The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers (L-1A), or employees with specialized knowledge (L-1B) from a foreign office to a U.S. office. It’s ideal for expanding businesses and corporate mobility.
The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers (L-1A), or employees with specialized knowledge (L-1B) from a foreign office to a U.S. office. It’s ideal for expanding businesses and corporate mobility.
Employee must have worked abroad for at least 1 continuous year within the past 3 years
Employer must have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, affiliate)
Position must be executive, managerial, or require specialized knowledge
U.S. and foreign offices must be actively doing business
Employment verification letter from foreign company
Organizational charts and job descriptions
Proof of qualifying relationship between U.S. and foreign entities
Evidence of continuous employment abroad for at least 1 year in the last 3 years
Form I-129 and L classification supplement
Business plans or lease agreements for new U.S. offices (if applicable)
Standard Processing: 2–4 months
Premium Processing: 15 calendar days
Base Filing Fee (Form I-129): $460
Fraud Prevention Fee: $500
American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) Fee (if applicable): $4,500
Premium Processing (optional): $2,805