L-1A Visa: Transfer Executives or Managers to the U.S.
The L-1A visa allows multinational companies to transfer key executives or managers from offices abroad to their U.S. branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates. It’s a powerful tool for global organizations to grow U.S. operations by relocating top leadership.
At U.S. Immigration Counsel, we help companies and professionals navigate the L-1A process with clarity, strategy, and compliance at every step.
What Is the L-1A Visa?
The L-1A is a nonimmigrant visa for executives and managers being transferred within the same corporate group to the U.S. It also allows foreign companies to send leadership to open a new U.S. office.
Though temporary, the L-1A visa provides a clear route to permanent residency (Green Card) through the EB-1C category, making it one of the most strategic options for long-term relocation.
Who Qualifies for the L-1A Visa?
To be eligible for the L-1A visa:
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The employee must have worked for the company outside the U.S. for at least 1 continuous year in the last 3 years
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The employee must be coming to the U.S. to serve in a managerial or executive role
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The U.S. office must have a qualifying corporate relationship with the foreign company (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate)
This visa is designed for true decision-makers—those who lead departments, direct strategy, and manage other professionals.
L-1A Visa Duration
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Initial stay:
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1 year if opening a new U.S. office
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Up to 3 years for transfers to existing offices
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Extensions available in 2-year increments
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Maximum total stay: 7 years
How to Apply for the L-1A Visa
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Employer files a petition (Form I-129) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
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Include key supporting documents such as:
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Proof of corporate relationship
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Job description outlining executive or managerial duties
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Organizational charts showing hierarchy
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Evidence of employment history abroad
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After approval, the employee applies for the visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad
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Attend a visa interview, where the officer will assess eligibility and intent
Can L-1A Lead to a Green Card?
Yes. The L-1A visa is one of the few nonimmigrant visas with a direct path to permanent residency. Many executives later apply for a Green Card under the EB-1C category, which does not require labor certification.
Our team can help structure your visa strategy with permanent residency in mind from the beginning.
Can Family Members Join You?
Yes. L-1A visa holders can bring:
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Spouse and children under 21 under the L-2 dependent visa
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Spouses can apply for work authorization
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Children can attend school in the U.S.
Why Work With U.S. Immigration Counsel?
Transferring executive-level talent is a high-stakes process with no room for error. We’ve helped global companies—from startups to major corporations—secure L-1A visas to support expansion, launch new offices, or relocate key leadership.
We ensure:
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The company and role meet L-1A criteria
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All documentation is complete and compelling
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The employee’s qualifications are clearly demonstrated
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Strategic alignment with future Green Card eligibility
