Need A Temporary Non-Immigrant Work Visa? Call Our Immigration Law Firm

Are you an intra company transferee? If you work for a multinational company abroad, you might qualify for this interesting non-immigrant work visa. Immigrants that often apply for an L-1 intend to work out of a US-based branch or affiliate company. It’s also applicable when companies are in the process of expanding business to the United States as well.

Because there is no cap on the number of L-1 visas each year, it has become a desirable way to travel between companies. This article outlines crucial information, including eligibility requirements, how to get started with the process, and when to sit down with a visa lawyer for non-immigrants.

Who Is Eligible for an L1 Visa?

Applicants tend to apply for an L-1 visa after much consideration. To become eligible workers must have been employed outside the U.S. by the sponsoring company for a year. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will examine the applicant’s employment history over the last three years, including the reasoning behind the transfer. Here are a few highlights below:

• L-1A visas are designated for c-suite executives, managers.
• L-1B visas are for employees with specialized skills and knowledge.
• Visa holders cannot travel to work for just any company – it must be an affiliate company, partner, or division of a non-U.S. business.
• Return dates are mandatory! Applicants cannot apply for a green card or plan for naturalization without an executive or managerial position and a sponsoring employer. Unlike other visas, additional authentication is not needed.

Additional Benefits of L-1 and L-2 Visa

• L-1 visas allow qualifying applicants to work in the U.S. for up to three years
• There are multiple chances to extend them for up to two years – but cannot exceed seven years (manager) or five years (workers with specialized knowledge)
• If you’ve held an H visa, your time in the U.S. will get counted toward the seven to five year maximum.
• L-1 visa holders must work full-time when they get to the United States – fewer hours are not permitted.
• L-1 visa holders must only be employed by a U.S. employer (visa sponsor and partner/parent company).
• Category L-2 is designated for accompanying spouses and children younger than 18 years of age.
• It’s possible to travel in and outside the country with an L-1 visa until it expires.

How Can I Get an L-1 Visa in The United States?

To obtain an L-1 visa, you must meet the eligibility requirements. Specific qualifications depend on what one’s role is at the company. More specifically, the USCIS has particular definitions of what they consider as manager, executive, or someone with specialized knowledge. Keep in mind that they are not going to be fully accurate. It’s best to consult with an immigration lawyer to verify your status before applying.

Manager

Defined as someone who manages an entire organization or department. The designated person will supervise and oversee all projects, assignments, and tasks. They have the power to make employment decisions for the company. In most cases, they answer to senior-level executives.

Executive

Executives direct all management of the organization or company. They are responsible for overseeing company goals and policies. Unlike managers, they possess the ability to make decisions for the well-being of staff and company. Higher-level execs, board of directors, trustees, and stockholders often supervise them.

Specialized Knowledge

This employee has a firm and broad knowledge of company products, services, equipment, and interest in international markets. The USCIS will assess what the applicant knows that might be different/new, knowledge related to the company.

To get an L-1 visa, you’ll need to receive a transfer offer within the company. Typically, your employer will pay the fees associated with Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker). Because this process is so intricate, it’s best to consult with an immigration lawyer.

About Grey Law Immigration

At Grey Immigration, the values of integrity, honesty, commitment, and results are at the foundation of our firm.

David Grey provides experienced representation to safeguard your rights through the immigration process. Whether it is advice, assistance with visa applications, or resolving an issue that is stalling your citizenship, we are here to help. At Grey Law, we strive to help clients through complex processes for positive results. Our Los Angeles immigration lawyers are well-versed in more than several practice areas:

• Family-Based Immigration
• Employment-Based Immigration
• Naturalization and Citizenship
• Permanent Residency and Green Card
• Deportation and Removal
• Immigrational Appeals
• Non-Immigrant Visas
• Criminal Victim Visa

In the past year, COVID-19 has drastically impacted citizenship in the U.S. We have been able to adjust and act accordingly based on new restrictions and regulations. Our firm optimizes individual skills to produce superior results for all clients. For a free case review, give us a call at 323-622-1764 or email info@greylaw.com.