If you are considering coming to the United States on an L1 visa, one of the most important things you need to consider is the cost. This guide will help you understand the different types of L1 visas, the legal fees involved, and other expenses you may incur during the application process.

Key takeaways

• The cost of an L1 visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for and the services of an L1 attorney.
• L1 visa legal fees can range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more.
• The L1 visa petition fee for companies with 50 or more employees is $805, while companies with fewer than 50 employees pay $555.
• If you plan to bring family members with you, you will need to pay additional fees for their visa applications.

Types of L1 visas

The L1 visa allows foreign workers to work in the United States for an American company that has a branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate in the worker’s home country. There are two types of L1 visas:

L1A visa

The L1A visa is for executives and managers who are being transferred to the United States to work for a company that has a branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate in their home country. The L1A visa is valid for up to seven years and allows the holder to apply for permanent residency (green card) after one year.

L1B visa

The L1B visa is for employees with specialized knowledge who are being transferred to the United States to work for a company that has a branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate in their home country. The L1B visa is valid for up to five years.

Legal fees

The cost of hiring an L1 visa attorney varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the petition, the attorney’s experience, and the attorney’s jurisdiction. L1 visa legal fees can range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more.

L1 visa attorneys typically charge a flat fee for their services. This fee covers the preparation of the visa application and supporting documentation, as well as legal representation throughout the application process.

Other expenses

In addition to legal fees, there are other expenses you may incur during the L1 visa application process. These include:

L1 visa petition fee

The L1 visa petition fee for companies with 50 or more employees is $805, while companies with fewer than 50 employees pay $555.

Premium processing fee

If you need your L1 visa application processed quickly, you can pay a premium processing fee of $1,440. This fee guarantees that USCIS will make a decision on your application within 15 calendar days.

Visa application fee

The visa application fee for L1 visas is $190. If you plan to bring family members with you, you will need to pay this fee for each person.

Conclusion

The cost of an L1 visa can be significant, but it is a necessary investment if you want to work in the United States. By understanding the different types of L1 visas, the legal fees involved, and other expenses, you can better plan for the costs associated with the application process.

FAQ

Q: Can I apply for an L1A visa if I am not an executive or manager?

A: No, the L1A visa is only available to executives and managers.

Q: Can I apply for an L1B visa if I don’t have specialized knowledge?

A: No, the L1B visa is only available to employees with specialized knowledge.

Q: Do I need an L1 visa attorney to apply for an L1 visa?

A: While it is not required to hire an L1 visa attorney, it is highly recommended. An attorney can ensure that your application is prepared correctly and can represent you if there are any issues during the application process.