L-1 Visa Guide: Transferring Employees to a U.S. Office

The L-1 visa lets a multinational company transfer certain employees from a foreign office to a U.S. one. It’s the go-to route for companies expanding into the U.S. or moving key people across borders, because it doesn’t depend on a lottery and supports both established offices and new ones.

Who qualifies

The employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year in the preceding three years, in a role that’s either managerial/executive or involves specialized knowledge. They’re then transferred to a related U.S. entity in a similar capacity.

The qualifying relationship

There must be a genuine corporate relationship between the foreign and U.S. employer: parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate. Documenting this relationship (ownership, control, common ownership) is central to the petition.

New office L-1s

Companies opening a first U.S. office can use the L-1, but new-office petitions get extra scrutiny and a shorter initial approval. You’ll need to show secured premises, a viable business plan, and the ability to support the role within a year.

Why companies choose it

No annual cap, no lottery, dual intent allowed (so it pairs well with a later green card), and spouses can apply for work authorization. For intracompany moves, it’s often cleaner than the H-1B.

If you’re weighing your options, a consultation with Capitol Law Partners can map the right path for your situation. Schedule a consultation.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by this communication.

Attorney Cagatay Ersoy. Practical strategy for founders, investors, and growing companies.