The L-1 Visa, also known as the Intracompany Transferee Visa, enables multinational businesses to transfer qualified employees from their foreign offices to a U.S. branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. This visa is particularly valuable for companies that operate both in the United States and abroad and need to relocate executives, managers, or employees with specialized expertise to strengthen their U.S. operations.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have extensive experience helping corporations of all sizes—ranging from established global enterprises to innovative start-ups—secure L-1 visas for essential team members across industries such as technology, finance, manufacturing, and international trade.
If your company needs to bring top global talent to its U.S. locations, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can guide you through every stage of the L-1 visa process, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer.
Schedule a Consultation today to learn how our team can help your organization expand successfully in the U.S.
Types of L-1 Visas
The U.S. government offers two primary types of L-1 visas, each designed for a specific category of employees:
- L-1A Visa (Executives and Managers): Reserved for employees with key leadership roles who oversee major business functions or make strategic, high-level decisions.
- L-1B Visa (Specialized Knowledge Employees): Intended for employees who possess advanced or proprietary knowledge about a company’s products, services, systems, or operational processes that are critical to its success.
Understanding which category best fits your employee’s role is essential to securing approval. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link will analyze your company structure and prepare a strong petition tailored to your business goals.
L-1 Visa Requirements
To qualify for an L-1 visa, both the employer and employee must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- There must be a legitimate qualifying relationship between the U.S. business and the foreign entity—such as a parent company, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary.
- The company must actively conduct business in the United States and at least one other country during the validity period of the visa.
- The employee must have worked continuously for at least one year within the previous three years at the foreign entity before applying for transfer to the U.S.
Although the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not explicitly require a business plan for the L-1 visa, a well-structured L-1 business plan can greatly strengthen your case by demonstrating the legitimacy and growth potential of your U.S. operations. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can prepare detailed business plans and documentation that align with USCIS standards to enhance your petition’s credibility.
L-1A Visa Requirements (Executives and Managers)
To qualify for the L-1A visa, the applicant must:
- Have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the last three years.
- Hold a position that demonstrates executive or managerial authority, meaning the ability to make strategic decisions, supervise professional employees, or manage significant components of the organization’s operations.
Executives and managers play a crucial role in corporate growth. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are skilled in preparing persuasive documentation that highlights leadership responsibilities in compliance with L-1A standards.
Schedule a Consultation today to make your international hiring seamless.
L-1B Visa Requirements (Specialized Knowledge)
To qualify for the L-1B visa, the applicant must:
- Have been continuously employed by the foreign entity for at least one year in the preceding three years.
- Possess specialized or proprietary knowledge of the company’s operations, systems, or services that is essential to the organization’s productivity and competitiveness.
Demonstrating specialized knowledge can be complex, but immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help define and substantiate this expertise through detailed documentation, technical descriptions, and project histories that meet USCIS expectations.
How an L-1 Visa Attorney Can Help
Securing an L-1 visa involves complex legal requirements, corporate documentation, and strategic presentation of facts. Having an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link is essential to navigate the process with confidence.
Our attorneys ensure all filings are accurate, timely, and supported by compelling evidence. From preparing company relationship charts to crafting detailed support letters, we handle every aspect of the process so your business can focus on growth.
With Green Card Link by your side, you gain a trusted partner dedicated to achieving a successful L-1 visa approval.
L-1 Visa Benefits
The L-1 visa offers several significant advantages for employers and employees alike:
- Work Authorization for Dependents: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can obtain L-2 visas. L-2 spouses automatically receive employment authorization during their stay in the U.S.
- No Annual Cap: Unlike the H-1B visa, the L-1 visa is not limited by an annual quota or lottery system.
- Blanket Petition Option: Large multinational companies can file blanket petitions to streamline the transfer process for multiple employees.
- Renewable Validity: L-1 visas can be extended up to 7 years (for L-1A holders) or 5 years (for L-1B holders).
