Key takeaways
- The L-1 is for intra-company transfers between related companies.
- You generally need one year of qualifying work abroad in the last three.
- L-1A is for managers/executives; L-1B for specialized knowledge.
The L-1 visa lets multinational companies transfer certain employees to the United States. If your company has a U.S. office (or is opening one), this may be your path. Here is who qualifies and what you will need to show.
The Core Requirements
- A qualifying relationship between the companies — parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch.
- One continuous year of employment with the related company abroad within the past three years.
- A qualifying role both abroad and in the U.S. — managerial, executive, or specialized-knowledge.
The Two Types
- L-1A — Managers and Executives. For those who manage the organization, a department, or a function, or who set direction at a senior level.
- L-1B — Specialized Knowledge. For employees with special knowledge of the company's products, services, processes, or procedures that is not commonly held.
"The L-1 looks simple, but everything about it has to be proven — the company relationship, your year abroad, and the nature of your role."
What You Have to Prove
- Documents showing the corporate relationship (ownership, control)
- Proof of your year of employment abroad and your role there
- A clear description of your U.S. role and why it qualifies
- For L-1B, concrete evidence of what makes your knowledge specialized
Good to Know
- New U.S. offices can use the L-1, with extra requirements and shorter initial approval.
- L-1A and L-1B have different maximum stays.
- L-1A can pair well with a manager/executive green card path later.
- Your spouse and children may qualify for L-2 status, and L-2 spouses are generally allowed to work.
A general guide, not legal advice.
Immigration rules and fees change, and every case is different. For help with your specific situation, talk to a licensed immigration attorney before you act.
