The L-1A visa allows a U.S. company to transfer an executive or manager from one of its foreign offices to a branch in the United States.
It also enables a foreign company without an existing U.S. office to send an executive to establish one.
The employer must file Form I-129 to petition for the visa on behalf of the employee.
Period of Stay
Employees coming to the U.S. to establish a new office may stay for an initial period of up to one year.
Other qualified employees may receive an initial stay of up to three years.
Extensions for the L-1A visa may be granted in increments of up to two years, with a maximum stay of seven years.
Family Members of L-1A Visa Holders
The employee may travel with their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21. They may apply for the L-2 visa, and if approved, they will be granted the same period of stay as the employee.
If already in the U.S., they may apply to change or extend their status by filing Form I-539 and paying the applicable fee.
Spouses of L-1 visa holders may apply for work authorization by submitting Form I-765. If approved, they can work without restrictions.
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