- Pathway to a Green Card: L-1A executives and managers are often eligible to apply for an EB-1C Green Card, providing a direct route to permanent residency.
- New Office Provision: Companies can use the L-1 visa to establish a new U.S. office, branch, or affiliate, allowing for strategic expansion into the American market.
Who Is the L-1 Visa For?
The L-1 visa is designed for professionals transferring within the same multinational company to a U.S. branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate. It offers a unique opportunity for foreign executives, managers, and specialized knowledge employees to work in the United States without needing to switch employers.
You Plan to Pursue a Green Card
The L-1 visa is a dual-intent visa, which means that holders can apply for lawful permanent residency once they qualify. This pathway makes the L-1 visa especially attractive to those who intend to secure a U.S. green card in the future.
You Don’t Qualify for Other U.S. Work Visas
If you do not meet the strict criteria for other U.S. visas—such as the O-1 visa—or are ineligible for a TN visa, the L-1 may be an ideal alternative. The eligibility requirements for the L-1 are generally more flexible, making it a viable option for many multinational professionals.
You Prefer to Stay with the Same Employer
Unlike other employment visas that require a new job offer from a U.S. employer, the L-1 allows you to continue working for the same company that employs you abroad. You’ll simply transfer to the company’s U.S. branch, allowing you to maintain your existing employment relationship while advancing your career internationally.
You Want to Avoid Lengthy Waiting Periods
The L-1 visa program does not have an annual cap, unlike the H-1B visa, which is subject to a lottery system and long waiting times. This allows you to avoid uncertainty and move forward with your U.S. employment plans without delay.
You Want a Longer Period of Stay
With the L-1A visa, executives and managers can stay in the U.S. for up to seven years, while L-1B specialized knowledge employees can remain for up to five years, provided their extensions are approved. Compared to many other work visas, this extended duration offers significant professional stability.
Your Family Can Join You in the U.S.
L-1 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under the L-2 visa category. What makes this particularly appealing is that L-2 spouses are eligible to apply for work authorization (EAD), allowing them to pursue their own careers while accompanying you in the United States.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have helped countless international companies successfully transfer employees from their global offices to U.S. locations. The team strives to make the L-1 process smooth, transparent, and stress-free for every client. Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can assist with your L-1 visa transfer.
Our Experience with L-1 Visas
At Green Card Link, the immigration attorneys possess extensive experience handling L-1A and L-1B visa petitions for executives, managers, and specialized professionals. They are known for delivering personalized guidance, diligent case preparation, and exceptional client service.
According to an immigration attorney at Green Card Link, helping a client secure an L-1 visa demonstrates how expertise and careful documentation can make a difference:
“Assisting my client in obtaining an L-1 visa was a testament to the value of precision and persistence. From reviewing every document in detail to building a compelling case that highlighted my client’s unique contributions, we ensured the petition clearly showcased how their specialized knowledge would benefit the U.S. economy.”
Recent Success Story
One of our recent L-1 victories involved assisting a client who aimed to establish a new U.S. office for a large overseas agricultural company in South Florida. Despite facing significant technical and logistical challenges, our team worked tirelessly to meet every USCIS requirement. The case was ultimately approved—demonstrating how Green Card Link’s immigration attorneys rise to complex challenges and deliver results even in the most difficult immigration cases.
How to Choose the Best L-1 Visa Lawyer
Selecting the right L-1 visa attorney is critical to your success. The L-1 process involves multiple technical requirements, and having experienced legal representation can make all the difference. When choosing your attorney, consider the following:
Reliability
Ensure the attorney is responsive and accessible. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are known for maintaining consistent communication—whether through phone, email, or virtual consultations—throughout the entire visa process.
Personalized Approach
A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in immigration law. Choose an attorney who takes the time to understand your company’s structure, your career background, and your long-term immigration goals. At Green Card Link, every L-1 case is customized to highlight your qualifications and meet your organization’s strategic objectives.
Transparent Pricing
Look for an attorney who provides a clear and upfront fee structure with no hidden costs. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link believe in transparency so clients can plan confidently without surprises.
