L-1 Visa
For multinational companies transferring executives, managers, or specialized employees to a U.S. office.
2-6 months
Processing Time
Up to 7 years (L-1A) or 5 years (L-1B)
Duration
Overview
The L-1 visa enables multinational companies to transfer key employees from foreign offices to the United States. There are two subcategories: L-1A for executives and managers, and L-1B for workers with specialized knowledge of the company's products, services, or procedures.
To qualify, the employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year within the last three years. The U.S. office must be a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch of the foreign company. The L-1 can also be used to open a new U.S. office.
L-1A visa holders can stay for up to 7 years total, while L-1B holders are limited to 5 years. A significant advantage of the L-1A is that it provides a direct path to an EB-1C green card without requiring PERM labor certification.
Key Requirements
- You've worked for the company abroad for at least 1 year in the past 3 years
- You work in an executive or managerial role (L-1A)
- You have specialized knowledge of company products or procedures (L-1B)
- Your company has a qualifying relationship with a U.S. entity
- You'll be working in a similar capacity in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
L-1A is for executives and managers who primarily direct the organization or a major function. L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge of the company's products, services, research, or management. L-1A allows up to 7 years stay and an easier green card path, while L-1B is limited to 5 years.
Yes, the L-1 visa can be used to establish a new U.S. office. The initial visa is granted for only 1 year, during which the company must demonstrate it's actively doing business. Extensions depend on showing the office is operational and growing.
No, unlike H-1B, there is no prevailing wage requirement for L-1 visas. However, the employee must be paid appropriately for their executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position.
Yes, L-2 dependent spouses are automatically eligible for work authorization. They can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and work for any employer in the U.S. without restrictions.
No, unlike H-1B, the L-1 visa is not subject to annual numerical caps. Employers can file L-1 petitions year-round, and there is no lottery process.
L-1 Visa Roadmap
A comprehensive guide to the L-1 intracompany transferee visa for managers, executives, and specialized knowledge employees.
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In their own words
I cannot say enough wonderful things about the entire team at Serotte Law, and how seamless they made my process in obtaining my nonimmigrant E1 Treaty Trader visa. I had the distinct pleasure of working with Rita Georges as my lawyer and Brenna Scanlon as my paralegal, both of whom offered incredible guidance through every step of the process. They both went out of their way to provide support not only outside standard business hours, but even during the Thanksgiving weekend when an urgent matter arose in my case. Danielle Roberts also played an important role supporting me throughout my journey and her dedication and timeliness were invaluable. Although the process was backlogged due to delays related to the pandemic, the entire team was continually in touch with me providing updates and any time I had a question (and there were many) I received a response almost instantly. Truly "white-glove", five star service from start to finish. Of note, the firm is especially skilled in working with entrepreneurs such as myself and was extremely detailed and meticulous in assembling my application package, leaving no detail to chance. In the instance I needed a referral to a business plan expert, they were quick to provide a recommendation with whom I also had an outstanding experience. Even for some unexpected issues in my case (namely, administrative processing) the entire team was both knowledgeable and supportive about what needed to be done such that I was ultimately successfully issued my E1. Your search for a law firm ends here.
Adam Haroun
Google Review
Prompt, efficient and proactive professionals, while being communicative and transparent every step of the way!! But most importantly, kind, compassionate and responsible. That is how I would describe Serotte Law(yers), in the true sense of every word!! I switched over to Serotte law 5 years ago, and as we all know switching law firms is a more tedious process than starting afresh, but Brenna made it seamless for me. Brenna Scanlon, their Managing paralegal is a highly qualified immigration expert, extremely well versed in her field of knowledge, and all of this while being a kind and compassionate human being. I don’t know of any other law firm that will call you after hours but these guys will. They will treat your sense of urgency as their own and that’s what stands them apart from the plethora of immigration lawyers out there!! Rita George’s, a highly capable and forthcoming lawyer, a solution finder, will guide you smoothly through every situation, every step of the way!! Immigration applicants tend to face many interrelated issues as well, but Serotte law guides you to the best of their ability there too, and if it’s not their forte they will refer you to the best of the best in the business - kinda like a concierge service!!! Thank you once again to team Serotte, Rita George’s, Brenna Scanlon, Danielle Roberts, Asia Battle, Mike Farrell, and everybody else for your able guidance and services.
KHANNA, Sahil
Google Review
I have had the pleasure of working with Serotte Law for the past 10+ years, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. From the very beginning, they have provided exceptional support and guidance through every step of my US immigration journey. Initially, Serotte Law assisted me with obtaining and renewing my L-1A visas. Their deep understanding of immigration law and meticulous attention to detail ensured a smooth and successful application process. Over the years, they have consistently demonstrated their expertise and dedication, making what could have been a stressful experience remarkably manageable. Most recently, Serotte Law helped me achieve a significant milestone: obtaining my green card. Their unwavering commitment and personalized approach were instrumental in this success. The team at Serotte Law, specifically Rita Georges and Asia Battle, is not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly responsive and compassionate, always taking the time to address my concerns and keep me informed. If you are seeking reliable and professional assistance for your US immigration needs, look no further than Serotte Law. Their proven track record, coupled with their client-focused approach, makes them the ideal choice. I am immensely grateful for their support and wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone navigating the complexities of US immigration.
Bryan Shapcott
Google Review
I have worked with quite a few immigration attorneys in the last 7 years, and the team at Serotte Law is one of the best I have encountered. As an immigrant that requires work authorization to live in the US, immigration is always on my mind, and I am always stressing about it to some degree. This changed after my firm hired the team at Serotte Law. They handled my H1B transfer, PERM, I-140, and H1B Extension applications flawlessly. They guided me and my company through every step of the process and make sure we were on-track to meet the deadlines. My timeline to procure the I-140 was pretty tight. As such, Susan and team wasted no time in getting all the document in order, and staying on top of the case in the last 18 months. I received regular status updates, prompt email responses, and complete transparency in the process at every step of the way. I would 100% recommend hiring this team for all your work based immigration needs.
Dhaval Bajaria
Google Review
Resources
L-1 Visa Roadmap
A comprehensive guide to the L-1 intracompany transferee visa for managers, executives, and specialized knowledge employees.
The FY 2027 H-1B Lottery: Weighted Selection Based on Wage Level
Conor Schneider
H-1B Visa Roadmap
A comprehensive guide to the H-1B specialty occupation visa, covering eligibility requirements, the cap and lottery process, filing documentation, admission periods, and key strategies for employers and foreign professionals.
Immigration Law Firm AI — How We Think About It at Serotte
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Rita Georges
The Alien Registration Requirement Explained
Immigration law is narrative problem solving
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Michael Serotte
The “Gold Card” Is Coming
Katja FrommerReady to get started?
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