The L-1A nonimmigrant classification is designed to enable a U.S. employer to transfer an executive or manager from one of its affiliated foreign offices to one of its offices in the United States. Alternatively, it allows a foreign company that does not yet have an affiliated U.S. office to send an executive or manager to the United States with the purpose of establishing one. To qualify, the named employee must generally have been working for the company abroad for at least one continuous year within the previous three years.
The L-1A Visa allows for an initial stay of up to three years, which can be extended to a maximum of seven years. This visa category also provides a pathway to lawful permanent resident status (Green Card), under certain conditions. The L-1A visa holder's spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may also seek admission under the L-2 nonimmigrant classification and are eligible for work authorization.
The process of obtaining an L-1A Visa involves the U.S. employer filing a petition with the USCIS. The petition must include evidence to demonstrate the corporate relationship between the U.S. office and the foreign entity, as well as the managerial or executive role of the employee.