The L1B visa helps companies move workers with special skills from foreign offices to the U.S. This visa lets your business use workers with specialized knowledge across borders. Here’s how your company can get L1B visas for your workers and follow U.S. laws.
Understanding the L1B Visa
The L1B visa lets a U.S. company move a worker with special skills from one of its foreign offices to a U.S. office. Special skills mean unique know-how about the company’s products, services, methods or management that is uncommon in the field.
Who can apply
To get an L1B visa, your company must have a link with a foreign company, whether a parent, branch or partner company. The worker must have worked for the foreign company for at least one full year in the past three years using their unique skills.
Getting ready to apply
The U.S. company must file Form I-129 for the worker. This form should include:
- Proof of the link between the U.S. and foreign companies.
- Precise details of the worker’s unique skills and job.
- Papers showing the worker’s job history with the foreign company.
These documents form the backbone of your application, so make sure they are complete and accurate.
Proving specialized skills or knowledge
Please explain how the worker’s skills are exceptional and why they matter for your U.S. work. Give clear examples and proof, such as:
- Detailed job tasks and duties.
- Proof of training, certificates or unique abilities.
- How the worker’s skills differ from others in the field.
By providing this evidence, you strengthen your case for the L1B visa approval.
How long they can stay
L1B visa holders can initially live in the U.S. for three years. They may extend their stay for up to two more years, allowing five years in the country.
Legal things to know
Follow U.S. immigration laws by keeping good records and meeting the rules for company ties and unique skill jobs. Regularly check if your company and the worker qualify to avoid legal problems.
Consider contacting an immigration lawyer for tailored legal advice and assistance with your L1B visa applications.