need for the employee in the designated role.

4. What are the benefits of the L1 Visa compared to other work visas?

No annual cap: Unlike the H-1B visa, the L1 Visa does not have a quota.

• Spouse can work: L1 visa holders’ spouses (L2 visa holders) can apply for work authorization.
• Pathway to a Green Card: L1-A visa holders may qualify for an EB-1 Green Card without going through the labor certification process.

5. What documents are required for the L1 Visa application?

Key documents include:

• Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
• Letter from employer: Confirming the transfer and role details.
• Evidence of qualifying relationship between U.S. and foreign entities.
• Employment records showing the applicant’s work history.
• Proof of operational business for both the U.S. and foreign offices.

6. How long does it take to get an L1 Visa?

L1 Visa processing time varies but typically takes between 1 to 4 months. For faster processing, premium processing is available for an additional fee, reducing the wait time to 15 calendar days.

7. What are the common reasons for L1 Visa denial?

Common denial reasons include:

• Insufficient documentation proving the qualifying relationship between offices.
• Lack of specialized knowledge or unclear managerial duties.
• Failure to establish that the U.S. office is actively doing business.

An immigration attorney can help ensure your petition is complete and strong, minimizing the chances of denial.

8. How much does it cost to apply for an L1 Visa?

The total cost for an L1 Visa includes:

• USCIS Form I-129 filing fee: $460
• Fraud prevention and detection fee: $500
• Premium processing (optional): $2,500
• Attorney fees (if applicable): Between $2,000 and $7,000 depending on case complexity.

Additional costs may include medical exams and document translation fees.

9. Can my spouse and children join me on an L1 Visa?

Yes, your spouse and children under 21 are eligible to accompany you on L2 Visas. Spouses can apply for work authorization and are allowed to work throughout the visa duration. However, children on L2 Visas cannot work but can attend school.

10. What are the common mistakes in the L1 Visa application, and how can I avoid them?

Mistakes to avoid include:

• Inaccurate job descriptions that don’t align with L1 Visa requirements.
• Incomplete documentation proving business relationships.
• Missing deadlines for filing or extensions.

An experienced immigration attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls by ensuring that your application meets all the requirements from the start.

11. Why should I hire an immigration attorney to assist with the L1 Visa process?

Hiring an attorney can greatly increase your chances of approval by:

• Ensuring all documents are properly prepared and submitted.
• Providing guidance on the visa interview process.
• Avoiding costly mistakes that could delay or deny your visa application.

Immigration law can be complicated. An attorney ensures that you navigate the process smoothly, saving time and stress while increasing your odds of approval.