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L1-A, L1-B Visa, and Intracompany Transferees
L-1 Visas are used by multinational companies to transfer foreign employees to a U.S. company with a parent, an affiliate, or a subsidiary relationship. These visas can also be used by foreign companies with a U.S. branch office or who wish to open such an office. The transferred employee must have continuously worked for the foreign business for at least one year in the three years preceding the date of the application. Employees may qualify for L-1A visas if they enter the U.S. to work in the capacity of an executive or manager , directing the overall management or an essential function of the organization. Employees may qualify for L-1B visas if their work requires specialized knowledge of the company product and its application in the international markets or has an advanced level of knowledge of processes and procedures of the company. L-1 visas can also used by a business owner who intends to start a branch or a subsidiary of an existing business in his or her home country. However, the foreign company or business must continue operation in the home country when the foreign employee is transferred to the U.S.
The L-1A visa is initially approved for three years but can be extended for up to seven years. The L-1B visa can only be extended for up to five years. L-1 visas for new enterprises in the US are initially granted for only one year, and can then be extended.
The L is a "dual intent" visa meaning that the foreign employee is not required to maintain a permanent residence abroad and may pursue other applications for permanent residence during their L-1 stay. Holders of L-1A visas may apply for Permanent Residence as Multinational Executives or Managers in the First Preference Category without going through the Labor Certification process. Holders of L-1B visas must normally apply for Labor Certification before qualifying for Permanent Residence.
Whether you or your company has a branch, a parent, an affiliate, or a subsidiary in the U.S. currently, or you are planning for one, our office can assist you with effective solutions to your immigration needs. We will provide full service legal representation and prepare the entire package for your visa application.
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