L1 Visa: Types, Requirements, and Application Steps
The L1 Visa is an intra-company transferee visa that allows you to transfer from a foreign company to its US branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. This guide covers L1 visa types, requirements , application steps, and more to help you navigate the process.
L1 Visa Requirements
To be eligible for an L1 Visa , you must meet these criteria:
- Hold an executive or managerial position or have specialized knowledge
- Have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years.
- Have a transfer offer to a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role in the US company.
- Be a full-time employee abroad, though you can work part-time in the US.
- The foreign company must have a subsidiary, branch, affiliate, or parent company in the US.
Types of L1 Visas
There are two types of L1 visas:
1. L1A Visa: For managers and executives.
2. L1B Visa : For specialized knowledge staff.
Supporting Documents for L1 Visa Application
To apply for an L1 Visa , submit these documents:
- Valid passport (valid for 6 months after your visa ends).
- Photograph meeting US visa photography requirements.
- DS-160 confirmation page and code.
- Receipts proving payment of L1 visa fees.
- L1 visa interview appointment letter.
- For individual petitions :
- Form I-129 and one copy.
- Form I-797.
- For blanket petitions
- Form I-129 Send two copies.
- Three copies of Form I-797
- Employer letter confirming your transfer and job description.
- Proof of 1 year of employment with the employer in the past 3 years.
- Letters from previous employers and contact information for supervisors.
- Contact information for 2 coworkers from current and previous jobs.
- Photographs of the inside and outside of your workplace.
- Your CV or resume.
How to Apply for an L1 Visa
Follow these steps to apply for an L1 Visa :
1. Get a Transfer Offer Secure a job offer from the US office.
2. File Form I-129: Your employer submits this form to USCIS.
3. File Form DS-160: Complete the online visa application.
4. Pay the Application Fee: Cover all required fees.
5. Schedule the Interview: Book an appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate.
6. Submit Documents: Provide all required documents.
7. Attend Your Interview: Answer questions about your role and transfer.
L1 Visa Processing Time
The L1 visa takes about 3 to 4 months to process. Individual petitions may take slightly longer than blanket petitions. With premium processing, you can get a decision in 1 to 3 weeks.
How long is the L1 visa valid?
- L1A Visa: Valid for up to 7 years.
- L1B Visa: Valid for up to 5 years.
Your employer determines the contract length via Form I-129. This is noted on your Form I-94 upon US entry. When nearing expiration, your employer can file for an extension.
Can You Get a Green Card from an L1 Visa?
The L-1 Visa is a dual-intent visa, meaning you can apply for a Green Card without proving you’ll return home. You don’t need to show ties to your home country, and stating immigration intent won’t penalize your application. L1A visa holders may qualify as priority workers, potentially getting a Green Card within 1 year.
Can You Bring Dependents?
L1 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the US with an L2 visa.
How Many L1B Visa Employees Can a Company Have?
There’s no limit on L1B visa employees, but the company must prove each employee has specialized knowledge not found in other workers or the US labor market.
Conclusion
The L1 Visa is a valuable option for transferring to a US company, offering flexibility, dual intent, and dependent benefits. By understanding the types , requirements , and application steps, you can prepare a strong application. For more details, visit the [USCIS website](https://www.uscis.gov/).