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L-1 Visas


The L-1 visas are two types of visas a corporation can use to transfer specialty workers, managers or executives to the United States. 

The L-1 visas are two types of visas a corporation can use to transfer specialty workers, managers or executives to the United States. L-1 visas are complex and their adjudication by USCIS is rigorous. 

Employee qualifications for L-1 Visas

You must have a qualifying employer who can sponsor you. Your employer is considered the petitioner, and you are considered the beneficiary.

You must also meet certain qualifications to be eligible. You must have worked with the employer for a full year within the last three years before you apply. You must also be considered an executive, manager, or staff member with specialized knowledge.

Business owners can apply for an L-1 visa, which allow U.S. business development without considerable investment.

New office petitions & special rules

If you are opening a new office in the United States, your L-1 petitions will face more scrutiny. You also have additional rules to follow. These cases are especially complex and the supporting documents required to support the petition are often voluminous.

Switching from L-1B to L-1A or Green Card

You may want to switch from an L-1B visa to an L-1A in order to and take advantage of the L-1A’s longer term of stay upon renewal. Your employer must petition for your new visa before your first one expires. Also those in L-1A status often consider changing to employment-based (first preference) to secure a green card.

Contact us to explore these options. 

Family of L-1 Workers

If you receive an L-1A or L-1B visa, your spouse and children may live with you in the United States. Children are under 21 and unmarried.

How can Amaryllis Law help?

Over the last few years, the USCIS has become more strict with and critical of L-1A and L-1B visa petitions. Foreign companies and U.S. companies must be more careful about their applications. Amaryllis Law can give you the best chance of success, from ensuring your employee qualifies as having special knowledge, to walking them through the green card process.

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