1. Benefits of L1 Visa

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   2. 1. Live and Work in the USA: L1 visa holders can live and work in the United States.

   3. 2. Extended Stay: L1A visa is valid for 3 years and extendable up to 7 years; L1B visa is valid for 3 years and extendable up to 5 years.

   4. 3. Dual Intent Visa: Unlike some visas, L1 allows for dual intent, meaning the holder can have the intent to possibly immigrate to the US.

   5. 4. No Set Wage Requirements: L1 doesn’t require specific wage levels, but compliance with minimum wage laws is necessary.

   6. 5. Family Benefits: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany L1 visa holders, with spouses eligible for employment and children for education.

   7. 6. Premium Processing: L1 visa is eligible for premium processing, expediting the petition for an additional fee.

   8. 7. No Annual Limit: There is no annual quota for L1 visas, unlike some other visa categories.

1. 1. Qualifying Relationship: A qualifying relationship must exist between the foreign and US companies (parent/subsidiary, branch office, or affiliate).

2. 2. Employee’s Background: The employee must have been employed full-time by the foreign company for at least 1 year in the last 3 years, in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role.

Common Issues for Managers, Executives, and Specialized Knowledge Workers:

• Evidence is crucial for managers and executives to prove they won’t primarily handle daily operations.
• Specialized knowledge workers must demonstrate their knowledge isn’t common in the industry.

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• Documents Needed for L1 Visa Application:

  • Passport copies for applicant and family.
  • Resume/CV.
  • Detailed job descriptions.
  • Information about the US and foreign companies.

1. Special Rules for L1 New Office Petitions:

   • 1. New office must demonstrate business activities.
   • 2. L1A managers must show a qualifying relationship, adequate premises, and previous managerial/executive experience.
   • 3. L1B specialized knowledge workers must prove financial ability, premises, and previous specialized knowledge.

Application Process:

1. 1. Hire an immigration lawyer.
2. 2. Gather necessary documents.
3. 3. File Form I-129 and L Supplement.
4. 4. Apply for the L1 visa at the consulate or directly at a US port of entry for Canadian citizens.

L1 Visa Extensions:

• 1. L1A: Initially valid for 3 years, extendable to 7 years.
• 2. L1B: Initially valid for 3 years, extendable to 5 years.
• 3. New office L1 extensions have specific requirements.

L1 Blanket Visa:

• 1. For employers frequently using L1 visas.
• 2. Allows L1 employees to apply directly at the consulate.

Transitioning from L1 Visa to Green Card:

• Options include EB1C, work sponsorship, EB5, or marriage to a US citizen or permanent resident.