Temporary work visa
What is the L-1 intracompany transferee visa?
The L-1 is a temporary work visa for intracompany transferees — it lets a multinational company move an employee from a foreign office to a related U.S. office. L-1A is for managers and executives; L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge.
Primary legal authority
- INA §101(a)(15)(L) — Defines the L-1 intracompany-transferee classification.
- 8 CFR §214.2(l) — Sets out the L-1 requirements, including the qualifying relationship and the one-year-abroad rule.
Core requirements
The worker must have been employed abroad by a qualifying related entity (parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate) for at least one continuous year within the three years before the petition, and must be coming to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized-knowledge capacity.
The U.S. and foreign employers must have a qualifying corporate relationship that continues throughout the transfer.
L-1A vs L-1B
L-1A (managers and executives) is granted for up to seven years total and can support a streamlined path to an EB-1C green card for multinational managers.
L-1B (specialized knowledge) is granted for up to five years total. The L-1 also offers a 'new office' option for companies establishing a first U.S. presence, with a shorter initial approval.
Frequently asked questions
What is the one-year requirement for the L-1?
The employee must have worked for a qualifying related foreign entity for at least one continuous year out of the three years before the petition is filed, under 8 CFR §214.2(l).
What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?
L-1A is for managers and executives (up to seven years total); L-1B is for employees with specialized knowledge (up to five years total).
Does the L-1 require a U.S. and foreign company relationship?
Yes — there must be a qualifying relationship (parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate) between the foreign and U.S. employers that continues during the transfer.
JustiGuide provides legal information, not legal advice, and is not a law firm. This page is a general overview and is not a substitute for advice about your specific situation from a licensed immigration attorney. Last reviewed 2026-05-27.