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L-1B

Bringing Global Talent to Drive U.S. Innovation

The L-1B visa allows multinational companies to transfer employees with specialized knowledge from their foreign offices to their U.S. branches, affiliates, or subsidiaries. This category is designed to help organizations leverage global expertise and strengthen their U.S. operations. At aiLegal, we help both employers and employees navigate the L-1B process, ensuring petitions are well-prepared and meet USCIS’s high evidentiary standards.

What You Will Get with Us

  1. Eligibility Assessment
    We review the employer’s corporate structure and the employee’s role to confirm qualification for L-1B status.

  2. Step-by-Step Guided Petition Process
    We explain each stage of the petition, from employer documentation to employee qualifications, ensuring clarity and compliance.

  3. Personalized Evidence Strategy
    We craft a tailored evidence plan to highlight the employee’s specialized knowledge and its importance to U.S. operations.

  4. Dedicated Legal Support
    Our team answers questions for both the company and employee, providing guidance through complex USCIS requirements.

  5. Thorough Application Review
    Every petition is carefully reviewed multiple times to minimize errors and strengthen the case.

  6. Comprehensive Legal Review
    An immigration attorney examines all documents and narratives to ensure the petition meets USCIS’s strict interpretation of “specialized knowledge.”

  7. Ready-to-File Petition Package
    We assemble a professional, organized petition package for submission to USCIS or the appropriate consulate.

  8. RFE (Request for Evidence) Response Support
    If USCIS requests additional evidence, we prepare strong responses to address concerns and protect approval chances.

  • Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with L Classification Supplement)

  • Form I-797 (Notice of Action, USCIS decision notice)

  • Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, if applying abroad)

  • Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Status, for dependents in the U.S.)


Let’s Make a Plan Together 

Frequently Asked Questions


What qualifies as “specialized knowledge”?

Knowledge that is distinct or advanced in the company’s products, services, processes, techniques, or management.

How long can I stay on an L-1B visa?

Initially up to 3 years, with possible extensions for a maximum of 5 years.

Can my family come with me?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may apply for L-2 visas. Spouses on L-2 can apply for work authorization.

What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?

L-1A is for managers and executives; L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge.

Does the L-1B lead to a Green Card?

While L-1B is temporary, it can be a stepping stone to permanent residency through employment-based categories like EB-2 or EB-3.

Can I change employers on L-1B?

No. The L-1B is tied to the sponsoring employer. A new employer would need to file a separate petition under a different visa category.


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