L1-Visa: All You Need to Know

Know everything about L1-visas, from its application process, documents required to its advantages.
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3 min
05-April-2024

The L1 visa is a valuable tool for multinational companies looking to transfer employees to the United States. It enables skilled foreign workers to temporarily relocate to the U.S. for work purposes. This visa is particularly relevant for companies seeking to expand operations or transfer key personnel to their U.S. offices.

What is an L1 visa?

An L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows multinational companies to transfer employees from their foreign offices to their U.S. branches.

Different types of L1 visa

There are two types of L1 visa:

  • L1A visa: For managers and executives being transferred to the U.S. to oversee operations or manage staff.
  • L1B visa: For employees with specialised knowledge in a specific area essential to the company's operations.

Benefits of an L1 visa

Here are the key benefits of L1 visa.

  • Facilitates intra-company transfers, allowing skilled employees to work in the U.S. temporarily.
  • Enables companies to maintain consistency and efficiency by transferring key personnel.
  • Provides opportunities for professional growth and career development for employees.
  • Allows spouses of L1 visa holders to apply for work authorisation in the U.S.
  • Streamlines the process for companies expanding their business operations into the U.S.

Documents required to apply for an L1 visa

Following are the documents you require to apply for an L1 visa:

  • Valid passport.
  • Form DS-160 confirmation page.
  • L1 visa petition approval notice (Form I-129).
  • Employment verification letter from the sponsoring company.
  • Documentation demonstrating the applicant's qualifications and work history.
  • Proof of the relationship between the foreign and U.S. entities (for intra-company transfers).

How to apply for an L1 visa?

To apply for the L1 visa, follow the below steps:

  • Submit a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by the employer.
  • Once the petition is approved, the applicant can schedule a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
  • Complete the DS-160 online application form and pay the visa application fee.
  • Attend the visa interview and provide required documents.
  • Await visa processing and notification of approval.

What is the cost of an L1 visa?

The cost of an L1 visa includes several fees, such as the visa application fee, the USCIS filing fee for the petition, and any additional fees for premium processing or dependants. The total cost can vary depending on factors such as the applicant's country of origin and the type of visa being applied for.

Conclusion

The L1 visa serves as a valuable resource for multinational companies and skilled professionals alike, facilitating the transfer of talent and expertise across borders. By providing a pathway for intra-company transfers, this visa category contributes to the growth and success of businesses while offering opportunities for career advancement to employees. With its numerous benefits and streamlined application process, the L1 visa continues to play a crucial role in the global economy and international workforce mobility.

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Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to apply for an L1 visa?
Employees of multinational companies who have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year within the past three years in an executive, managerial, or specialised knowledge capacity are eligible for an L1 visa.
Is L1 visa better than H1B visa?
The suitability of the L1 visa versus the H1B visa depends on individual circumstances. L1 visa holders are typically transferred within the same company, while H1B visa holders are hired by U.S. employers. Both visas offer unique benefits and limitations.
What is the validity of an L1 visa?
The L1 visa validity depends on the type and circumstances of the transfer. Generally, L1A visas for managers and executives are valid for up to seven years, while L1B visas for employees with specialised knowledge are valid for up to five years.
Can an L1 visa holder apply for a green card in the U.S.?

Yes, L1 visa holders may be eligible to apply for a green card (permanent residency) in the U.S. through employment-based immigration pathways such as the EB-1C immigrant visa category for multinational managers and executives. However, eligibility criteria and requirements apply.

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