Expanding your business to the United States can unlock immense opportunities—but only if you understand the right visa pathways. The L-1 visa is a powerful option for international companies seeking to transfer executives, managers, or specialized employees to a U.S. office. This guide explains how to successfully navigate the L-1 visa process with the help of a qualified immigration attorney.
What Is the L-1 Visa?
The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer employees from a foreign office to a related U.S. entity. There are two types: L-1A for executives and managers, and L-1B for employees with specialized knowledge. This visa category is commonly used when a company is opening a new office in the U.S. or relocating key staff.
To qualify, the U.S. and foreign offices must have a qualifying relationship, such as parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate. The employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year within the last three years before entering the U.S.
Benefits of the L-1 Visa
The L-1 visa offers several advantages:
- No annual cap like H-1B visas
- Dual intent (you can pursue a green card while on an L-1)
- L-2 visas for dependents, with work authorization for spouses
- Up to 7 years of stay for L-1A and 5 years for L-1B holders
The L-1 is also one of the few visas that supports new U.S. office expansions, making it ideal for growing global companies.
Why Work with an Immigration Attorney?
L-1 applications can be complex. You’ll need to provide extensive documentation of the company’s structure, the employee’s qualifications, and the relationship between entities. Small mistakes or unclear documentation can lead to delays or denials.
This is where experienced legal guidance makes a difference. Working with a law firm like Davies & Associates ensures that your petition is thoroughly prepared, aligns with USCIS standards, and reflects the business’s long-term goals.
Immigration attorneys also assist with:
- Drafting organizational charts and business plans
- Verifying employment history and qualifying relationships
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Preparing for interviews (if applicable)
Attorney Mark I Davies, Esq., of Davies & Associates, has helped hundreds of clients secure L-1 visas and navigate the nuances of U.S. immigration law. His team brings a business-savvy approach to legal strategy, combining legal knowledge with international commercial insight.
Key Steps to Obtain an L-1 Visa
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply:
- Assess Eligibility
Determine if your company and the employee meet the basic requirements. This includes verifying employment duration, company relationship, and job duties. - Gather Supporting Documentation
Collect documents proving the relationship between the entities, proof of employment, financial records, and a detailed description of the employee’s role in the U.S. - Prepare and File Form I-129
The U.S. employer must file Form I-129 with the L classification supplement. Include all supporting evidence and fees. - USCIS Review and Decision
USCIS may approve, deny, or issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Timely and comprehensive responses are critical. - Consular Processing or Change of Status
If the employee is outside the U.S., they’ll need to apply for the visa at a U.S. consulate. If already in the U.S., a change of status may be processed. - Enter and Begin Work
Once the visa is approved, the employee can travel to the U.S. and begin work at the designated office.
Final Thoughts
The L-1 visa is an excellent tool for businesses that want to scale operations across borders and bring key talent to the U.S. With the right preparation and legal support, it’s possible to secure approval and build a strong foundation for future immigration opportunities.
Navigating immigration regulations can be challenging, but understanding the process—and having the right team by your side—makes all the difference. If you’re considering the L-1 route, take the time to evaluate your company’s readiness and gather the right resources before applying.