There are no specific limits on the number of times you can apply for an L-1 visa. However, each application will be evaluated on its own merits, and the applicant must meet the eligibility criteria for the visa.
And now, in greater depth
There are no specific limitations on the number of times an individual can apply for an L-1 visa, as stated in the previous response. Each application is reviewed based on its own merits, and the applicant must satisfy the eligibility criteria for the visa. The L-1 visa is designed for intracompany transferees who are employed in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge positions in multinational companies. Here are some additional details and interesting facts regarding the L-1 visa:
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Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for an L-1 visa, the applicant must have worked for a qualifying organization abroad for at least one continuous year within the past three years. The applicant must also be seeking to enter the United States to provide services in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity for a branch, parent, affiliate, or subsidiary of the same employer.
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L-1A and L-1B Visas: The L-1 visa category is further divided into L-1A and L-1B visas. L-1A visas are for executives and managers, while L-1B visas are for employees with specialized knowledge. Both visa categories have their own specific requirements and advantages.
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Dual Intent: One of the unique aspects of the L-1 visa is that it allows for “dual intent.” This means that L-1 visa holders can pursue permanent residency (green card) in the United States without jeopardizing their nonimmigrant visa status.
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Spouse and Dependents: L-1 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States on an L-2 visa. L-2 visa holders are eligible to study, and spouses may also apply for work authorization.
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Quote: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
Table:
Below is a table illustrating the key differences between the L-1A and L-1B visa categories:
| L-1A Visa | L-1B Visa |
|---|---|
| Executives/Managers | Specialized Knowledge |
| Longer maximum initial period | Up to 5 years initial period |
| May extend up to 7 years | May extend up to 5 years |
| Primarily managerial duties | Demonstrates specialized knowledge |
| Easier path to permanent residency | More challenging to prove specialized knowledge |
Remember, while this information aims to provide a comprehensive overview, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney or the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the L-1 visa process.
Many additional responses to your query
L-1 Visa Extension If you are an L-1A employee, you may request for additional two years upon the expiration of your first visa until you have reached the maximum limit of seven years. However, for L-1B employees, you may also request an additional two years until you have reached the maximum limit of five years.
See a related video
In this YouTube video, Attorney Menchaca answers frequently asked questions about the L1 visa. He explains that the L1A visa is for executives and managers being transferred to work in the US, while the L1B visa is for highly skilled individuals with specialized knowledge. Menchaca emphasizes that decision-making authority and supervisory responsibilities need to be demonstrated for an L1A visa, and being on the foreign company’s payroll is not required. He also mentions that the two companies involved in the L1 visa application do not have to be in the same business, as long as they are part of the same corporate group.