L1 Visa

Introduction to L1 Visa

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

Lawyer explaining L1 visa to client
Author
Remzi G. Kulen
Attorney at Law, Founder

Remzi Güvenç Kulen, founder of Kulen Law Firm, is a distinguished immigration attorney with over 20 years of experience in U.S. immigration law. Specializing in employment-based visas such as the L1 visa, Remzi has successfully guided countless professionals and employers through the complexities of the U.S. immigration process.

What is an L1 Visa?

The L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables multinational companies to transfer employees from foreign offices to their U.S. branches. This visa allows qualified individuals to relocate temporarily to manage operations, expand business, or bring specialized knowledge to the U.S. workforce.

Designed to promote intra company transfers, the L1 visa benefits companies by ensuring business continuity and efficient scaling of operations in the U.S. It is widely used by executives, managers, and key employees critical to the company’s success.

The L1 visa USA program is a strategic tool for businesses, facilitating the seamless relocation of essential personnel without interrupting operations.


L1 Visa Types – L1A and L1B

The L1 visa is divided into two categories based on the applicant’s role:

  • L1A Visa – Reserved for executives and managers who oversee company operations or lead entire teams. This visa is valid for an initial period of 1 year for new offices and up to 3 years for existing offices, with the possibility of extensions up to 7 years. L1A visa holders are often eligible for the EB-1C green card category.
  • L1B Visa – Designed for employees with specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, or proprietary techniques. The initial validity is up to 3 years, with the potential for extensions, allowing a total stay of up to 5 years.

Both the L1A and L1B visas are critical for companies seeking to expand or reinforce their U.S. presence, ensuring skilled leadership and technical expertise are readily available.


What Does L1 Visa Mean?

The L1 visa signifies an opportunity for global companies to transfer talent across borders, supporting operational growth and leadership in the U.S. It serves as a bridge for employees to gain valuable international experience, contributing to their professional development and the company’s global integration.

In essence, the L1 visa means business expansion and knowledge transfer, reinforcing the role of international talent in driving innovation and efficiency within U.S.-based operations.


L1 Visa for the USA

The L1 visa for the USA is pivotal for international companies seeking to establish or grow their American presence. It simplifies the process of bringing experienced personnel to the U.S. while adhering to immigration policies.

By allowing companies to transfer trusted employees, the L1 visa enhances U.S. market competitiveness and promotes job creation. It is a cornerstone for fostering cross-border collaboration and sustained business growth.

L1 Visa Eligibility and Requirements

L1 Visa Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an L1 visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The criteria are designed to ensure that the visa is used for legitimate intracompany transfers that benefit both the business and the U.S. economy.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

  • Employment Requirement: The applicant must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the past three years before applying.
  • Qualifying Relationship: The U.S. and foreign companies must share a qualifying relationship. This can include:
    • Parent/Subsidiary
    • Branch Office
    • Affiliate or Joint Venture
  • Executive, Managerial, or Specialized Knowledge Role: The applicant must hold a position as either:
    • L1A Visa (Executive/Managerial): Responsible for directing, supervising, or overseeing significant parts of the company.
    • L1B Visa (Specialized Knowledge): Possesses unique expertise or in-depth knowledge about the company’s services, products, or proprietary technology.
  • Active U.S. Presence: The U.S. entity must be actively doing business or making preparations to launch operations.
The L1 visa eligibility criteria emphasize the transfer of essential personnel whose leadership or knowledge is crucial to the company’s success.

L1 Visa Requirements

The L1 visa requirements focus on verifying the applicant’s employment history, the nature of the job, and the relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities. Meeting these requirements is essential for visa approval.

Key L1 Visa Requirements:

  • Company Qualifications:
    • Proof of the U.S. office’s operations or business plans if establishing a new office.
    • Evidence of ongoing operations at the foreign office.
  • Applicant’s Role:
    • Organizational charts demonstrating the applicant’s managerial/executive position.
    • Job descriptions outlining responsibilities and the critical nature of the role.
  • Business Continuity:
    • The U.S. office must continue operations throughout the applicant’s stay.
    • Demonstrated ability to pay the applicant’s salary and maintain company operations.
Careful documentation of L1 visa requirements ensures the application process runs smoothly and avoids delays in processing.

