Practice Area
L-1 Intracompany Transfer
Transfer executives, managers & specialized knowledge workers to the U.S.
The L-1 visa enables multinational companies to transfer key personnel — executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge — from foreign offices to U.S. operations. BBA Immigration helps companies establish and expand their U.S. presence.
If your company has an office abroad and one in the United States, one year in a managerial, executive or specialised role may be all the L-1 requires.
L-1A vs. L-1B
There are two L-1 subcategories:
L-1A (Managers & Executives) — For employees in managerial or executive roles. Valid up to 7 years. Eligible for EB-1C green card pathway.
L-1B (Specialized Knowledge) — For employees with specialized knowledge of the company's products, services, or processes. Valid up to 5 years.
Requirements
To qualify for an L-1 visa:
The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the last 3 years
The U.S. and foreign entities must have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate)
The employee must be transferring to a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role
For new offices, a detailed business plan showing the need for the position is required
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use L-1 to open a new U.S. office?+
Yes. The L-1 'new office' category allows companies to send a manager or executive to establish a new U.S. office. The initial visa is granted for 1 year, with extensions available as the business grows.
Does the L-1 lead to a green card?+
Yes — especially L-1A. Multinational managers and executives on L-1A visas are eligible for EB-1C green cards, which don't require PERM labor certification.