L-1 Visa – Manager or Executive
L-1A Visa for Executives & Managers
The L-1A visa is designed for international companies looking to transfer key leadership talent to the U.S., including executives and managers. Whether expanding operations or launching a new U.S. office, this visa offers a streamlined way to bring essential personnel into the country.
Key Benefits of the L-1A Visa
- Live and work legally in the U.S.
- Initial stay up to 3 years (1 year for new offices), renewable to 7 years.
- Bring spouse and children under L-2 visa (spouses can work legally).
- No labor certification required for green card (EB-1C path).
- Available to small, medium, or large international companies.
Who Qualifies?
Employee must:
- Have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the last 3 years.
- Be entering the U.S. to work in a managerial or executive capacity.
Employer must:
- Have a qualifying relationship with a U.S. entity (branch, parent, affiliate).
- Be actively doing business in at least one country outside the U.S.
Starting a New Office in the U.S.?
The L-1A visa supports executives or managers launching new U.S. branches or subsidiaries.
Requirements include:
- Physical office space secured in the U.S.
- Business plan showing growth projections and organization structure.
- Proof of financial capacity to support the office and personnel.
Application Process
To apply for the L-1A visa:
- File Form I-129 with USCIS including all supporting evidence.
- Provide organizational charts, contracts, and employee credentials.
- Pay the current USCIS processing fee ($460, subject to change).
Large companies may qualify for a Blanket Petition, which simplifies future employee transfers by pre-approving the corporate relationship. In those cases, employees use Form I-129S and apply directly at the U.S. consulate.
L-2 Visas for Family
L-1A employees can bring their family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21):
- Spouses may work in the U.S. (EAD required).
- Children may study at any level.
- Family stays aligned with the L-1A visa period.
Validity & Extensions
- Initial stay: 1 year (new office) or 3 years (existing office)
- Extensions in 2-year increments up to 7 years total
- Dual intent: L-1A holders may apply for permanent residency
FAQs
Yes. The L-1A is a "dual intent" visa, which means you may apply for a green card without jeopardizing your L-1 status. Many applicants transition through the EB-1C category for executives and managers.
Executive capacity includes decision-making authority with minimal supervision. Managerial roles involve supervising other professionals or managing key company functions at a senior level.
You must either leave the U.S. or adjust your status (e.g., green card). The L-1A visa cannot be renewed beyond the 7-year cap.
Start Your L-1 Visa Journey
Let Luis F. Hess PLLC guide you every step of the way.
📍 282 Ed English Dr., Bldg 6 Unit D, The Woodlands, TX 77385
