The Benefits of L1 Visa for Specialized Knowledge: An Example
If you’re an employee of a multinational company or planning to become one, you might be wondering, “What’s in it for me if I get an L1 visa for specialized knowledge?” The short answer is a lot.
An L1 visa allows you to work in the United States for your employer’s U.S.-based subsidiary, branch, parent company, or affiliated entity for a maximum of seven years.
But what does that mean for you? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of an L1 visa for specialized knowledge and give an example of how it can work for you.
What is an L1 Visa?
Before we dive into the benefits, let’s briefly discuss what an L1 visa is and who qualifies for it.
The L1 visa is a non-immigrant work visa, which means it’s temporary and doesn’t lead to permanent residency. It’s available to multinational companies with a presence in both the United States and another country.
To qualify, you must have worked for the foreign entity for at least one continuous year within the last three years and hold a position with specialized knowledge that is necessary for the U.S.-based entity’s operations.
The Benefits of an L1 Visa for Specialized Knowledge
So, why should you consider getting an L1 visa for specialized knowledge? Here are some of the top benefits:
1. Fast Processing Time
Compared to other work visas, such as the H1B, the L1 visa has a faster processing time. You can get approval within days or weeks, depending on whether you apply for the regular or premium processing service.
Also, there’s no annual cap on L1 visas, so you don’t have to worry about being selected in a lottery or waiting for next year’s application cycle.
2. Dual Intent
One of the unique features of the L1 visa is that it allows for dual intent. That means you can apply for permanent residency (a green card) while you’re in the U.S. on an L1 visa.
Having dual intent can give you peace of mind and more flexibility in your career planning. You can focus on your work and personal goals without worrying about your visa status or being forced to leave the U.S. after your visa expires.
3. Dependent Visa for Spouse and Children
As an L1 visa holder, you can bring your spouse and children (under 21 years old) to the U.S. on a dependent visa (L2 visa).
Your spouse can apply for work authorization, which means they can work for any employer in the U.S. without any restrictions. Your children can attend school or college in the U.S. and have access to the same opportunities as a U.S. citizen.
An Example of L1 Visa for Specialized Knowledge
Let’s say you’re a software engineer working for a multinational company headquartered in India. Your company has a U.S.-based subsidiary based in Silicon Valley, and they need an experienced engineer to lead a new project.
You’re the perfect fit for the job because you have specialized knowledge of the company’s proprietary software and have been working on similar projects for several years.
Your company decides to sponsor you for an L1 visa for specialized knowledge. You submit your application, and within a few weeks, you get approval.
You move to the U.S. and start your new job, leading a team of engineers and developers. Your spouse also moves with you, and they apply for work authorization.
After a year or two, your project is a success, and your company decides to expand its operations in the U.S. They offer you a permanent position, and you apply for a green card.
Because you have dual intent, you’re able to continue working while your green card application is pending. You and your family can enjoy the benefits of living and working in the U.S. without any visa-related stress.
Conclusion
Getting an L1 visa for specialized knowledge can be a game-changer for your career and personal life. It offers fast processing time, dual intent, and a dependent visa for your spouse and children.
If you’re eligible for an L1 visa and your employer is willing to sponsor you, it’s worth considering. The process may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, you can make it work for you.
