L-1 Visa
The L-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to transfer employees from their foreign offices to their U.S. offices. It is designed for multinational companies seeking to bring key personnel to the United States to enhance their operations. There are two main categories of the L-1 Visa: L-1A for managers and executives and L-1B for employees with specialized knowledge.
Key Features of the L-1 Visa
By partnering with Glocal, you benefit from our extensive expertise in U.S. immigration law, ensuring a successful L-1 Visa process. Whether you are a company seeking to transfer key personnel or an employee looking to advance your career in the U.S., we are here to support your goals and facilitate a smooth transition.
Types of L-1 Visa
- L-1A Visa: This is for managers and executives who are being transferred to the U.S. to manage or oversee the operations of the U.S. office. It allows for a maximum stay of seven years.
- L-1B Visa: This is for employees with specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, research, or systems. It allows for a maximum stay of five years.
Eligibility Requirements
- Qualifying Relationship: The U.S. company must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign company, such as being a parent company, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
- Employment Duration: The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the three years preceding the application.
- Position Requirements: The employee must be coming to the U.S. to work in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.
Application Process
- Petition Filing: The U.S. employer must file Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to petition for the employee’s transfer.
- Supporting Documentation: The petition must include documentation proving the qualifying relationship, the employee’s eligibility, and the nature of the U.S. job.
- Consular Processing: Once approved, the employee can apply for an L-1 Visa at a U.S. consulate if outside the U.S. or change their status if already in the U.S.
Blanket L-1 Petitions
- Companies that frequently transfer employees may qualify for a blanket L-1 petition, which allows for faster processing and greater flexibility in transferring employees.
- With a blanket petition, individual employees can apply for their L-1 Visa directly at a U.S. consulate without needing a separate USCIS approval.
Dependents
- L-1 Visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the U.S. under the L-2 Visa category.
- L-2 Visa holders are eligible to apply for work authorization, allowing them to work in the U.S.
Dual Intent
- The L-1 Visa allows for dual intent, meaning visa holders can apply for a green card while maintaining their L-1 status.
- This feature makes the L-1 Visa an attractive option for employees seeking long-term residency in the U.S.
Benefits of the L-1 Visa
- Intra-Company Transfers: The L-1 Visa facilitates the transfer of key personnel within multinational companies, enhancing business operations and growth.
- No Cap: Unlike the H-1B Visa, the L-1 Visa is not subject to an annual cap, allowing for more flexibility in application timing.
Expert Guidance Ensuring Smooth Process
Glocal’s L-1 Visa Consulting Services
At Glocal, we offer comprehensive L-1 Visa consulting services to assist companies and employees in navigating the application process smoothly. Our services include:
Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate the qualifying relationship and employee eligibility to ensure compliance with L-1 Visa requirements.
Document Preparation and Filing
Our team assists with preparing and filing Form I-129 and all necessary supporting documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Blanket L-1 Petitions
We help companies apply for and manage blanket L-1 petitions, streamlining the transfer process for multiple employees.
Visa Interview Preparation
Our experts provide guidance and preparation for consular interviews, ensuring employees are well-prepared to address any questions or concerns.
Post-Approval Support
We continue to support our clients after visa approval, including assistance with extensions, renewals, and transition to permanent residency.