The L-1 visa allows employees of international companies to be transferred to a branch or subsidiary in the U.S. to perform work requiring specialized knowledge or managerial skills. This visa is designed for employees who are already working for an international company outside the U.S. and wish to be transferred to its U.S. offices. There are two types of L-1 visas: L-1A for executives and managers, and L-1B for employees with specialized knowledge.

To qualify for the L-1A, the applicant must have worked for the company outside the U.S. for at least one year within the last three years and be coming to assume a managerial or executive role in the U.S. For the L-1B, the applicant must possess specialized knowledge critical to the company’s operations and meet the same one-year international work requirement within the last three years.

The L-1 visa is highly useful for companies seeking to expand in the U.S., allowing the transfer of trusted employees with significant expertise and leadership skills. The visa duration is typically 1-3 years and can be extended up to 7 years for L-1A and 5 years for L-1B. An important advantage of this visa is the ability to apply for a green card, providing the opportunity for permanent residence in the U.S.