The L-1A visa allows international companies to transfer experienced executives or managers to their U.S. office—or to help establish a new branch in the U.S. It’s an essential option for global businesses expanding operations and for professionals looking to continue their leadership roles in the United States.

Who Qualifies for the L-1A Visa?

To be eligible, you must:

• Have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 continuous year in the past 3 years
  
  
• Hold a managerial or executive role with substantial decision-making authority
  
  
• Be transferring to a related U.S. entity (subsidiary, parent, branch, or affiliate)
  
  

L-1A Categories

• Existing Office Transfer:S. office must be active and operating
  
  
• New Office Establishment: Applicant must set up and run a new U.S. branch, with a business plan showing growth potential within 1 year
  
  

Key Benefits

• Initial stay of up to 1 year (new office) or 3 years (existing office), with extensions up to a maximum of 7 years
  
  
• No labor certification required
  
  
• Pathway to a Green Card (EB-1C) for permanent residency
  
  
• Spouses and children can accompany you and may be eligible for work and school authorization
  
  

Application Process

1. Form I-129 filed by the U.S. employer
   
   
2. Submit documentation proving:
   
   

• Employment history and executive/managerial duties
  
  
• Relationship between the foreign and U.S. entities
  
  
• Business plan (for new offices)
  
  

1. Once approved, apply for the L-1A visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate
   
   

Why Businesses Use the L-1A Visa

• Transfer trusted leadership from global offices
  
  
• Launch new U.S. operations with familiar executives
  
  
• Expand market presence with minimal risk
  
  
• Maintain continuity and streamline international strategy
  
  

Ready to Start Your U.S. Expansion?

The L-1A visa offers a strategic and flexible path to grow your career or business in the United States. Whether you’re transferring into an established U.S. branch or starting a new one from the ground up, we can guide you every step of the way.