L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa

L-1A vs. L-1B

The L-1 visa has two categories: • L-1A — For executives and managers being transferred to a U.S. office. Valid for up to 7 years and provides a direct path to an EB-1C Green Card. • L-1B — For employees with specialized knowledge of the company's products, processes, or procedures. Valid for up to 5 years. Both categories require that the employee has worked for the foreign company for at least 1 continuous year within the last 3 years.

Qualifying Relationship

The U.S. and foreign entities must have a qualifying relationship as a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. I help companies establish and document this relationship clearly, avoiding common pitfalls that lead to denials.

New Office L-1

Starting a new U.S. office? The L-1 'New Office' petition allows companies to transfer an executive or manager to open and manage a new U.S. location. Initial approval is for 1 year, extendable once the office is operational. I've helped dozens of international companies establish their U.S. presence through this pathway.

My Process

1. Corporate Structure Review — I analyze the qualifying relationship between entities 2. Position Analysis — I evaluate whether the role genuinely qualifies as executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge 3. Evidence Assembly — I compile organizational charts, job descriptions, and financial documentation 4. Petition Filing — I prepare and file the I-129 with supporting evidence 5. Extension & Green Card Planning — I advise on long-term strategy, including EB-1C eligibility