L1A (Executive & Manager Transfer Visa)
Transfer Key Executives and Managers to the U.S.
Overview
The L-1A nonimmigrant visa enables a U.S. employer to transfer an executive or manager from one of its affiliated foreign offices to one of its offices in the United States, or to send an executive to establish a new affiliated office.
Key Benefits
Transfer to U.S. Company Branch
Seamlessly move critical leadership from a foreign branch to the U.S. headquarters or affiliate.
Live & Work as Executive/Manager
Work legally in the U.S. while managing essential business operations.
Direct Pathway to Green Card (EB-1C)
L-1A holders often qualify for the EB-1C Green Card category, offering a streamlined path to permanent residency.
New Office Setup
Allows foreign companies to send a manager to the U.S. specifically to establish a new office.
Eligibility Requirements
Qualifying Relationship
There must be a qualifying relationship between the U.S. company and the foreign entity (parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate).
One Year Continuous Employment
The employee must have worked for the foreign company continuously for at least one year within the three years preceding admission.
Executive or Managerial Capacity
The employee must be entering the U.S. to provide services in an executive or managerial capacity.
The Process
Establish Qualifying Relationship
Document the corporate relationship between the foreign entity and the U.S. office.
File Form I-129
The U.S. employer files the L-1A petition with USCIS on behalf of the employee.
Visa Application
Once the petition is approved, the employee applies for the L-1A visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Quick Facts
- Visa TypeNonimmigrant Work Visa (Dual Intent)
- Target GroupExecutives and Managers
- Green Card PathDirect Pathway to Green Card (EB-1C)
- Spouse BenefitsL-2 Spouse may work in the U.S.
