L-1A

The L-1A visa is a type of visa that allows multinational companies to transfer their executives or managers to their branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates in the United States. This visa category falls under the broader category of non-immigrant visas, which means that it is temporary and does not grant permanent residency or citizenship.

The L-1A visa is beneficial for both companies and employees. It allows multinational companies to bring their key personnel to the U.S. to oversee operations, establish new branches, or manage existing ones. This visa category also provides an opportunity for employees to gain international experience and work in a different cultural and business environment.

Qualifications for L-1A Visa

To be eligible for an L-1A visa, the applicant must have been employed by the company for at least one continuous year within the past three years. The applicant must also be seeking to enter the U.S. to provide executive or managerial services for the same employer or a qualifying organization in a managerial or executive capacity.

Securing an L-1A Visa

There are multiple steps involved in securing an L-1A visa. The employer must first file a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the employee. The petition should include relevant documents, such as the following:

• Proof of the employer-employee relationship
• Evidence of the company’s qualifying relationship,
• Detailed job description of the executive or managerial position
• Evidence of the employee’s qualification for the position, including organizational charts and proof of their executive or managerial functions

Then, once the petition is approved, the employee can proceed with the visa application. This involves submitting the necessary forms, paying the required fees, and attending an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. During the interview, the consular officer will evaluate the employee’s qualifications and determine their eligibility for the L-1A visa.

At FL-ILC, we can help you navigate the often-complex L-1A process so that you can bring your best and brightest executives and managers to the U.S. to share their leadership skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my spouse work?

Yes. The spouse in valid L-2 status is authorized to work in the United States and does not need to obtain a separate employment authorization document. Dependent children are not authorized to work based on their L-2 status.

Can I self-sponsor for an L-1A?

No. You cannot self-sponsor for an L-1A visa, since a qualifying U.S. employer must file the petition on your behalf.

What prior employment experience do I need to qualify for L-1A status?

You generally need to have worked abroad for a qualifying organization for at least one continuous year within the relevant three-year period and must be coming to the United States to work in a managerial or executive capacity.

Can my employer sponsor me for a Green Card while I hold L-1A status?

Yes. Your U.S. employer can initiate the permanent resident process while you hold L-1A status. If you qualify for permanent residence status under the EB-1C multinational manager or executive category, your employer does not need to complete the PERM recruitment and labor certification process before filing the immigrant petition.