Orlando L-1 Visa Attorney

Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. is Ready to Help

When expanding a business across borders, transferring key employees to the United States is often a critical step. The L-1 visa provides a pathway for multinational companies to move executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers into their U.S. offices. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we help businesses and professionals in Orlando navigate the complex L-1 visa process with skill and precision. If you need an experienced L-1 visa lawyer, our team is here to provide trusted legal guidance.

Call (407) 630-8455 to schedule a consultation with our team.

What is an L-1 Visa?

The L-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows multinational companies to transfer employees from a foreign office to a related office in the United States. It is designed to strengthen international business relationships and support U.S. operations by allowing key employees to work in managerial, executive, or specialized roles.

There are two primary types of L-1 visas:

• L-1A Visa – For executives and managers who are responsible for overseeing operations, directing other employees, and making high-level business decisions.
• L-1B Visa – For employees with specialized knowledge of the company’s products, services, research, equipment, or management practices that are essential to the organization’s success.

The L-1 visa is a powerful tool for global companies because it not only facilitates international employee transfers but can also serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency through employment-based green cards.

Eligibility for L-1 Visa

Not every employee or business qualifies for an L-1 visa. Both the employer and employee must meet strict eligibility requirements.

Employer Requirements:

• The company must have a qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entity (parent company, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary).
• The company must be doing business in the United States and at least one other country during the visa holder’s stay.
• For new office petitions, the U.S. office must be properly established and capable of supporting the transferred employee within one year.

Employee Requirements:

• The employee must have worked for the qualifying foreign company for at least one continuous year within the past three years.
• The employee must be entering the U.S. to work in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.
• The employee must have the qualifications and expertise necessary for the intended U.S. role.

If you are unsure whether you or your business qualifies, our Orlando L-1 visa attorney at Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. can evaluate your situation and determine the best immigration strategy.

How to Get an L-1 Visa

The L-1 visa application process involves multiple steps and requires detailed documentation to prove eligibility.

Step 1: Employer Petition

The U.S. employer must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Supporting evidence must show the qualifying relationship between the foreign and U.S. companies and confirm the employee’s role.

Step 2: USCIS Approval

If USCIS approves the petition, they will issue a notice of approval (Form I-797). This is required before the employee can apply for the visa.

Step 3: Consular Processing or Change of Status

If the employee is outside the United States, they will apply for an L-1 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country.

If the employee is already in the United States in another lawful status, they may request a change of status through USCIS.

Step 4: Entry and Employment

Once approved, the employee can enter the U.S. and begin working for the sponsoring employer. L-1A visa holders are generally granted an initial stay of one year (new offices) or three years (established offices), with extensions available up to seven years. L-1B holders are typically allowed a maximum stay of five years.

Because the process is document-heavy and errors can cause delays or denials, working with our Orlando L-1 visa lawyer ensures your application is handled correctly from the start.

L-1 Visa FAQs

How long does it take to get an L-1 visa?

Processing times vary, but it typically takes several weeks to months. Premium processing is available for an additional fee, which can shorten USCIS review time to 15 calendar days.

Can L-1 visa holders bring family members?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the visa holder under L-2 status. Spouses may also apply for work authorization in the U.S.

Can an L-1 visa lead to a green card?

Yes. Many L-1A visa holders transition to permanent residency through the EB-1C immigrant visa for multinational managers and executives.

What happens if the U.S. office is new?

If the transfer is to a newly established U.S. office, the initial L-1 visa is granted for one year. The company must demonstrate growth and financial stability to extend the visa.

What are the benefits of an L-1 visa compared to other work visas?

Unlike the H-1B visa, the L-1 has no annual cap and does not require a labor condition application. It also offers dual intent, meaning the holder may pursue permanent residency while on an L-1 visa.

Speak With an Experienced Orlando L-1 Visa Lawyer Today

If your company is seeking to transfer key employees to the United States, or if you are a professional preparing for a new role in Orlando, working with a skilled immigration attorney is essential. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we provide the knowledge and legal support needed to successfully obtain L-1 visas for executives, managers, and specialized workers.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Orlando L-1 visa attorney and take the next step in your business expansion or career journey.