L-1A / L-1B
For multinational managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge transferring to a U.S. office
Read about Frequently Asked Questions below.
Case Approvals
General Process
L-1A
Qualifications: Demonstrate qualifying relationships between foreign and U.S. entities
Eligibility: Employer must have qualifying relationship between U.S. Entities and the employee must have worked at least 1 year in the entity. The employee must have held the position of managerial or executive capacity at the company.
Petition: Employer
1. Filing the Form I-129 – Filing the I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) & Supporting documents
2. DS-160 – Employee completes the form (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
3. Visa Interview – Employee schedules and attends a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
L-1B
Qualifications: Demonstrate qualifying relationship between foreign and U.S. entities.
Eligibility: Employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year and possesses specialized knowledge of the company's product, services, or procedures.
Petition: Employer
1. Filing the Form I-129 – Filing the I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) & Supporting documents
2. DS-160 – Employee completes the form (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
3. Visa Interview – Employee schedules and attends a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
FAQ
What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?
Both visas are for intracompany transfers. L-1A visas are for managers and executives. L-1B visas are for employees with specialized knowledge.