L-1 intracompany transferee

Who this pathway suits

Executives, managers, and specialized personnel transferring within multinational corporations.

Eligibility at a glance

• Employed abroad continuously for at least 1 full year within the past 3 years by a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate of the US company
• L-1A: Transferred in an Executive or Managerial capacity (up to 7 years maximum stay; direct EB-1C Green Card pathway)
• L-1B: Transferred in a position requiring specialized knowledge of the company's products, services, or processes (up to 5 years maximum stay)
• Qualifying corporate relationship between the US and foreign entities

How the process works

1. US employer files Form I-129 with L Supplement and supporting corporate evidence
2. USCIS adjudicates (eligible for 15-day Premium Processing)
3. Employee attends consular interview or changes status in US

Documents you will typically need

• Corporate ownership records, proof of 1 continuous year overseas employment, detailed job descriptions, organizational charts, passport

What to keep in mind

Dual intent is recognized. L-1A managers and executives can transition directly to permanent residence through EB-1C without labor certification.