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Time is valuable when transferring executives or specialized employees. Begin your L-1 Visa process now, let your case build in the background, and secure the opportunity to expand your career or business presence in the United States.
Why choose L-1 Visas
What is the L-1 Visa and who is it for?
The L-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant employment-based visa that allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from an affiliated foreign office to a U.S. office. It is widely used by global businesses to establish or expand operations in the U.S. The visa is generally valid for one to three years, with possible extensions of up to seven years for executives and managers.
Visa applicants this year
Thousands apply every year. These are just a few we've helped connect with trusted immigration lawyers.
How VisaLaws helps you secure your L-1 Visa faster
The L-1 process requires strong documentation and detailed company records. At VisaLaws, we connect you with immigration lawyers who specialize in intracompany transfer visas. Whether you are setting up a new U.S. office or transferring staff to an existing one, our verified lawyers help you build a strong petition, anticipate RFEs, and avoid delays.
Visa progress
Olena V.
Fintech & Cybernetics
Moved from Ukraine to pursue cybernetics - now in Silicon Valley
100%
Approved
Green card status
35% complete
Adjustment of status underway Filed: May 2025 Expected: Feb 2026
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Juan C.
Software Engineer
VISA TYPE
Green Card
ELIGIBILTY STATUS
ELIGIBLE
TIMELINE
2-3 months
Citizenship
Visa
Green Card Path
Can the L-1 Visa lead to a Green Card?
Yes. One of the advantages of the L-1 Visa is that it is considered a “dual intent” visa, which means you can apply for permanent residency while holding L-1 status. Many executives and managers on an L-1A Visa transition directly to a Green Card through the EB-1C category, which avoids the lengthy PERM process. Employees with specialized knowledge under the L-1B Visa may later qualify for EB-2 or EB-3 Green Cards. An experienced immigration lawyer can guide you through this process and build the strategy to move you from temporary transfer to permanent residency.
Chat
Hey Joseph, is this the right step to get my citizenship? What is the fastest path to a Green Card?
•••
Green card status
75% complete
Adjustment of status underway Filed: July 2025 Expected: March 2026
Contact experienced L-1 Visa lawyers who can evaluate your situation, prepare your petition, and guide your company’s transfer or expansion strategy. Skilled attorneys will communicate directly with you, provide realistic timelines, and help secure your U.S. future.
"Hi, I'm Zoe, an immigration lawyer in Boston. I've reviewed your case and can help you get started."
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FAQ
Common L-1 visa Q's
What is an L-1 Visa?
The L-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant work visa that allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers, or specialized knowledge employees from an overseas office to a U.S. office. It is also used to establish new U.S. branches.
Who qualifies for an L-1 Visa?
To qualify, you must have worked for the foreign parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch company for at least one continuous year in the past three years in either an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.
What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?
L-1A is for executives and managers, valid up to seven years. L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge, valid up to five years. Both require proof of qualifying company relationships and roles.
How long is an L-1 Visa valid?
L-1A is typically issued for one to three years initially and extendable up to seven years. L-1B is valid for one to three years with extensions possible up to five years total.
Can an L-1 Visa lead to a Green Card?
Yes. L-1A Visa holders often transition directly to permanent residency through the EB-1C Green Card category, avoiding the lengthy PERM process. L-1B holders may pursue EB-2 or EB-3 Green Cards.
Can a new office sponsor an L-1 Visa?
Yes. A foreign company establishing a new U.S. office can sponsor an L-1 Visa if they provide a detailed business plan, financial capability evidence, and show the new office will support an executive or managerial role within one year.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for an L-1 Visa?
While not legally required, having an immigration lawyer greatly increases success. The L-1 requires extensive documentation, strong job descriptions, and proof of company structure. Lawyers help avoid costly RFEs and denials.
Can my family come with me on an L-1 Visa?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can come on L-2 Visas. L-2 spouses are eligible to apply for U.S. work authorization, and children may attend school.
Why was my L-1 Visas denied?
Common reasons include weak proof of the qualifying company relationship, unclear executive/managerial duties, insufficient evidence of specialized knowledge, or lack of financial ability for new offices. Strong documentation is key.
Can I change to another visa type while on an L-1?
Yes. You can change from L-1 to another nonimmigrant visa or apply for permanent residency. Many executives transition to EB-1C Green Cards directly from L-1A status.
What are the filing fees for an L-1 Visa?
Filing fees include Form I-129 ($460), Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee ($500), and additional employer fees ranging from $750 to $4,500 depending on company size. Premium processing is $2,805.
Can I travel internationally on an L-1 Visa?
Yes. You can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter as long as your L-1 Visa stamp is valid in your passport. Always carry employment verification when traveling.
What counts as specialized knowledge for L-1B?
Specialized knowledge refers to advanced expertise about the company’s products, services, research, or proprietary processes that are critical to the company’s competitiveness and not easily found in the labor market.
Is there a lottery cap for L-1 Visas?
No. Unlike the H-1B Visa, the L-1 Visa has no annual cap or lottery, making it a more predictable option for qualifying multinational transfers.
Can an L-1 Visa be extended?
Yes. L-1A can be extended in two-year increments up to seven years. L-1B can be extended in two-year increments up to five years total. Extensions require proof of continued eligibility.
What is premium processing for an L-1 Visa?
Premium processing is an optional service that guarantees USCIS will issue a decision within 15 business days for an additional fee of $2,805. It is highly recommended for urgent transfers.
Can small businesses or startups apply for L-1 Visas?
Yes, if they maintain a qualifying relationship with a foreign office and can demonstrate a real need for an executive, manager, or specialized knowledge employee in the U.S. with proper documentation.
What documents are required for an L-1 Visa?
Key documents include proof of qualifying company relationship, detailed organizational charts, payroll records, financial statements, office lease agreements, job descriptions, and evidence of executive authority or specialized knowledge.
Can I work for multiple employers on an L-1 Visa?
No. L-1 status only permits employment with the sponsoring U.S. employer and its qualifying affiliates. Working outside of this structure violates visa terms.
How long does L-1 Visa processing take?
Standard processing can take 2 to 6 months depending on USCIS workload. With premium processing, you can receive a decision in just 15 business days.
Secure Your L-1 Visa
Take the next step with confidence. Find experienced immigration lawyers who specialize in L-1 Visas and multinational transfers. Get the guidance you need to move from application to approval and start building your future in the U.S. today.