Effective Communication
From the initial consultation to the final approval, you deserve a team that communicates efficiently and keeps you informed at every stage. Green Card Link prioritizes collaboration, ensuring clients remain engaged and supported throughout the L-1 process.
L-1 Visa Process: Step-by-Step Guide by Immigration Attorneys at Green Card Link
Understanding the L-1 visa process is essential for companies and professionals seeking to transfer employees from a foreign branch to a U.S. office. The process is generally more straightforward than many other employment-based visas, but it requires precision and compliance at every stage. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help guide you through every step of your L-1 visa application.
1. Filing the I-129 Petition
The first step in obtaining an L-1 visa is for the employer to file Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petition must include supporting evidence proving that:
- The U.S. and foreign companies have a qualifying relationship; and
- The employee meets the eligibility requirements for L-1 classification..
Once USCIS approves the petition, a Notice of Action is issued, allowing the applicant to continue the process—either through consular processing abroad or a change of status within the United States.
2. Consular Processing (If Outside the U.S.)
If you are outside the U.S., you must complete the DS-160 online visa application and present the confirmation page and fee payment receipt during your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. During the interview, a consular officer will evaluate your eligibility for the L-1 visa.
If approved, you’ll receive your L-1 visa and can begin working for your U.S. employer.
L-1 Visa Document Checklist
Since the L-1 visa is employer-sponsored, both the company and the employee must provide detailed documentation.
Employer Documentation
Your employer must typically submit the following to demonstrate the legitimacy and financial stability of both the U.S. and foreign entities:
- Financial statements
- Corporate by-laws
- Articles of incorporation
- Business activity description
- Federal and state tax filings
- Audited financial accounts
- Additional documents as required by USCIS
Employee Documentation
As the L-1 applicant, you will need to provide:
- Educational diplomas or certificates
- Income tax records
- Valid passport (minimum six months validity)
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Employment verification letter
- Employer letter requesting L-1 classification
- Letters of reference from supervisors
- Updated resume or CV
Depending on your background or role, USCIS may request additional evidence. It’s essential to consult an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link to ensure your application is complete and properly supported.
L-1 Visa Processing Time
Processing times can vary based on the USCIS service center handling your case. On average, the standard processing time for Form I-129 petitions is three to four months, according to median USCIS data. Both L-1A and L-1B petitions generally follow the same timeline.
Premium Processing Option
Employers can opt for Premium Processing, which guarantees USCIS action within 15 business days for an additional government fee. If USCIS fails to process the petition within that timeframe, the premium processing fee is refunded.
While Premium Processing does not guarantee approval, it can be beneficial for employers and employees with urgent travel or project needs. Speak with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link to determine whether this option is right for your case.
Grace Period After Employment Ends
If your L-1 status ends due to job loss or denial of extension, federal regulations (8 CFR 214.1(l)(2)) grant a 60-day grace period (or until your I-94 expiration date, whichever is shorter).
This period allows you to:
- Seek a new qualifying employer,
- Apply for a change of status, or
- Prepare for a timely departure from the United States.
L-1 Visa Fees
Below is a breakdown of the typical government filing fees for the L-1 visa:
Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Who Pays |
I-129 Basic Filing Fee | $1,055 | Employer |
Small Employer/Nonprofit Additional Fee | +$530 | Employer |
Premium Processing (optional) | $2,805 | Employer |
Asylum Program Fee | $600 | Employer (waived or reduced for small employers/nonprofits) |
Anti-Fraud Fee | $500 | Employer |
Public Law 114-115 Fee (if applicable) | $4,500 | Employer with >50 employees where half hold L-1A, L-1B, or H-1B visas |
DS-160 Application Fee (for consular processing) | $205 | Applicant |
Important:
All fees except the DS-160 fee are typically paid by your employer, not you. Additionally, the ACWIA and Public Law fees are one-time charges that do not apply to L-1 visa extensions or internal transfers.
