L1 Visa application process
Applying for a L1 Visa is a 2-step process consisting of the petition filed by the employer and the application. Following is an overview of the basic requirements for an L1 visa.
- The first requirement is a qualifying relationship between the US and the foreign employer. Proof of this relationship will have to be provided. The US employer must continue to do business in the US as well as abroad.
- The employee has to have worked for the abroad employer for at least one year out of the last three years before filing the petition. The employer must provide detailed information about the employees position, duties, qualifications and salary.
- The employees position in his prior work must be either manager / executive or in the capacity of a specialized knowledge worker. The prospective employment in the US must also be in either one of these positions, but it is not required that it is in the same capacity as the employees previous work.
- The sole purpose of the L1 visa is a temporary work permit for the US. The alien must return abroad at the end of the visa period, unless a permanent residency is grated during this period. The alien may only work for the employer who sponsored the L1 visa.