L-1B Specialized Knowledge
Transfer Employees with Specialized Knowledge to the U.S.
Overview
The L-1B nonimmigrant visa enables a U.S. employer to transfer a professional employee with specialized knowledge relating to the organization's interests from one of its affiliated foreign offices to one of its offices in the United States.
Key Benefits
Transfer to U.S. Company Branch
Seamlessly move critical specialized knowledge employees from a foreign branch to the U.S. headquarters or affiliate.
Live & Work in the U.S.
Work legally in the U.S. while providing essential specialized knowledge to your company's operations.
Spouse Work Authorization
L-2 spouses are eligible to apply for work authorization in the United States.
Eligibility Requirements
Qualifying Relationship
There must be a qualifying relationship between the U.S. company and the foreign entity.
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.
Specialized Knowledge
The employee must be entering the U.S. to provide services that involve specialized knowledge of the company's product, service, research, equipment, techniques, management, or other interests.
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-1B petition with USCIS on behalf of the employee.
Quick Facts
- Visa TypeNonimmigrant Work Visa (Dual Intent)
- Target GroupSpecialized Knowledge Employees
- Maximum StayUp to 5 Years
- Spouse BenefitsL-2 Spouse may work in the U.S.
