The L1 visa is designed for intra-company transferees.
It allows international companies to transfer employees to their U.S. offices for a specific period.
Types of L1 Visas: L1A and L1B
There are two types of L1 visas: L1A and L1B.
The L1A visa is for managers and executives, while the L1B visa is for employees with specialized knowledge.
L1 Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for an L1 visa, certain criteria must be met.
These include employment requirements and a qualifying relationship between the sponsoring company and the U.S. company.
Employment Requirements
The applicant must have worked for the sponsoring company for at least one continuous year within the past three years.
This employment must have been in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.
Qualifying Relationship Between Companies
The sponsoring company must have a qualifying relationship with a U.S. company.
This could be a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate relationship.
Application Process and Documentation
The L1 visa application process involves several steps.
These include filing Form I-129 and providing a letter from the employer.
Steps to Apply for an L1 Visa
- Complete and submit Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
- Provide a detailed letter from your employer outlining your role and qualifications.
Family Members and L2 Visas
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age can accompany the L1 visa holder to the U.S. on an L2 visa.
Transitioning to Permanent Residency
L1 visa holders can apply for permanent residency (green card) without jeopardizing their L1 status.
