Are there nationality restrictions for the L-1?

No. The L-1 does not impose any nationality restrictions. Professionals from any country can be transferred from an overseas company to a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in the United States, as long as the relationship between the companies and the nature of the role meet the visa requirements.

What truly matters in the review is not the applicant’s origin, but the professional tie to the corporate group and the nature of the position held. The focus falls on points such as:

• The existence of a qualifying relationship between the foreign company and the U.S. entity.
• The performance of a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge function.
• A recent work history within the corporate group prior to the transfer.

Because each petition is evaluated individually by the competent authority and requirements may change, it is worth confirming the current requirements with USCIS or a specialist before filing, rather than relying on promises of guaranteed approval.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.