Intracompany Transferee for Executive, Manager, or Specialized Knowledge Professional (L-1)
The L-1 visa is a non-immigrant classification specifically created for multinational companies. It allows for the seamless transfer of employees from international branches to the United States, supporting the continuity of global business activities. This visa is particularly tailored for key personnel, such as executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge, ensuring that critical operations and expertise are maintained across borders. Francis Law is equipped with the expertise and knowledge necessary to guide foreign workers through the L-1 visa application process, offering comprehensive support to maintain and enhance their organization’s global presence.
There are two primary L-1 visa categories
Who is it for?
The L-1 visa is designed for multinational companies and employees who meet the following criteria:
Requirements for the Employer and Employee
The U.S. employer must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign company where the employee currently works. This relationship can be one of the following: A parent company-subsidiary relationship, where one company exercises majority control or ownership of the other. In an affiliate branch office, where the U.S. company is a branch of the foreign company. relationship, the same parent owns the U.S. and foreign companies or is otherwise closely connected.
The U.S. and foreign companies must demonstrate they are actively doing business and operating in the U.S. and overseas. This can be proven by submitting the following documents: Articles of Incorporation Tax filings and/or annual reports Bank statements Contracts and invoices.
Parent and subsidiary companies do not have to be in the same business.
No size limitation for the company, but depending on size, different types of evidence may be required. No country limitation. Companies not yet established in the U.S. may file a New Office petition to qualify for the L-1 visa.
Executives are pivotal in leading the organization or a key division, and setting strategic goals and policies. They possess considerable autonomy in making discretionary decisions, guided by a broad framework rather than close supervision. Their direction typically comes from senior executives, the board of directors, or shareholders, allowing them the freedom to shape the organization’s future.
Managerial duties encompass overseeing an organization, department, subdivision, function, or component. Managers bear the responsibility of supervising and directing the activities of other supervisory, professional, or managerial staff. Additionally, they may oversee a crucial function within the organization, ensuring the smooth operation and success of their designated area of control.
A Beneficiary is deemed to have specialized knowledge if he or she has special knowledge of the company product and its application in international markets or an advanced level of knowledge or expertise of the processes and procedures of the company. This includes expertise that enhances the employer’s productivity and competitiveness, such as knowledge of sophisticated or technically complex products or processes that are difficult to transfer without significant cost. Additionally, insights that significantly benefit the employer’s market position are also considered specialized knowledge.
Why Choose Francis Law?
Choosing Francis Law for L-1 visa assistance is a wise decision due to the firm’s deep expertise in business immigration, personalized approach, proven track record, and comprehensive support. Whether you’re a multinational company seeking to transfer important personnel or an employee aiming to further your career while gaining international experience. Francis Law has you covered from all angles.
Reach out to us for a consultation today!
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