L1 Visa Document Requirements

To support the L1 visa application, comprehensive documentation must be submitted by both the employer and the employee. Providing accurate records helps establish eligibility and enhances the likelihood of approval.

Required Documents for L1 Visa:

  • For the Employee (Applicant):
    • Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).
    • Proof of employment with the company (offer letters, contracts, etc.).
    • Resume/CV detailing qualifications and relevant work experience.
    • Letters of recommendation or performance reviews (if applicable).
  • For the Employer (Sponsor):
    • Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) – The core petition for L1 visa applicants.
    • A letter from the U.S. company confirming the transfer and describing the applicant’s role.
    • Organizational structure, ownership documents, and proof of a qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities.
    • Financial statements, tax returns, and lease agreements to confirm the U.S. office’s operational status.

Additional Blanket L1 Visa Requirements (for larger corporations):

  • Evidence of previous L1 visa approvals.
  • Proof of the company’s multinational presence and the ability to transfer multiple employees.

Meeting the L1 visa document requirements is critical for ensuring a seamless application process. If any documents are missing, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), delaying the process.

Would you like to proceed with the L1 Visa Application Process next?

L1 Visa Application Process

How to Apply for an L1 Visa

Applying for an L1 visa involves a collaborative effort between the sponsoring employer and the employee. The process ensures that qualified individuals can be transferred to the U.S. to fulfill essential roles within the company.

Steps to Apply:

  1. Employer Files Form I-129:
    • The U.S. employer submits Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition includes evidence of the qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities and the employee's eligibility.
      İmmi USA 
  2. USCIS Processing:
    • Upon receiving the petition, USCIS issues a receipt notice and reviews the submission. Processing times can vary, but premium processing is available for an additional fee, expediting the decision to 15 business days. If USCIS has additional questions about the application it issues a Request for Evidence (RFE).
  3. Approval and Form I-797 Issuance:
    • If approved, USCIS issues a Form I-797, Notice of Action, confirming the petition's approval.
  4. Employee Completes Form DS-160:
    • The employee submits Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, and pays the associated visa application fee.
  5. Schedule and Attend Visa Interview:
    • The employee schedules an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. During the interview, they must present necessary documentation, including the approved Form I-797, valid passport, and proof of employment.
  6. Visa Issuance and Entry to the U.S.:
    • Upon approval, the L1 visa is stamped in the employee's passport, allowing them to travel to the U.S. and commence their assigned duties.

L1 Visa Process – Step by Step

A detailed breakdown of the L1 visa application process ensures clarity and preparedness for both employers and employees.

  1. Determine Eligibility:
    • Confirm that the employee has been employed with the foreign entity for at least one continuous year within the preceding three years and meets the criteria for either L1A (executive/managerial) or L1B (specialized knowledge) classification.
  2. Gather Supporting Documentation:
    • Collect necessary documents, including:
      • Proof of the qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities.
      • Detailed job descriptions and organizational charts.
      • Evidence of the employee's qualifications and experience.
  3. File Form I-129 with USCIS:
    • The employer submits Form I-129 along with the required supporting documents and pays the applicable filing fees.
  4. Await USCIS Decision:
    • Standard processing times can vary; however, premium processing is available for expedited review.
  5. Employee Submits Form DS-160:
    • After petition approval, the employee completes the online visa application and pays the visa application fee.
  6. Attend Visa Interview:
    • The employee attends a visa interview at the designated U.S. embassy or consulate, presenting all required documentation.
  7. Receive Visa and Prepare for Entry:
    • Once the visa is issued, the employee can make travel arrangements to the U.S. to begin their assignment.

Blanket L1 Visa Process

The Blanket L1 Visa process offers a streamlined approach for large multinational companies to transfer multiple employees efficiently.

Eligibility for Blanket L1 Petition:

To qualify for a blanket L1 petition, a company must meet specific criteria, including:

  • Engaging in commercial trade or services.
  • Having an office in the U.S. that has been operational for at least one year.
  • Having at least three domestic and foreign branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates.
  • Meeting certain employee or revenue thresholds.

