L-1 visa for intracompany transferees
The purpose of L-1 visa, often referred to as an intra company transfer visa, is to enable a US employer to transfer qualified employees from one of its affiliated foreign offices to one of its offices in the US. This visa also enables a foreign company without an office in the US to send an executive to the US to establish one. The L-1 visa helps US companies to maintain competitiveness on the international market and to increase US exports.
Who can apply for this work visa?
This visa is available to executives, senior managers or employees with specific knowledge and skillset. In order to fulfil L-1 visa requirements, the applicant must be a full-time employee of this company for at least 12 calendar months prior to the application.
Employer Requirements
The employer must either be a parent company, branch, subsidiary or affiliate of a foreigh company. It has to be currently doing business in the US as an employer. The foreign company has to control at least 50% of the subsidiary.
Duration of L-1 intra company transfer visa
Initially this visa is issued for a period of 1 to 3 years and can be extended. In case of a newly established company, L-1 visa is granted for one year. In case of an existing company, the visa can be approved for 3 years.
If a company in the USA has been operating for more than 1 year, then the L-1 visa can be issued immediately for 3 years.
Where to apply for L-1 visa
Before you apply for this work visa, the employer must file a petition on your behalf first. Once approved, this petition has to be sent to the US consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.
Spouses and children of the person getting the L-1 visa
Applicant’s family members will require to obtain L-2 visa, which allows to work in the US without restrictions.