Are you an individual or a business looking to do business in the United States? If so, you may need to obtain an L1 or L2 visa. In this guide, we’ll provide you with detailed information about the L1 and L2 visas, including their requirements, benefits, and limitations.

Key Takeaways:

• L1 visas are for intracompany transferees, while L2 visas are for their dependents.
• To obtain an L1 visa, you must have been employed with a foreign company for at least one continuous year within the last three years.
• L2 visa holders are allowed to work in the U.S. with proper authorization.
• L1 and L2 visas allow for dual intent, meaning that individuals can pursue permanent residency while on these visas.
• L2 visa holders can attend school in the U.S.
• Businesses can use L1 visas to open a new branch or subsidiary in the U.S. or send employees to work for an existing U.S. branch.

Requirements for L1 Visas

L1 visas are for intracompany transferees, meaning that the visa holder is being transferred from a foreign company to a U.S. company that is affiliated with the foreign company. To be eligible for an L1 visa, the applicant must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the last three years.

Additionally, the applicant must be coming to the U.S. to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity. The U.S. company must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign company, such as being a subsidiary, affiliate, or branch of the foreign company.

Benefits of L1 Visas

One of the main benefits of L1 visas is that they allow for dual intent. This means that individuals can pursue permanent residency (a green card) while on an L1 visa. Additionally, L1 visa holders can bring their dependents (spouse and children under the age of 21) to the U.S. on L2 visas. L2 visa holders are allowed to work in the U.S. with proper authorization.

If an L1 visa holder wants to open a new branch or subsidiary in the U.S., they can use the L1 visa to do so. Additionally, if a U.S. company has an existing foreign branch, they can use the L1 visa to send employees to work for the U.S. branch.

Requirements for L2 Visas

L2 visas are for the dependents of L1 visa holders. This includes the spouse and children under the age of 21. To be eligible for an L2 visa, the dependent must be able to provide proof of the relationship to the L1 visa holder.

Benefits of L2 Visas

One of the main benefits of L2 visas is that they allow for the dependent to attend school in the U.S. Additionally, L2 visa holders are allowed to work in the U.S. with proper authorization.

Differences Between L1 and L2 Visas

The main difference between L1 and L2 visas is that L1 visas are for intracompany transferees, while L2 visas are for their dependents. Additionally, L1 visa holders must be coming to the U.S. to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity, while L2 visa holders can work in any capacity with proper authorization.

Is it Easy to Get an L1 or L2 Visa?

Getting an L1 or L2 visa can be a complicated process, and it’s important to work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that your application is complete and accurate. In some cases, the U.S. company may need to obtain approval from the U.S. government to sponsor the L1 visa holder.

Conclusion

L1 and L2 visas can be an excellent way for individuals and businesses to do business in the United States. They allow for dual intent, and L2 visa holders are allowed to work in the U.S. with proper authorization. While the application process can be complex, working with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure that everything is done correctly.

FAQ

What is an L1 visa?

An L1 visa is for intracompany transferees, meaning that the visa holder is being transferred from a foreign company to a U.S. company that is affiliated with the foreign company.

What is an L2 visa?

An L2 visa is for the dependents of L1 visa holders. This includes the spouse and children under the age of 21.

Can L2 visa holders work in the U.S.?

Yes, L2 visa holders are allowed to work in the U.S. with proper authorization.

Can L1 visa holders open a new branch in the U.S.?

Yes, L1 visa holders can use the visa to open a new branch or subsidiary in the U.S.