Steps in the Blanket L1 Visa Process:

  1. Employer Files Blanket Petition:
    • The employer submits a blanket petition to USCIS to establish the organization's eligibility to transfer multiple employees without filing individual petitions.
  2. USCIS Approval of Blanket Petition:
    • Once approved, USCIS grants the company blanket L certification, allowing for expedited processing of individual employee transfers.
  3. Employee Applies at U.S. Consulate:
    • With the blanket approval, the employee submits Form I-129S, Nonimmigrant Petition Based on Blanket L Petition, along with Form DS-160, directly to a U.S. consulate or embassy.
  4. Attend Visa Interview:
    • The employee attends a visa interview, presenting the necessary documentation, including the approved blanket petition and proof of qualifications.
  5. Visa Issuance and Entry to the U.S.:
    • Upon approval, the L1 visa is issued, enabling the employee to travel to the U.S. to commence their role.

The Blanket L1 Visa process significantly reduces processing times and administrative burdens for qualifying organizations, facilitating the swift transfer of multiple employees to the U.S.

For personalized assistance with the L1 visa application process, consider consulting with immigration professionals to ensure compliance and increase the likelihood of approval.

L1 Visa Cost Breakdown

Applying for an L1 visa involves several fees, which may vary based on specific circumstances. As of April 1, 2024, the following fees apply:

  • Form I-129 Filing Fee: Regular Filing Fee- $1385+ Asylum Fee, Small Employer Filing Fee-$695+Asylum Fee.

Asylum Fee- Regular Petitioner-$600/ Non Profit-$0/ Small Employer- $300

  • This is the base fee for filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
  • Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee: $500
    • Applicable to new L1 petitions to detect and prevent visa fraud.

  • Public Law 114-113 Fee: $4,500
    • Required for employers with 50 or more employees in the U.S., where more than 50% are in H-1B or L-1 status.

  • DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application Fee: $205
    • Paid by the visa applicant when applying at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

  • Premium Processing Fee (Optional): $2,805
    • Expedites USCIS processing to 15 business days.
*USCIS filing fees are determined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and may change periodically. You can find the most up-to-date fee schedule directly on their website: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees

Additional Considerations:

  • Attorney Fees:We offer fixed and transparent attorney fees, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the costs involved as you begin your immigration journey. Our fees are based on the complexity of your case, and after thoroughly evaluating your situation, we will provide a customized quote.
  • Translation and Document Preparation Costs: Applicable if documents need translation or notarization.
  • Travel Expenses: For attending visa interviews or relocating to the U.S.
It's essential to ensure all fees are accurately calculated and submitted to avoid processing delays. For the most current fee information, refer to the USCIS Fee Schedule and the Department of State's Fees for Visa Services.

L1 Visa Cost and Salary

While there is no mandated minimum salary for L1 visa holders, compensation should be commensurate with the position and industry standards in the U.S. This ensures compliance with U.S. labor laws and reflects the employee's role and experience.

Key Points:

  • Market Rate Alignment: Salaries should align with the prevailing wage for similar positions in the geographic area.
  • Company Policies: Compensation should be consistent with the employer's internal pay scales for comparable roles.
  • Living Expenses: Consideration of the cost of living in the employment location to ensure fair compensation.

Offering competitive salaries not only aids in the approval process but also helps in attracting and retaining top talent.

L1 Visa Duration and Validity

L1 Visa Duration

The duration of an L1 visa depends on the applicant’s visa category (L1A or L1B) and whether they are establishing a new office or transferring to an existing one.

  • L1A Visa (Executives and Managers):
    • Initial Stay for New Offices: 1 year
    • Existing Offices: Up to 3 years
    • Maximum Stay (with extensions): 7 years
  • L1B Visa (Specialized Knowledge Employees):
    • Initial Stay for New Offices: 1 year
    • Existing Offices: Up to 3 years
    • Maximum Stay (with extensions): 5 years
L1 visa holders must leave the U.S. for at least 1 year if they reach the maximum stay before applying for a new L1 visa.

