L-1 Visa Transfers to the United States
L-1 visas are non-immigrant visas designed to allow companies to transfer employees from foreign offices to related United States offices. There are two types of L-1 visas: L-1A visas are designed for managers and executives while L-1B visas are designed for employees with specialized knowledge.
L-1 visas have specific eligibility requirements and require extensive documentation along with the application forms. Our attorneys at Premier Immigration Solutions, PLLC are here to help. We will be able to assist you in navigating the eligibility requirements to determine if you are good a candidate for a L-1 Visa, assist you in completing all the required paperwork and along with any required documentation and help you deal with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) throughout the entire process.
L-1 Visa Requirements
There are some specific requirements to be eligible for an L-1 visa of both varieties, among of which is that the U.S. company and the foreign company must have a qualifying relationship, such as being a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch. Additionally, the applicant must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the past year. Our attorneys will do their due diligence to ensure that you meet these requirements for an L-1 visa.
L-1A applicants are required to be coming to work in either a managerial or executive capacity while L-1B applicants must possess specialized knowledge. What is considered a managerial or executive position or specialized knowledge under USCIS can be complicated, however, our attorneys understand these rules and can help determine if you meet these requirements for L-1 visa purposes.
Additionally, if the applicant is coming to open a new U.S. based office, there may be additional requirements, but our attorneys can certainly assist with that as well.
Benefits of a L1 Visa
Some of the benefits of acquiring a L-1 Visa include:
- L-1 visas allow multinational companies to transfer employees from foreign offices to U.S. offices including managers and executives and employees with specialized knowledge.
- L-1 visa holders have a path to pursue permanent residency (Green Card) while in the U.S.
- Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may accompany L-1 visa holders and are eligible for L-2 visas, allowing them to work and study.
- L-1 visas offer flexible duration as they can be extended after the initial temporary residency period.
Process of applying for a L1 Visa and Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
The L1 visa application process begins with the U.S. based employer filing a petition with the USCIS on behalf of the foreign employee. This can be done through an attorney and there are many benefits to doing so including accurate document preparation.
Once the USCIS approves the employer petition, the employee can apply for an L1 Visa. This application will require the submission of specific USCIS forms and supporting documentation and require a visa interview. Our attorneys are familiar with the complex immigration laws and procedures and can help ensure that all requirements are met, and that the application is filed correctly.
Additionally, our attorneys will be there to provide legal advice tailored to your specific situation, addressing any potential challenges or issues that may arise. Our attorneys can help the process move smoother, avoiding unnecessary mistakes that are common, and help you to get started working in the United States as soon as possible. If you are in need of legal assistance for an L-1 visa, contact Premier Immigration Solutions, PLLC today!