L-1 Blanket Petition: Streamlined Intra-Company Transfer for Qualified Professionals
An L-1 blanket petition allows eligible multinational companies to simplify the visa process for their employees. Instead of filing individual Form I-129 petitions for each transferee, approved companies can send qualifying employees directly to a U.S. embassy or consulate for visa processing.
To qualify for blanket approval, a company must meet all general L-1 visa eligibility requirements and operate at least three or more branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates. In addition, one of the following conditions must be met:
- The company has obtained 10 or more L-1 visas within the past 12 months;
- Its U.S. subsidiaries or affiliates have a combined annual sales volume of $25 million or more; or
- The company employs at least 1,000 people in the United States.
Approved blanket petitions allow faster, more efficient processing for executives, managers, and specialized-knowledge employees transferring to U.S. offices.
Responding to L-1 Visa Requests for Evidence (RFE)
If the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) identifies discrepancies or missing information in an application, it may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) instead of a denial. An RFE outlines specific concerns—such as incomplete documentation, insufficient evidence of qualifications, or doubts about the employer’s legitimacy.
Receiving an RFE is time-sensitive. Applicants should contact an immigration attorney at Green Card Link immediately upon receiving one. The response deadline is typically short, and failure to provide a comprehensive reply within that window may result in the denial of your L-1 visa petition.
How to Apply for an L-1 Visa Extension or Renewal
The process for an L-1 visa extension is similar to the initial application. Your U.S. employer must file a new petition before the expiration of your Form I-94 departure record. Supporting evidence generally includes a letter of continued employment, details about your job duties over the past three years, and proof that you continue to meet L-1 eligibility criteria.
If you have spent time outside the United States during your stay, you may be able to recapture that time to extend your visa validity. To do so, you must submit physical evidence such as boarding passes, airline tickets, or passport stamps that verify your international travel.
Alternatives to the L-1 Visa
If you do not meet the L-1 visa criteria, other employment-based immigration options may be available through Green Card Link:
If you have spent time outside the United States during your stay, you may be able to recapture that time to extend your visa validity. To do so, you must submit physical evidence such as boarding passes, airline tickets, or passport stamps that verify your international travel.
- EB-1 Green Card: For individuals with extraordinary ability in science, art, education, business, or athletics; outstanding professors or researchers; and multinational executives or managers. Applicants must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and continue working in their field of expertise.
- EB-2 Green Card: Designed for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in science, art, or business. This includes National Interest Waiver (NIW) petitions for work benefiting the United States. Processing times generally range from 10 months to 2 years, depending on USCIS and visa bulletin availability.
- EB-3 Green Card: For skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers with less than two years of experience, including those with bachelor’s degrees or equivalent qualifications.
- EB-5 Green Card: For investors who invest a qualifying amount in a new U.S. business that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time American jobs.
- H-1B Visa: For professionals in specialty occupations such as engineering, IT, science, and finance.
- L-1 Visa: For intra-company transfers of executives, managers, or specialized-knowledge employees.
- O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in the arts, sciences, business, education, or athletics.
- TN Visa: For qualified Canadian or Mexican professionals seeking temporary work authorization under NAFTA/USMCA.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys make U.S. employment immigration smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
How Immigration Attorneys at Green Card Link Can Help
Navigating complex U.S. immigration laws requires expert guidance. Working with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link helps you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link assist with every stage of the L-1 visa process, including:
- Preparing and filing L-1 blanket petitions for corporate clients;
- Managing L-1 to H-1B or L-1 to EB-1 transitions;
- Responding to USCIS RFEs and ensuring timely submission of all required evidence;
- Filing L-1 visa extensions and renewals accurately and on schedule; and
- Conducting detailed document reviews to prevent unnecessary processing delays.
Their in-depth experience with EB-1 green card applications for L-1A visa holders allows them to streamline your path to permanent residency.
Through an optimized and well-organized application process, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link ensure that clients remain on the fast track toward achieving their U.S. employment and residency goals.