L1 Visa Extension

Extensions allow L1 visa holders to continue their employment in the U.S. beyond the initial stay. Each extension is granted in increments of up to 2 years until the maximum duration is reached.

Key Points for L1 Visa Extensions:

  • Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) must be refiled with updated documentation showing the continued qualifying relationship and the necessity of the applicant’s role.
  • Proof of Active U.S. Operations – The U.S. office must demonstrate ongoing business operations.
  • Consistent Employment – The applicant must continue working in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.

Extension Processing Time:

  • Regular Processing: 3 to 6 months
  • Premium Processing (Optional): 15 business days for an additional $2,805 (as of 2024).

L1 Visa Validity and Stamping

Once the L1 visa petition is approved, the employee must attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy for visa stamping.

Key Steps in the Stamping Process:

  1. Form DS-160 Submission – Complete the online visa application.
  2. Visa Interview Appointment – Schedule and attend the interview.
  3. Required Documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Form I-129 and I-797 (Approval Notice)
    • Proof of employment and relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities

The L1 visa is typically stamped for the duration of the approved petition but cannot exceed the maximum allowable stay.

Re-entry to the U.S.:
L1 visa holders can re-enter the U.S. during the visa’s validity, provided they maintain their employment with the sponsoring company.

L1 Visa for Dependents and Family

L1 Dependent Visa (L2 Visa)

The L2 visa allows dependents of L1 visa holders to accompany them to the U.S. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age are eligible for L2 visas, granting them the ability to live and study in the U.S. during the principal L1 visa holder’s stay. L2 spouses can obtain a Social Security Number and are allowed to work in the USA.

Key Benefits of the L2 Visa:

  • Work Authorization for Spouses: L2 spouses are allowed to work when they are granted L2 status. They are issued L2S in their I-94 while entering the U.S. L2 spouses do not need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765 since their employment is authorized incident to L2 status. There are no restrictions on the type of employment L2 spouses can pursue.
  • Education and Study: Children can enroll in U.S. schools, while spouses may pursue higher education.
  • Multiple Entry: L2 visa holders can travel freely in and out of the U.S. as long as their visa remains valid.

L1 Visa for Spouses

Spouses of L1 visa holders play a critical role in the relocation process. The L2 spouse visa offers significant flexibility, allowing spouses to integrate into the U.S. workforce or pursue further education.

Steps to Obtain Work Authorization for L2 Spouses:

L2 spouses do not need to file Form I-765 (EAD) to obtain work authorization. Their employment is incidental to status, meaning that once they are in L2 status they can work. Their status is annotated as L2S in their I-94 form of entry. 

Key Considerations:

  • L2 spouses can start working immediately upon receiving L2 status. This could be achieved by either entering the US in L2 or if the applicant is in the US, by changing status to L2 status. Their employment authorization is confirmed by the annotation "L2S" on their I-94 form.

Healthcare and Social Benefits for L2 Visa Holders

L2 visa holders may be eligible for healthcare benefits through the L1 visa holder’s employer, depending on the company’s policies. L2 dependents can also apply for a Social Security Number (SSN).

Education Benefits for Children:

  • L2 children can attend public and private schools in the U.S.
  • Higher education options are available, though L2 status alone does not provide financial aid or in-state tuition unless specific state laws apply.

L1 Visa Processing Time and Travel

L1 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for an L1 visa varies depending on the type of application (L1A or L1B), company size, and whether regular or premium processing is selected.

Standard Processing Times (2024):

  • L1 Visa (Regular Processing): 3 to 6 months
  • L1 Visa (Premium Processing): 15 business days (for an additional $2,805 fee)
Premium processing ensures a faster review of the petition, significantly reducing wait times. If USCIS requests additional evidence (RFE), processing may take longer, even with premium service.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

  • Completeness of Documentation: Any missing documents can lead to delays or RFEs.
  • Consular Appointment Availability: Visa interview wait times vary by consulate location.
  • New Office Petitions: If the L1 visa is for establishing a new office in the U.S., initial approval may take longer (up to 1 year for L1A and L1B new office petitions).

