With so many different types of visas with a broad range of eligibility requirements in the United States, we understand that immigration law can get pretty confusing. Today, our expert team of immigration attorneys is explaining everything you need to know about the L-1 visa, aka the temporary work visa.
With 8 years of experience, our legal team here at Milovic Law Firm has helped countless individuals obtain their L-1 visas with ease. As a powerful immigration option for people looking to live and work in the United States, the L-1 visa is an important tool to be aware of. So, how long is an L-1 visa good for? Stay tuned to find out.
What is the L-1 Visa?
An L-1 visa is used to help American employers transfer executives, managers, or specialized knowledge employees from a foreign office to their U.S.-based office. Unlike some of the other immigrant visas, an L-1 visa is temporary and does not directly lead to a green card.
Benefits of the L-1 Visa
So, why get an L-1 visa over the other immigrant visas that are available? Well, it all depends on your goals and the purpose of your stay in the United States. If you’re looking to enter the U.S. on a temporary work-based visit, the L-1 visa makes a viable option. Here are some of the top benefits of the L-1 visa:
1. No quotas.
While other visas pose annual limits on the number available per country, there are no restrictions on the number of L-1 visas available for use in the U.S.
2. Fast processing.
The average person can obtain an L-1 visa in about 3-6 months. If you want to get your visa even faster, you can pay for premium processing, which prompts the USCIS to respond within 15 business days.
3. Family benefits.
When you get an L-1 visa, you’re allowed to bring your spouse and dependent children along with you by getting them an L-2 visa. Once inside the U.S., your spouse is also able to apply to work for an American company.
4. Dual-intent visa.
The L-1 category is considered a dual-intent visa, which means applicants are not required to show their intent to return home. If they want to gain citizenship, it is possible for L-1 holders to eventually obtain a green card.
How Long is an L-1 Visa Good For?
The L-1 visa is divided into 2 subcategories: the L-1A and the L-1B. L-1A visas are issued to executives and managers who are entering the U.S. for work, while L-1B visas are reserved for specialized knowledge workers.
How long an L-1 visa is good for depends on which subcategory you fall into. L-1A visas are good for up to 7 years, while L-1B visas can last for up to 5 years.
L-1 Work Visas in Phoenix, AZ
If you’re seeking an immigration attorney in the Phoenix area to help you obtain your L-1 work visa, then the Milovic Law Firm has got you covered. With a wealth of knowledge about every aspect of immigration law, we are confident that our skilled legal team can handle all of your immigration needs.
To learn more about what we can do for you, browse our service page or contact our team for a free consultation to get started.
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