Can I change status from L-1 to H-1B if I find another employer?

Yes, it is possible to change status from L-1 to H-1B with another employer, as long as the new company is willing to sponsor the petition and you meet the H-1B requirements. Unlike the L-1, which originates from an intracompany transfer, the H-1B involves a new sponsorship and its own approval process.

In practice, the new employer files the petition with USCIS, demonstrating that the position qualifies as a specialty occupation and that you have the required qualifications. Depending on whether the role is subject to the H-1B annual cap, the petition may need to go through the lottery before moving forward.

• Requires an employer willing to sponsor the H-1B.
• It is a new process, not a simple extension of the L-1.
• May be subject to the lottery, depending on whether the role falls under the annual cap.

During the transition, maintaining valid legal status and respecting the process timelines is essential to protect your immigration history. Since requirements and timelines change, it is worth verifying the current rules with USCIS or a specialist before initiating the change.

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.