Frequently asked questions
Questions about L-1 Visa
Straight answers related to this visa.
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After 5 years on the L-1B, can I change to L-1A and stay 2 more?
It is possible to change from an L-1B visa to L-1A after 5 years, provided your functions qualify as executive or managerial, allowing an extension of stay by up to 2 years.
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After 7 years on an L-1A, how long must I stay outside to reset?
After seven years on the L-1A visa, it is recommended to stay outside the USA for at least one year to try to restart the eligibility period, always respecting current laws and case particularities.
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After receiving my passport with the L-1 visa, can I travel immediately?
After receiving the passport with a valid L-1 visa, it is generally possible to travel immediately, respecting the legislation and decisions of the immigration officer at entry.
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Am I required to have a lawyer?
It is not mandatory to have a lawyer for the L visa, but having a specialist increases the chances of success and avoids mistakes in the immigration process.
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Are clients of the foreign company relevant for the L-1?
Foreign clients help evidence commercial activity, but the essential aspects for the L-1 visa are corporate ties and proof of internal transfer within the multinational.
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Are medical exams mandatory for L-2 dependents?
Medical exams are not mandatory for L-2 dependents, but it is essential to follow official guidelines and avoid dubious solutions to ensure success in the process.
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Are shared offices accepted for ‘New Office’?
Shared offices may be accepted for ''New Office'', provided exclusivity and infrastructure are proven, with individual USCIS review and robust documentation.
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Are the interviews for the L-1 visa at the Brazilian consulate conducted in English or Portuguese?
Interviews for the L-1 visa in Brazil are generally conducted in Portuguese but may include English; prepare for both languages and always follow official guidance to avoid issues.
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Are there additional fees if the company has many L-1 or H-1B visa holders?
Companies with many employees on L-1 or H-1B visas may be subject to additional fees, according to US legislation, requiring attention and specialized guidance.
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Are there any restrictions on the L-1 visa during US elections?
US elections do not restrict the L-1 visa, but it is essential to follow official updates and strictly comply with immigration laws to ensure the success of the process.
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Are there different state taxes if I am on an L-1?
The L-1 visa does not alter state tax obligations in the US; taxes depend on the state where you reside and work, not on the type of visa.
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Are there hiring restrictions for foreigners in L-1 status?
The L-1 visa allows intra-company transfers, limiting work exclusively to the sponsoring company, and requires attention to changes to maintain immigration status.
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Are there L-2 renewal interviews?
Renewal of the L-2 visa may or may not require an interview, depending on the process and the authority reviewing the application; following official rules and specialized guidance is essential.
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Are there L-2 visa limits for each L-1 holder?
There is no fixed limit for L-2 visas per L-1 holder; eligible dependents can obtain the visa provided they meet the legal conditions in force in the USA.
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Are there minimum revenue requirements abroad for the L-1?
The L-1 visa does not require minimum revenue abroad but demands proof of real operations, a valid corporate relationship, and executive, managerial, or specialized roles.
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Are there nationality restrictions for the L-1?
The L-1 visa does not limit nationalities; the focus is on experience and professional ties. Legal compliance and consulting reliable sources are essential for safe approval.
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Are there processing priorities for L-1 visas based on certain nationalities?
There is no L-1 visa processing priority based on nationality; compliance with regulations and correct documentation are essential for successful processing.
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Are there questions about politics and religion in the DS-160?
The DS-160 does not directly ask about politics or religion but assesses security risks; transparency and truthfulness are essential for an approved visa.
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Are there reciprocity fees for the L-1?
The L-1 visa does not have reciprocity fees; its amount is fixed and standardized, making it essential to follow official regulations to ensure security and compliance in the process.
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Are there renewal interviews for the L-1 visa at the consulate?
The L-1 visa renewal interview can be waived, but it is essential to be prepared and keep documentation updated as per the consulate''s evaluation.