If you work in a company with an international presence or are a professional with specialized skills, the L-1 Visa could be your gateway to the United States
The L-1 visa is a non-immigrant option that facilitates the transfer of high ranking employees from foreign multinational companies, to related companies within the United States, to perform temporary functions.
This visa allows international companies to transfer a manager, executive, or individual with specialized knowledge to a U.S. company, if the U.S. company is a branch, parent company, subsidiary, or affiliates of the foreign company. There are 2 types: L-1A visa and L-1B visa.
To qualify for an L-1 visa, both the employee (visa applicant) and the employer (sponsor) must meet specific L-1 visa eligibility requirements. Here are the general eligibility criteria for the L-1 visa:
A Belgium-based technology company applies for an L-1 Visa for an executive who oversees vital operations within the company, to manage and expand a branch of the company in the United States. The application package emphasizes the qualifications and specialized knowledge of the executive crucial to the new venture.
The expenses associated with the L-1 visa are variable and depend on factors such as the type of visa (L-1A or L-1B), the type of petition (new or extension), and whether premium processing is chosen.
The L-1 visa offers important advantages:
To apply for an L-1 visa, collaboration between the sponsoring employer and the applicant is crucial.
The sponsoring employer initiates the process by filing Form I-129 with USCIS, detailing the job position, establishing the qualifying relationship between the foreign and U.S. entities, and demonstrating the beneficiary's eligibility.
The employer pays the government's filing fees, including any additional fees. Once the I-129 petition is approved, the applicant completes the DS-160 application, pays the visa application fee, and schedules an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
The interview requires specific documents, such as a valid passport and proof of job offer. This meticulous process ensures a complete and documented L-1 visa application.
In summary, L-1 Visas are a valuable tool for international labor mobility. At Symphorien-Saavedra Law, we understand the complexity of immigration processes. Our founder, immigration attorney Frank Symphorien-Saavedra, is certified as an expert in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Florida Bar, and will be happy to guide you through your immigration process. If you are ready to take the next step, do not hesitate to contact us at 407-802-1717 to schedule a consultation for advice from expert L-1 visa attorneys!