L1 Visa Travel Restrictions

L1 visa holders can travel freely in and out of the U.S. during the validity of their visa. However, certain factors can impact re-entry and travel:

  • Maintaining Employment: L1 visa holders must remain employed by the sponsoring company.
  • Visa Validity: Re-entry is permitted as long as the L1 visa stamp and I-94 form remain valid.
L2 Dependent Travel: L2 visa holders can also travel but must ensure their visas are valid during re-entry.

L1 Change of Status in the USA

Visa stamping is required for L1 visa holders entering the U.S. from abroad. If the applicant is already in the U.S., a Change of Status (COS) application can be filed to switch to L1 status. There is no L1 Visa Stamping in the USA. However, if the applicant leaves the U.S., they must obtain visa stamping through consular processing before re-entering.

L-1 Change of Status (COS) in the U.S. – Step-by-Step Process

If you are already in the USA under a different visa category, you can apply for a Change of Status (COS) to an L-1 visa without leaving the country. This process allows individuals to seamlessly transition to L-1 status while continuing to live and work in the U.S.

Key Steps for L-1 Change of Status in the U.S.:

  1. Eligibility Review:
    • Confirm that you meet all L-1 visa eligibility requirements:
      • Employment with the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the past three years.
      • The U.S. and foreign companies must share a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch).
      • The applicant must hold an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.
  2. File Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker):
    • Your U.S. employer must submit Form I-129 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), requesting a change of status to L-1.
    • The petition should include detailed documentation about:
      • The U.S. and foreign entities' relationship.
      • Your job responsibilities and qualifications.
      • Proof of your employment history.
  3. Request Premium Processing (Optional):
    • For faster results, your employer can file for premium processing by submitting Form I-907 with an additional $2,500 fee. This guarantees USCIS will process the petition within 15 calendar days.
  4. Await Approval:
    • If the petition is approved, USCIS will issue a Form I-797 (Notice of Action), granting L-1 status.
    • There is no need to leave the U.S. for consular processing unless you plan to travel internationally.

Important Considerations for L-1 Change of Status:

  • Travel Restrictions: Once the COS is approved, leaving the U.S. before visa stamping may void your new status. If you travel, you must apply for L-1 visa stamping at a U.S. consulate before re-entering.
  • Dependents: Spouses and children under 21 can apply for L-2 status by submitting Form I-539 concurrently with your I-129 petition. L-2 spouses may also apply for employment authorization (EAD).
  • Timelines: The regular processing time for COS petitions ranges between 3 to 6 months, depending on USCIS caseloads and your location.

Benefits of L-1 Change of Status in the U.S.:

  • No Need to Travel: Avoid costly and time-consuming international travel for visa stamping.
  • Seamless Transition: Continue working in the U.S. without interruption during the process.
  • Faster Integration: COS allows quicker integration into the company's U.S. operations.

Transitioning from L1 Visa to Green Card

L1 Visa to Green Card – Pathways and Process

Transitioning from an L1 visa to green card is one of the most straightforward processes in U.S. immigration, particularly for L1A visa holders, if all the requirements are met. The L1 visa to green card processing time varies based on the type of L1 visa and the employment-based green card category pursued.

For executives and managers on L1A visas, the L1 visa to green card process often involves applying under the EB-1C (Multinational Manager or Executive) category, which bypasses labor certification. The L1B visa to green card pathway typically requires going through the PERM labor certification process, making the transition longer but achievable.


Can L1 Visa Holders Apply for a Green Card?

Yes, L1 visa holders can apply for a green card while working in the USA. The L1 visa’s dual intent nature allows holders to pursue permanent residency without risking their current status. This is particularly beneficial for those on L1A visas, where the transition to a green card is often faster.

The L1 visa green card process must be initiated by the employer. 


L1 Visa to Green Card Processing Time

The L1 visa to green card processing time varies depending on visa type:

  • L1A Visa to Green Card (EB-1C Category): 8 to 18 months (no PERM required)
  • L1B Visa to Green Card (EB-2/EB-3 Category): 18 to 48 months (PERM labor certification required)

Applicants from countries like India and China may experience longer L1 visa green card waiting times due to visa bulletin backlogs. This can significantly extend the wait time for L1 visa to green card for Indian/Chinese applicants.


