What is an L-1A?

An L-1A is a foreign national entering the U.S. to perform work in management or executive duties. To obtain an L Visa (L-1 work visa ) the foreign national must prove to the satisfaction of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that he or she has:

1. Worked outside the U.S. for at least one year of the last three;
2. For the same corporation or firm, or for the branch office, affiliate, or subsidiary of the enterprise who employed him or her abroad;
3. In a management, executive, or special skill/knowledge capacity.

What is an L-1B?

An L-1B is a foreign national entering the U.S. to perform work in a specialized knowledge capacity. To obtain an L-1B work visa the foreign national must prove to the satisfaction of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that he or she has:

1. worked outside the U.S. for at least one year of the last three;
2. for the same corporation or firm, or for the branch office, affiliate, or subsidiary of the enterprise who employed him or her abroad;
3. in management, executive, or special skill/knowledge capacity.

What is an L blanket?

Certain multinational corporations can obtain approval of a blanket L petition. Some of the requirements include:

1. Business wanting the L blanket has been in business for one year or longer and has offices in the U.S.;
2. Petitioner works in commercial trade or services. It has 3 or more U.S. and foreign offices, affiliates, or subsidiaries.
3. US Workforce of at least 1000, sales of at least $25 million, or approved at least 10 petitions for L classification in the last year.

If approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the three-year approval makes the entities included in the petition "qualifying organizations." This approval can be extended indefinitely so long as the petitioner(s) meet the requirements. To enter the U.S. the foreign national must prove to the satisfaction of the consular officer (unless visa exempt) that he or she:

1. worked outside the U.S. for at least one year of the last three;
2. in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge (professional) capacity.

Can spouses and children live and work in the U.S.?

Admissible accompanying or following to join spouses and dependent children under 21 can live in the US during the same time period as the principal foreign national in L-2 status. Spouses can apply for employment authorization.  Family is allowed to bring domestic help if they meet certain regulatory requirements.

How can we help you?

We assist employers and individuals in complying with complex regulatory requirements. We analyze the clients' short and long term goals, and provide clients with a professional opinion regarding possible available options or best option available, and we assist individuals to qualify for L status. We will prepare documentation, review supporting documentation, file, and represent you before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Dept. of State. We will inform you of any changes in the law that may affect the petition we are filing as well as case developments such as a request for additional evidence. You can also log in to your e-file 24/7 to obtain the most current case status until the case is completed.

To learn if an L Visa is right for you, please contact Immigration Attorney Maria M. Cordon to schedule an immigration consultation.