How to Apply for an L-1 Visa in Pennsylvania for Intracompany Transferees

How to Apply for an L-1 Visa in Pennsylvania for Intracompany Transferees

The L-1 Visa is an essential pathway for multinational companies to transfer employees from foreign offices to the United States. In Pennsylvania, the application process for the L-1 Visa for intracompany transferees involves several steps that applicants must follow closely to enhance their chances of approval.

Understanding the L-1 Visa Categories
There are two primary subcategories of the L-1 Visa:

  • L-1A Visa: Designed for managers and executives.
  • L-1B Visa: Intended for employees with specialized knowledge about the company's operations or products.

Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
Before applying for the L-1 Visa, it is crucial to establish that both the U.S. and foreign offices are qualifying entities. To be eligible, the foreign company must have a qualifying relationship with the U.S. company, such as being a parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary. Additionally, the applicant must have worked for the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the last three years.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation
Gathering the necessary documentation is vital for a successful application. The main documents typically include:

  • Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
  • Proof of the qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities
  • Evidence of the applicant's employment history and qualifications
  • Company organizational charts for both foreign and U.S. companies
  • Financial documents that showcase the business operations of both entities

Step 3: File the Petition
The L-1 Visa application process begins with filing Form I-129 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is essential to complete the form accurately and include all required supporting documents. The filing fee must also be paid, and applicants should keep copies of everything submitted.

Step 4: Wait for USCIS Decision
After submitting the petition, USCIS will process the application and may request additional information or documentation (Request for Evidence - RFE) if needed. The processing time can vary, so applicants should monitor their case status on the USCIS website.

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
If USCIS approves the petition, the next step is the visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy. Applicants should prepare thoroughly for the interview by reviewing their application, bringing original documents, and being ready to answer questions about their role within the company.

Step 6: Receive Your Visa
If the interview is successful and all requirements are met, the applicant will receive the L-1 Visa, allowing them to enter the United States and begin their assignment. Visa holders are typically allowed to stay for - initially up to three years, with the possibility of extensions (up to a maximum of seven years for L-1A and five years for L-1B).

Conclusion
Applying for an L-1 Visa in Pennsylvania for intracompany transferees involves careful preparation, documentation, and adherence to USCIS guidelines. By following these steps and ensuring that all requirements are met, applicants can increase their chances of a successful visa application.