The Differences between L1A and L1B Visas

There are two kinds of L1 visa. The L1A is designated for managers and executives, individuals with supervisory responsibility for professional staff and/or for a key function, department or subdivision of the employer. The L1B is the specialized knowledge visa, for staff members with knowledge of the company’s products/services, research, systems, proprietary techniques, management or procedures.

What the L1 Visa Allows

• You can be transferred to the United States to work here legally for a U.S. company that is a branch, subsidiary, affiliate or joint venture partner of a company that already employs you outside the U.S.
• You may travel inside and outside the U.S., or remain here without interruption until the expiration of your L1 status.
• You may apply for a green card directly through your employment, avoiding labor certification requirements.
• You may seek lawful permanent residence while pursuing or being present in the U.S.

Qualifying For an L1 Visa

• Employers seeking to transfer a qualifying employee of the same organization to the U.S. must first obtain permission from the USCIS. William A. Streppone can help you with this process.
• Nationals of all countries are eligible to apply for the L1 visa, provided the specific qualifications for the visa are satisfied.
• To qualify for an L1 visa, the company you are being transferred to must be either a branch, subsidiary, affiliate or joint venture partner of your non-U.S. employer.
• Your employment in the company must be as a manager, an executive or a person with specialized knowledge and skills.