From L1 Visa to Green Card – Step by Step

  1. File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker):
    • For L1A visa to green card applicants, the employer files this petition under the EB-1C category.
    • For L1B visa to green card applicants, the employer files under EB-2 or EB-3.
  2. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485):
    • If the visa is current, applicants can concurrently file Form I-485 for adjustment of status.
    • If the applicant is outside the U.S., consular processing is necessary.
  3. Await Approval:
    • Once the adjustment is approved, the applicant officially transitions from L1 visa to green card status.

Can You Apply for Green Card on L1 Visa Without Employer Sponsorship?

While most L1 visa to green card cases require employer sponsorship, certain applicants may qualify for self-petition green cards, such as the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver). This allows some individuals to bypass employer requirements and apply directly.


L1 Visa to Green Card for Indian Applicants

The L1 visa to green card for Indian nationals often faces longer waiting periods due to visa bulletin backlogs. This can extend the L1 visa green card waiting time to several years, especially for those applying under EB-2 or EB-3 categories.

To mitigate delays, L1A visa holders are encouraged to pursue the EB-1C category, which typically has shorter wait times compared to other employment-based visas.


Green Card Services by Kulen Law Firm

At Kulen Law Firm, we specialize in guiding clients through the complex transition from L1 visa to green card. Our expert legal team has helped numerous executives, managers, and specialized knowledge employees successfully navigate the L1 visa to green card processing time and achieve permanent residency in the USA.

Our Services Include:

  1. Comprehensive Case Evaluation:
    • We assess your eligibility for L1A visa to green card or L1B visa to green card pathways, ensuring the most efficient route for permanent residency.
    • For L1 visa to green card for Indian applicants, we strategize around visa bulletin backlogs to expedite the process where possible.
  2. Help Establishing a company in the U.S

 We guide you through the process of setting up a company in the U.S., offering support on business formation, legal requirements, and compliance. Our goal is to ensure your business is properly structured to meet L1 visa eligibility and immigration requirements.

At Kulen Law Firm, we provide comprehensive services to assist clients in company setup in the USA, ensuring that your business is strategically structured to meet L1 visa eligibility and U.S. immigration requirements.

Whether you are looking to form an LLC in the USA, incorporate a business, or establish a corporation, our legal team guides you through every stage of the process – from initial company registration to compliance with U.S. laws.

Our Company Establishment Services Include:

  • LLC Formation in the USA:
    • We assist with registering Limited Liability Companies (LLC), ensuring the appropriate structure to support your L1 visa or business immigration goals.
    • Guidance on operating agreements, tax requirements, and state filings to ensure legal compliance.
  • Business Incorporation (Inc.) in the USA:
    • Our team facilitates corporate formation for clients needing to incorporate in the USA, aligning the process with L1 visa requirements.
    • We handle articles of incorporation, EIN registration, and state-specific requirements to ensure a smooth setup.
  • U.S. Business Registration for L1 Visa Applicants:
    • We streamline the company establishment process for L1 visa applicants, ensuring your entity meets immigration standards and provides a strong foundation for your visa petition.
    • Assistance with business plans, office leases, and employee structuring to support visa applications.

Why Set Up a Company in the U.S. with Kulen Law Firm?

  • Experience in Business Immigration: Our dual expertise in immigration and business law ensures that your company formation aligns with both U.S. corporate laws and L1 visa requirements.
  • Customized Solutions: We tailor our approach based on your business goals, whether it's LLC formation or corporate registration for larger ventures.
  • Compliance and Legal Support: From tax identification numbers (EIN) to state filings, we ensure your business meets all U.S. regulatory requirements.
By choosing Kulen Law Firm to assist with company establishment in the USA, you lay the groundwork for successful L1 visa applications and long-term business success.
  1. PERM Labor Certification Assistance:
    • For L1B visa to green card applicants, we handle the complex PERM labor certification process, ensuring accurate filings and faster approvals.
  2. Form I-140 and I-485 Filing:
    • We manage every step of filing the I-140 immigrant petition and Form I-485 for adjustment of status, minimizing errors and delays.
    • For L1 visa to green card without employer sponsorship, we explore National Interest Waivers (NIW) or other self-petition options.
  3. Consular Processing Support:
    • For applicants transitioning from L1 visa to green card outside the U.S., we provide consular processing services, ensuring a smooth interview and approval process.
  4. Green Card Waiting Time Management:
    • We keep clients informed about their L1 visa green card waiting time and visa bulletin updates to avoid unnecessary delays.

