L-1Timeline: 2-6 weeks with premium processing

Intracompany Transfer Visa

The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer managers, executives, and specialized knowledge workers from foreign offices to the United States. It comes in two flavors: L-1A for managers and executives (up to 7 years) and L-1B for specialized knowledge workers (up to 5 years). No lottery, no degree requirement, and a direct path to a green card for L-1A holders.

How we approach the L-1

We evaluate your career history and accomplishments with you to create a unique narrative that captures your achievements, and document them in a way that the government can understand.

Requirements & Criteria
(in plain english)

We're looking for 3 or more of the following accomplishments. Most people don't know what counts and assume the bar is higher than it really is. A consultation can help you understand which criteria you meet, or could meet with some work:

01You have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 continuous year in the last 3 years
02The U.S. and foreign entities have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch)
03You served in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity abroad
04You will serve in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity in the U.S.
05The U.S. entity is doing business or will be doing business during your stay
06For new offices: a business plan showing the need for the transferee
07Evidence of the qualifying corporate relationship between entities
08Proof of your employment history and role at the foreign entity

L-1 Visa Overview

L-1A: up to 7 years; L-1B: up to 5 years
No lottery or annual cap
No degree requirement
L-1A leads directly to EB-1C green card
Processing Time
2-6 weeks with premium processing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions

What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?
L-1A is for managers and executives with a maximum stay of 7 years and a direct path to an EB-1C green card. L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge unique to the company, with a maximum stay of 5 years.
Can I use the L-1 to open a new U.S. office?
Yes. The L-1 "new office" provision is specifically designed for companies expanding to the U.S. The initial petition is granted for 1 year, after which you can extend by showing the office is operational and generating revenue.
Does the L-1 require a minimum salary?
Unlike the H-1B, there is no prevailing wage requirement for the L-1. However, the salary should be reasonable for the role and consistent with the company's compensation practices.
Can my spouse work on an L-1?
Yes. L-2 dependent spouses receive automatic work authorization and can work for any U.S. employer. They receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as part of their L-2 approval.
How is "specialized knowledge" defined?
Specialized knowledge means knowledge of the company's products, services, research, equipment, techniques, or management that is not easily transferable or readily available in the U.S. labor market. USCIS scrutinizes L-1B petitions closely, so strong evidence is critical.

Ready to begin?

Tell us about your situation and we'll map out the best path forward. Most consultations happen within 48 hours.

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