L1A

L1A refers to the L-1A nonimmigrant visa category in the United States, designed for intracompany transferees who work in executive or managerial positions. It is part of the broader L-1 visa program that enables qualifying international companies to transfer employees to their U.S. offices or affiliates. The L-1A is distinct from the L-1B category, which covers employees with specialized knowledge, and it is considered a dual-intent visa, allowing the holder to pursue permanent residency while in nonimmigrant status.

Eligibility for the L1A requires a qualifying relationship between the foreign company and the U.S. entity (such as parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch). The employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year within the three years immediately preceding the admission to the United States. The job duties in the United States must be in an executive or managerial capacity, and the U.S. employer must currently be conducting business and have a qualifying relationship with the foreign entity.

Duration and extensions for L1A status begin with an initial period of up to three years. Extensions in increments of up to two years are possible, with a maximum total stay of seven years. For those seeking a path to permanent residency, L1A holders may pursue immigrant status under the EB-1C category for multinational executives or managers, which generally does not require a labor certification.

Processing can occur through a petition filed by the U.S. employer with USCIS, with options for consular processing or change of status within the United States. Dependents on L-2 visas may accompany the L1A holder; L-2 spouses may apply for work authorization, while L-2 children may study.