Why Choose Kulen Law Firm?

  • 20+ Years of Experience in U.S. immigration and business law.
  • Track Record of Success with L1A visa to green card and L1B visa to green card cases.
  • Client-Centered Approach – We prioritize personalized service, keeping you informed at every stage.
  • Tailored Solutions – From can L1 visa apply for green card questions to long-term residency planning, we offer custom solutions for each client.
Ready to transition from your L1 visa to green card?
Contact Kulen Law Firm today for a consultation and let us simplify your path to permanent residency.

L1 Visa FAQ’s

What is an L1 Visa?

The L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows multinational companies to transfer employees from their foreign offices to branches in the USA. It applies to executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge. This visa helps companies expand operations and retain essential talent in their U.S. offices.

Is L1 Visa a Non-Immigrant Visa?

Yes, the L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that grants temporary residence in the USA for work-related purposes. Despite its non-immigrant classification, the L1 visa allows for dual intent, meaning applicants can pursue permanent residency while maintaining their non-immigrant status.

Is L1 Visa Dual Intent?

Yes, the L1 visa is considered dual intent, allowing holders to apply for a green card (permanent residency) without affecting their L1 status. This feature makes the L1 visa one of the most attractive options for long-term employment and relocation to the USA.

Is L1 Visa Resident Alien?

L1 visa holders are generally classified as non-resident aliens for tax purposes unless they meet the Substantial Presence Test (spending at least 183 days in the USA within a calendar year). Upon obtaining a green card, L1 holders are reclassified as resident aliens.

How to Get an L1 Visa?

To obtain an L1 visa, the employer must file Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year within the past three years and be transferred to the USA in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.

Can I Apply for an L1 Visa While in the USA?

Yes, if you are already in the USA under another visa status, you can apply for a Change of Status (COS) to L1 by filing Form I-129. If COS is not an option, you will need to apply at a U.S. consulate abroad and re-enter the USA on the new L1 visa.

How Long is L1 Visa Valid?

The validity of an L1 visa depends on the type:

  • L1A Visa (Executives and Managers): Up to 3 years, extendable to a maximum of 7 years.
  • L1B Visa (Specialized Knowledge): Up to 3 years, extendable to a maximum of 5 years.

For new office petitions, the initial stay is limited to 1 year.

Can L1 Visa Be Transferred to Another Company?

No, the L1 visa cannot be transferred to another employer. However, if the new company is an affiliate, parent, or subsidiary of the original employer, a new L1 petition can be filed to facilitate the transfer.

Can L1 Visa Holders Apply for a Green Card?

Yes, L1 visa holders can apply for a green card while working in the USA.

  • L1A Visa Holders often apply for the EB-1C (Multinational Manager or Executive) green card category, which does not require labor certification.
  • L1B Visa Holders typically apply under the EB-2 or EB-3 categories, which may require PERM labor certification.
Can You Apply for a Green Card on L1 Visa?

Yes, the dual intent nature of the L1 visa allows for a seamless green card application process without affecting the L1 status.

Can L1 Visa Spouse Work?

Yes, spouses of L1 visa holders receive L2 visas, which allow them to work in the USA. They are issued an I-94 with L2S status, which allows them to work for any employer without the need of an EAD

Can L2 Visa Holder Stay in the USA Without L1?

Yes, L2 visa holders can remain in the USA even if the L1 visa holder is temporarily outside the country. However, their stay is generally tied to the validity of the principal L1 visa.

L1 Visa Dependent Can Work?

L2 spouses can work in the USA, but L2 children cannot engage in employment.

Do L1 Visa Holders Pay Social Security Tax?

Yes, L1 visa holders are required to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes while working in the USA, similar to U.S. citizens and residents.

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