An L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge from a foreign office to a related U.S. office. At the Zepeda Law Firm, we help businesses and employees in Fort Worth and throughout Texas prepare L-1A and L-1B visa petitions for company expansions, new U.S. offices, and intracompany transfers. We prepare petitions supported by the documentation U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) expects and guide you through every stage of the process. 

Why Choose the Zepeda Law Firm for Your L-1 Visa?

Business immigration requires careful planning and accurate documentation. We handle the legal process so your company can stay focused on its operations. Clients choose our firm because we offer:

  • A personal connection to immigration. Every member of our team is an immigrant, a first-generation American, or has immediate family members who have experienced the immigration process firsthand.
  • Bilingual representation. We provide services in Spanish, Nepalese, and Hindi to better serve our diverse clients.
  • A business-focused approach. We represent startups, established companies, investors, and growing businesses, tailoring each petition to the company’s structure and goals.
  • A collaborative network. We work with local CPAs and attorneys in related practice areas when additional legal or business issues arise.
  • Flexible consultations. Meet with us by phone, Zoom, or in person at our Fort Worth or Southlake offices. Your initial phone consultation is free.

What Is an L-1 Visa?

The L-1 is a nonimmigrant employment visa that allows a qualifying company to transfer an employee from a related foreign entity to work in the United States. The U.S. and foreign businesses must maintain a qualifying relationship, such as a parent company, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch.

There are two classifications:

  • L-1A for executives and managers
  • L-1B for employees with specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, systems, or procedures

Who Qualifies for an L-1 Visa?

Eligibility depends on both the employee and the employer.

Generally, the employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one continuous year during the previous three years and be transferring to an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position in the United States. The employer must demonstrate a qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities and, if opening a new office, provide documentation showing the business is prepared to operate.

We review your corporate records and employee history before filing to identify potential issues early.

How Long Does an L-1 Visa Last?

The length of an L-1 visa depends on the type of petition.

A new-office L-1 petition is generally approved for one year. Existing businesses may receive an initial approval of up to three years, with extensions often available in two-year increments.

The maximum period of stay is:

  • L-1A executives and managers: Up to seven years
  • L-1B specialized knowledge employees: Up to five years

Because previous time spent in certain employment-based visa categories may affect these limits, reviewing an employee’s immigration history is an important part of planning.

Can an L-1 Visa Lead to a Green Card?

Yes. The L-1 visa recognizes dual intent, allowing employees to pursue permanent residence while maintaining L-1 status.

Many L-1A executives and managers may qualify for permanent residence through the EB-1C Multinational Manager or Executive category, which does not require labor certification. L-1B employees may qualify through other employment-based immigration options depending on their circumstances. We can help you evaluate the strategy that best supports your long-term goals.

What Can Delay an L-1 Petition?

Even qualified applicants may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) if USCIS determines additional documentation is needed.

Common issues include:

  • Limited evidence of executive or managerial duties
  • Insufficient documentation of specialized knowledge
  • Unclear corporate ownership or business relationships
  • Incomplete organizational charts
  • Inconsistent job descriptions or supporting records

Preparing a thorough petition from the beginning can help reduce delays and strengthen your application.

Can Family Members Accompany an L-1 Visa Holder?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may qualify for L-2 status. L-2 spouses are generally authorized to work in the United States, and children may attend school while living here. We can prepare these applications alongside the primary petition to help families relocate together.

Contact Our Fort Worth L-1 Visa Attorneys

Whether your business is transferring an executive, manager, or employee with specialized knowledge, the Zepeda Law Firm can help you prepare a strong L-1 petition. We represent employers and professionals throughout Fort Worth and Texas in employment-based immigration matters. Contact us today to schedule your free phone consultation and discuss your company’s immigration needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does premium processing apply to L-1 petitions?

Yes. Premium processing is available for most L-1 petitions. For an additional government filing fee, USCIS generally provides action on the petition within its published premium processing timeframe.

Can an L-1 visa holder change employers?

Generally, no. L-1 status is tied to the petitioning employer. Working for an unrelated company typically requires a different employment-based visa.

Is there an annual cap on L-1 visas?

No. Unlike H-1B visas, L-1 visas are not subject to an annual numerical cap, so qualifying employers may file petitions throughout the year.