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L-1 Visa Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the L-1 visa?

The L-1 visa is designed to facilitate the transfer of key employees, including managers, executives, and employees with specialized knowledge, from a foreign office of a multinational company to a U.S. office of the same company.

What are the two main types of L-1 visas?

There are two primary types of L-1 visas:

L-1A: For managers and executives being transferred to manage a U.S. office, department, or team.

L-1B: For employees with specialized knowledge being transferred to work in a U.S. office.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an L-1 visa?

L-1A visa holders can stay for up to seven years, while L-1B visa holders can stay for up to five years. The initial period is typically three years, with extensions available.

Can my spouse and children accompany me on an L-1 visa?

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you on L-2 visas. Spouses who are granted L-2 derivative status automatically attain work authorization with their visa. This is referred to as having employment authorization ‘incident to’ their valid L-2 status.

Can I change employers while on an L-1 visa?

An L-1 visa is employer specific, where your visa is tied to your sponsoring employer. While you can change your job role within your employer’s organization, you would not be allowed to swap to a new employer under the same visa. However, for a completely new employer, you may need to switch to H-1B status instead. Consult with your immigration attorney for guidance.

Can I apply for permanent residency (a green card) while on an L-1 visa?

Yes, it is possible to apply for a green card while on an L-1 visa. Many L-1 visa holders pursue employment-based green cards through sponsorship by their U.S. employer.

Can I travel outside the U.S. while on an L-1 visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter while on an L-1 visa, but you should have a valid L-1 visa stamp in your passport and a valid L-1 approval notice. Travel should not disrupt your employment or status.

Is there a cap on the number of L-1 visas issued each year?

Unlike some other visa categories, there is no annual numerical cap on the number of L-1 visas issued. However, the L-1 visa petition must meet specific requirements and be filed by a qualifying employer.

What qualifies as "specialized knowledge" for an L-1B visa?

Specialized knowledge is defined as knowledge that is advanced, proprietary, and not generally known in the industry. It can involve specialized products, processes, or company-specific information.

What is the L-1 "blanket petition"?

Some large multinational companies that frequently transfer employees to the U.S. may be eligible to file a “blanket petition,” which streamlines the L-1 visa application process for multiple employees.
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